Historic day for progressive Mayo football club

By Patrick Hennelly

It was certainly a proud and historic occasion for Snugboro United F.C. today as the club officially opened their splendid new AstroTurf pitch at a sunny Conway Park.

There were plenty of activities throughout the day for members, their families and wider community, which included an under-11 blitz, face painting, sports games, with refreshments also being served.

Snugboro United treasurer Gerry McDonnell said that is it great that the club now has its own AstroTurf amenity.

“It is a great facility to have and this new addition is a 50m x 40m AstroTurf pitch and it was constructed last year.

"This 50m x 40m all-weather flood-lit pitch will be of immense benefit to our teams who want to train at night-time and this facility also has floodlights.

"There are 300 children playing football with the club and we are continuing to develop.

“Over the years and especially during wintertime, we had to rent other facilities for our teams to train, and thankfully we now have our own facility and have a bit of independence”.

The club will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year and the treasurer said that further development is planned for the venue which will benefit the community.

“We were formed in 1986, and this season has been the busiest for the club since its formation. We are going from strength to strength and that is pleasing.

"Our next major project will be to put a fully lit walkway around the main pitch.

"We have a lot of people who enjoy walking here, however, we need a floodlit walkway around our main pitch so that people can enjoy their walk in safety."

The official opening was performed by Stephen McDonnell, one of the founder members, along with Minister Alan Dillon (pictured).

Also in attendance were Councillor Ger Deere and Councillor Blackie Gavin.