Alumni
The Blackrock College Union represents former students of the college, organises many charitable events throughout the year, assists the school, e.g. mentoring, management assistance, advice etc. and organises social events for members. There are branches in Ireland and across the world.
Blackrock's large enrolment and high standards have produced many distinguished alumni through its long history. Early Free State ministers such as Art O'Connor (Secretary for Agriculture 1921-1922), and Éamon de Valera, six times Taoiseach and the 3rd President of Ireland, studied and later taught in Blackrock. Modern politicians include Barry Andrews T.D., a junior Minister.
Flann O'Brien, the eminent writer (real name: Brian O'Nolan) and Tim Pat Coogan, the journalist and scholar, were students of the school. Alumni in the fine arts include designer Paul Costelloe, composer Michael McGlynn and visual artist Robert Ballagh. The Holy Ghost Order has a long tradition of missionaries. Frank Duff, founder of the Legion of Mary, is perhaps the best-known. Singer, songwriter, author, political activist and KBE Bob Geldof was also a student at the College. Eminent handbag designer Pauric Sweeney also calls Blackrock his alma mater.
The college places a heavy emphasis on sport, particularly rugby. The current Ireland international team includes Brian O'Driscoll and the captain Luke Fitzgerald, who both first chased the oval ball in Williamstown. In living memory are Victor Costello, a 20 year Leinster, Ireland and Blackrock R.F.C. veteran, who also put the shot for Ireland at the Olympics, Leo Cullen, currently captain of the Leinster team and Shane Byrne, Leinster and Ireland professional rugby player.
In other games, Michael Cusack, founder of the Gaelic Athletic Association taught at the school, and played early forms of hurling with the pupils.
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