Union Dinner 2010

Over 300 pastmen, teachers (past and present), members of the Vincentian community and guests attended the magnificent new Aviva Stadium on Saturday 16th October for the Annual Union Dinner. After a slightly delayed start, thanked primarily to people watching Leinster’s great victory over Saracens, the evening commenced with an update from the President of the College, Fr. Slevin on the college and the current pupils’ achievements. This was followed with a presentation on behalf of the pastmen to the men behind the Rugby Supporters Club, John Lombard and Kevin McGowan, and by the class of 1983 to the coach, Ron McCarten. By the level of noise in the room, everyone was clearly enjoying the opportunity to chat and catch up with friends and classmates. Guests were royally entertained by the former Lansdowne, Leinster and Ireland international star, Mick Quinn, who also enjoyed a very successful coaching spell for over 11 years with the SCT along with his brother Charlie who was in attendance.

Finally, there was a presentation to the Pastman of the Year, the current Attorney General Mr. Paul Gallagher SC, who spoke fondly of his time in Castleknock and the very important influence that the Vincentian education had on him and on all of the pastmen. After the meal, there was still time to catch up and some of the guests carried on the party late into the night in the resident's bar at the Mount Herbert Hotel where a large number of pastmen were staying. Many thanks to David Bell and the Committee for their hard work in organising a great event, and particularly to Rita Coyle who as always had the onerous task of organising the tables and dealing with the multitude of queries right up to the Saturday evening!

Finally, the Committee wish to acknowledge the generousity of BNP Paribas Real Estate for sponsoring this year's Union Dinner.