50 years of Waterford's De La Salle FC celebrated with new astro turf unveiling
Unveiling the new astro turf pitch at De La Salle FC. Photo: Waterford In Your Pocket
On their fiftieth anniversary year, De La Salle Football Club last week unveiled their state-of-the-art new astro turf training facility.
It was a day of high spirits, as coaches, volunteers, parents and players gathered to grace the new pitch for the first time at the club’s ground at the Williamstown Sports Complex.
The event was also attended by FAI President Paul Cooke, who is a former De La Salle FC player, Minister Mary Butler, and local councillors David Daniels, Adam Wyse and Eamon Quinlan.
Adding to the celebrations on the day, Davy Cullen and Mary Ray from the Waterford Schoolboy League presented the Under-12 boys team their trophy for winning the league two weeks ago in Tramore.
Club Chairman, David Ahearne described the new pitch as a “truly historic” moment for the club and complimented everyone involved in its procurement.
He said, “I must take a moment to acknowledge the incredible effort of our club committee, who worked tirelessly to bring this idea to life, and no one more so than Darren Doyle, who led the project with energy, passion and an unwavering belief in what we could achieve.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we also pause to remember those we have lost along the way. Two names stand out today, Eoin Burke and Billy Hearne, whose influence, passion and contributions were pivotal in building De La Salle FC into the club it is today. Their legacy lives on in every player who steps out on this pitch."
Speaking with the Waterford News & Star on the day, Minister Mary Butler complimented the club for their fifty years of success in Waterford.
“It’s some testament to all the volunteers that have come and lined pitches, been there to train the boys and girls, and who have been here in the wet and sunny weather. They have made De La Salle football club what it is."
