Local Schools Compete in Sports Hall Athletics Competition

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council was delighted to welcome over 120 energetic pupils from schools across the council area to compete in the 2026 Sports Hall Athletics Competition at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Hosted in partnership with Athletics NI, the event brought together young athletes to test their speed, strength and teamwork in an action-packed programme. The day was packed with challenges, from the Medicine Ball Chest Push, Standing Long Jump, to the fast-paced Speed Bounce, Soft Javelin Throw, and Relay Races.

In the lead-up to the competition, each school benefited from expert coaching sessions delivered by Athletics NI, helping pupils sharpen their techniques and build confidence.

St. Joseph’s Primary School, Lisburn emerged as the overall champions. Friends’ Preparatory Department gave a strong performance to finish just behind in second place, while Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School proudly secured third.

Presenting the trophies, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee said, “The Sports Hall Athletics Competition is a fantastic event that brings pupils together to enjoy new sports while representing their school. While the trophies recognise great performances, the real purpose of the day lies in participation, teamwork and encouraging one another throughout the competition”.

Sport helps young people develop confidence, resilience and teamwork. These are skills that benefit them both in sport and in everyday life.

I would like to thank the Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Development Team and Athletics NI for organising the event, and all the schools for taking part.”

The schools that took part were in the Sports Halls Athletics included: Anahilt Primary School, Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School, Ballymacash Primary School, Forthill Primary School, Knockmore Primary School, Largymore Primary School, Maghaberry Primary School, Old Warren Primary School, Rowandale Integrated Primary School, St. Joseph’s Primary School, Friends and Wallace Preparatory Departments.

Pictured, winners of the Sports Hall Athletics Competition, St Joseph’s Primary School with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.

Second place, Friends’ Preparatory Department with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.

Third place, Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.