On a balmy summer's morning in late June 2013 4 young men, Arthur Purcell, Eoghan O Donnell, Ryan Clarke and Jay Gibbons from the Woodale project along with Blayds and John (Youth Workers) headed towards the sunny south east to participate in the Irish Youth Justice Camp Diversion project.

This year's camp diversion was held in New Ross, Co Wexford as they were the reigning champions and therefore had the honour of hosting this year's event. Along with the Woodale Project, 14 other Youth Justice Projects, from all over Ireland, entered this three day event, all with the hopes of taking home the prize!

During the three days each team had to complete a serious of challenges such as obstacle courses, golf, kayaking, high ropes and archery to name but a few. Teams were also scored by secret judges for their attitudes, behaviour and how they mixed with other groups and leaders.

Our lads were off to a flyer by helping other teams set up tents and camps. They also took the first event of the sea race by storm and the rest of the activities they gave it their all. By the end of the two days of competing Blayds and John were as proud of the lads as they gave it their all and the feedback from other Youth Workers about the four lads was so warm and positive.

That said, nothing prepared them for when the prizes were given out. We were down to the last three and John kept saying to the lads that it was some achievement to make to the top three. Then they gave out third prize, we waited...then they announced the runner up and the look of confusion on the Woodale lad’s faces when they wondered why their name hadn't been called out.

It was only when Blayds let a big cheer out that they realised that the Woodale team had won Camp Diversion 2013 at the first time of participating. Cups and plaques were received as well as special mention of our lad’s great attitude and the respect they showed throughout the event from the guest speaker, local business man Mr Larry Byrne.

Blayds and John and all the staff at Sphere17 and Woodale would like to congratulate the four lads on their success and remind them that their input will be crucial when we host Camp Diversion 2014!!

Pictured: John Moloney, Arthur Purcell, Eoghan O Donnell, Ryan Clarke, Jay Gibbons, Stephen Blayds