year, selected students are given awards for their Transition Year performances, including a Student of the Year award, Endeavour award, Maturity award and individual activity awards such as Cookery and Rugby. Sports The college has 11 acres of playing fields located in the school grounds, including two grass pitches and the basketball and "tennis court" located adjacent to the main complex. The school places emphasis on rugby union and hurling, but also encourages other sports including athletics, golf, handball, and equestrian sports. The college's many teams and clubs include the hurling team, the rugby team, an equestrian club, golf club, basketball team, and football team. Activism The college is recognised by Irish international charity, Bóthar, for its annual contribution to the organisation, usually connected with the work committed by students during the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme, which is a highly emphasised and encouraged outlet in the college. The school has had numerous visits from local politicians as part of its Civic, Social and Political Education Oireachtas Education Programme. John McGuinness, TD, Phil Hogan, TD, Mary White (Green Party politician), TD, Bobby Aylward, TD and Senator John Paul Phelan engaged in discussion and debate with the students on political and citizenship issues. An Adult Education programme is held in the school building. Facilities The extension and rebuilding of three classrooms was completed in early May 2011. The present art room was refurbished during the 2006-2007 school year and this room was dedicated to past pupil and famous Irish artist, Tony O'Malley. Notable alumni Bill Britton, hammer thrower Noel Hickey, Kilkenny senior hurler Canice Hickey, brother of Noel, also senior hurler for Kilkenny Larry McCarthy, 40th GAA president Tony O'Malley, artist. References External links Coláiste Éamann Rís - Official Website Congregation of Christian Brothers secondary schools in the Republic of Ireland Secondary schools in County Kilkenny 1868 establishments in Ireland Educational institutions established in 1868 Callan, County Kilkenny