Westport United’s new facilities officially opened

THE official opening of Westport United’s state-of-the-art facilities has been hailed as a ‘bright new dawn’ for the oldest soccer club in Mayo.

On Sunday afternoon, a large crowd gathered in United Park as a memorable day went down in many people’s records. It was the official opening of phase two, which includes a full-size astroturf pitch, a full-size grass pitch and two multi-use astro areas, with all pitches being provided with floodlights, which ensures year-round use.

Local priest, Father John Kenny opened proceedings with a blessing of the grounds as he remarked about the terrible weather on the day. “Can you do anything about the weather Father Kenny? That’s a higher management vision, not mine,” he laughed as the rain belted down, but that wasn’t going to dampen the spirits of all present. 

_{Players of the future celebrating on the new full-size astro playing pitch at the opening of Phase 2 of the development at United Park. Pic: Frank Dolan.}

Current chairperson of the club, Richard Grady also touched on the weather. “Sorry we can’t sort the weather. We’ll have to talk to Michael Ring about that.” Richard gave a special mention to the town and the community as he said: “A special thanks must go to our own town and community, who encourage us, support us and back us every day in every venture we undertake”. 

The Chairman of the development committee, Brian Cusack recalled the past when he explained: “Back in 2005 when we won the junior cup, we didn’t even have a clubhouse or a trophy cabinet, we’ve come a long, long way since.” 

FAI President, Paul Cooke made the journey from Waterford for the special occasion. He touched on the facilities and how influential the politicians have been. “This is a template for what all facilities should look like. It`s a case here where politicians have delivered.” 

As the rain continued to crash down, umbrellas were a lost cause for many as the wind was simply too much. 
Former player and club official, Michael Ring TD then addressed the gathering. “I didn’t think this day would ever come,” he proudly stated. He thanked all who had worked so hard for the club over the years and all who “tortured him over the years in relation to this development,” before looking towards the future. 

“Now we have great players, fantastic young people coming forward and I have no doubt that in a few years time this club will be in the League of Ireland because that’s where it should be. When we look around here today, it’s not about facilities for people like me, it's for young people to give then a chance and an opportunity.

“I am so proud to be here today. I am so proud of Westport United and I’m so proud of everybody that put work into this over the last 20 years because it has taken that length to get these facilities in place.”