08 April 2010
Saturday 10th April 2010 is another memorable date for the progressive St Mary’s GAC Ahoghill club. They will officially open their new sand-based floodlit playing field. The half million pound SOLAS (Gaelic for light) project received substantial funding from Sport Northern Ireland and Ballymena Borough Council.
One of the club’s objectives in their 2008-2013 Sports Development Plan was to construct a pitch that will increase participation and extend the playing season. Another objective is having the ability to host games and training at night. Saturday 10th April sees these objectives realised.
This development is also unique as it will be the first floodlit Gaelic facility for the four Gaelic clubs situated within the Borough. This project will be available to those clubs as well as to local schools for hire.
Chairperson for St Mary’s Ahoghill, Neil O’Connell said, “We are grateful to Sport Northern Ireland and Ballymena Borough Council for sharing our vision in supporting the SOLAS project. This financial assistance matches our dedication and commitment to increasing participation in sport and Gaelic games in the area.”
Mr O’Connell also praised the efforts of volunteers from within St Mary’s GAC Ahoghill who raised the remainder from ticket sales and other fundraisers.
The proceedings commence at 12 noon with an Ulster Minor Football League game against Tyrone. Incidentally Ahoghill Vice-Chairperson, Danny O’Neill, manages the Antrim minor footballers. The official opening ceremony will commence at 3.30 pm sharp presided over by Uachtarán CLG Christy Cooney. Hurling, camogie and football games will follow against Rasharkin, Newbridge and Moneyglass respectively. The event will conclude with dancing to County Down’s Darragh Folk in the ACORN Centre.
Admission for the day is £5, including buffet and entertainment.
St Mary’s GAC Ahoghill extends a warm welcome to everyone for what should be another memorable event in the club’s history.
