Your Story, Our History: Londonderry YMCA

Kris Dunn’s connection to the Londonderry YMCA began in 1983, standing in a field as a primary school student for the building's opening ceremonies. In this episode, Kris reflects on a lifetime spent at Drumahoe—from helping his mother with hostel breakfasts to his 20-year career on the rugby pitch. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of the rugby club’s rise toward the All-Ireland leagues, the influence of international guest coaches, and the "unconventional" training methods of Willie Lamrock.Now a long-standing member of the Board of Directors, Kris discusses the complexities of keeping a historic organisation running, from funding challenges to the importance of retaining good people. He reflects on the skills he’s gained in the boardroom, particularly the ability to see the world through others' eyes. Ultimately, Kris defines the YMCA not by its buildings or individual projects, but by its enduring "family ethos"—a thread that has been woven through his life and the community for over 169 years.

Rhianna Hegarty represents the new generation of leadership at Londonderry YMCA. In this episode, Rhianna shares how a simple invitation to join the youth club in Currynierin transformed her life path. From trainee to professional youth worker on the E2T programme, she reflects on how the YMCA provided the opportunities she needed to turn a passion into a career.Rhianna discusses the importance of building relationships and trust with young people, ensuring they know they always have someone in their corner. She describes the YMCA as a "warm place" that brings joy to the community—a place people choose to be. With a mantra of "don't give up, keep trying," Rhianna’s story is an inspiring look at how the YMCA continues to nurture and empower the youth of today.

Gillian Simpson has been part of the YMCA for four decades. In this episode, she reflects on her lifelong connection to Drumahoe, beginning with her parents, Pat and Willie Lamrock. Gillian shares nostalgic memories of beetle drives, fundraisers, and the excitement of the disco era—including the time she joined the staff for dinner with a visiting actor from the soap Neighbours.Now a member of the Board of Directors, Gillian discusses the transition from youth worker to strategic leader, the challenges of securing funding, and how her confidence has grown over the years. She speaks fondly of her father’s ethos—that you must give back to your community—and reflects on his "big vision" in establishing the Drumahoe site. It’s a story about family legacy and the magnetic pull of an organisation that, as Gillian says, is "not easy to leave."

In this episode, we introduce the School of Sport, a landmark cross-community project from the 1990s. Annette Taylor, who started her journey with the project as a 16-year-old assistant coach, reflects on how the program used sports like hockey and football to bridge the city's divide. She shares the pride of watching young people develop new skills before celebrating their achievements at the final festival days.Beyond the sidelines, Annette shares a whirlwind of memories from across the YMCA—from being a bouncer at the Infinity discos and working in the hostel, to serving soup at the "Pit Stop" kitchen. She even takes us back to her star turn as the Fairy Godmother in the Cinderella play. Reflecting on these varied roles, Annette explains how the training and confidence she gained at Drumahoe eventually shaped her career as a children's entertainer. It’s a heartfelt look at her belief that "sports unite people" and how the YMCA family prepares you for a life full of possibilities.

In this episode, we go back to the very beginning of the Londonderry YMCA Rugby Club with its first-ever captain, Eddie Nutter. Eddie shares how the club was formed to meet the growing demand for rugby in the city and the immense responsibility of leading a brand-new team—from selection and fixtures to building a squad from the ground up.Eddie reflects on what truly makes a great player and how his leadership role taught him the art of communication and assessing character. He takes us to the "pinnacle" of his career—the cup final at Ravenhill—and tells the unique story of "Stan Huey’s Boots," a trophy he personally crafted for local matches. It’s a story of sport, leadership, and how the drive of its members made the Londonderry YMCA a recognised name in rugby across the nine counties.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Johnston, whose 30-year journey with the YMCA has seen him move from the rugby pitch to the Board of Directors. Adrian shares the fascinating story of the "Infinity Project," a groundbreaking initiative where he served as Chair, helping young people take the lead to host massive discos that drew huge crowds and top DJs.Beyond the events, Adrian reflects deeply on the community ethos of the YMCA and how his experiences at Drumahoe truly shaped the person he is today. He also discusses the vital role of mentorship, particularly his relationship with Willie Lamrock, sharing the powerful lesson: "Have trust in the person who sees something in you." It is an inspiring conversation about leadership, the importance of belonging, and trusting the next generation.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In this episode, we are revisiting the Youth Club through a conversation with Louise, Melissa, and Shanagh. All three started their journey at the YMCA as volunteers and junior leaders, eventually progressing into professional roles within the staff team.They reflect on how the "YMCA family" bond stays with you no matter where your career takes you, and discuss the joy of meeting former club members years later who are still excited to see them. The trio also offers a heartfelt thank you to Willie, Lisa, and Catriona for the years of nurturing and support that helped them find their feet. It’s a story about growing up at Drumahoe and the lasting impact of having the right mentors in your corner.Apologies for the poorer audio quality. We had some issues with the equipment!This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In this episode, we are revisiting the YMCA Drama Group in a conversation with the man who led it all. John Magowan oversaw a special era from 1996 to 2001, where a simple taster session blossomed into a Wednesday night staple at Drumahoe—so popular that it often carried a waiting list.John reflects on the creative energy of the group, from the challenge of "three props in a box" to the confidence built through three annual performances. He also shares his personal perspective on the power of the arts, including his unique tradition of the "imaginary bag", where members left their worries at the door. It is a heartfelt look at a five-year window where drama provided a life-changing space for many, offering a second family and a vital creative outlet for the mind.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players!

In this episode, we sit down with Ivan, a man whose life was intertwined with the YMCA Rugby Club for over 20 years. Ivan takes us on the journey of a club that rose through the leagues on a foundation of pure grit and "all-weather" dedication. He reflects on the motivating force of the late Willie Lamrock and the unshakeable ethos of looking out for one another.From the highs of the club being the "lynchpin" of the Drumahoe community to the devastating 2017 flood that "ripped the heart out" of the site, Ivan’s story is a moving tribute to the power of team sports and the lifelong memories made. As he puts it: "I’d go back tomorrow and do it all again."This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players!

Released on International Women’s Day, this episode celebrates the leadership and legacy of the women at the heart of Londonderry YMCA. Catriona Coyle, our Youth Work Manager, sits down to share her journey through years of life-changing projects. From the impact of the TBUC programmes and the excitement of St. Patrick’s Day parades to the messy fun of the foam pit at Summer Fundays, Catriona reflects on the vibrant life of the youth club.Catriona also speaks warmly about her close friendship with General Secretary Lisa Dunn—highlighting how two strong women now lead the organisation forward—and pays a moving tribute to the late Willie Lamrock, whose person and ethos continue to inspire her work every day.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players!

In our fourth episode, we sit down with our General Secretary, Lisa Dunn.Having been part of the organisation for over twenty years, Lisa shares the stories that have defined her time at the YMCA. From the profound impact of the late Willie Lamrock on her life and the organisation, to the laughs behind the infamous "canoe race incident," Lisa reflects on the unique community bond found at Londonderry YMCA.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players!

In our third episode, we are joined by Gemma, a member of the Drama Group! Gemma tells us all about the joys of performing, being part of the productions, and the impact being part of the group had on her life.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In our second episode were are joined by Keith, a founding member of the YMCA Rugby Club. Keith takes us back to the beginning, telling us about how the club was first established, the challenges and its community ethos.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In our first episode, we turn the microphone on one of the people behind the project. Catherine, our Project Coordinator, shares her own memories of life at Londonderry YMCA.From her beginnings volunteering at the Youth Club to her work now in the Heritage Project, uncovering 170 years of history, Catherine reflects on what makes Londonderry YMCA such a special place for the community. This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

What does it mean to be part of a community for 170 years? In this special trailer, Project Coordinator Catherine and Archivist Hannah introduce you to the voices of Londonderry YMCA. From the muddy glory of the rugby pitch and the electric energy of the drama stage to the life-changing impact of our youth clubs, these are the stories that don't always make it into the history books.Featured in this trailer:Memories of the very first days of the YMCA Rugby Club.The "packed-out" buzz of the YMCA Drama shows.Reflections on the YMCA as a "safe space" for youth to grow, learn, and find their voice.Subscribe now and join us for the full series as we celebrate our heritage and the people who made it.This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!