As if they hadn’t already announced themselves to the school community, Elements certainly made themselves known with a bang last weekend. Following an impressive introduction to the Clongowes rugby field, the boys gathered outside the refectory to be directed by the whistles of the Ma Samba School instructors.
Armed with instruments such as agogô bells, snares, shakers and tamborims the boys attempted to replicate the rhythmic sounds demonstrated by the group leaders. Unsurprisingly, everyone took to their respective roles with gusto, making as much noise as could ever be permitted in the school. It was obvious that the boys enjoyed their afternoon, while the rest of the community was able to enjoy an impromptu samba session as they sat down to their evening meal.
A well-deserved barbecue, laid on by the Houseleaders, duly followed before the Third Line Spiritual Father, Fr. Michael Sheil SJ, took over the reins and gave the boys an insight into the history of the school, including a tour of the famous castle.
Before it was time to retire indoors there was yet another treat in store for Elements. Settling into the evening with hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows the boys looked on in awe as the Houseleaders rattled out old Clongowes favourites such as the ‘Womba’ – more of that to follow in the Spring…
All in all it was a day to be remembered by the latest crop of Clongownians.
Richard McElwee
