Darragh's Soapbox: The importance of sport in Waterford

The vital role of sport in Waterford was highlighted last week during the fiftieth anniversary celebrations of De La Salle FC.

During the unveiling of the club's new astro turf training facility, there was a reminder of the invaluable place that sports clubs hold within the local community.

Club members, politicians and representatives from national sporting bodies spoke about the importance of sport during the event.

Minister Mary Butler highlighted to us how sport impacts the community.

"I've always been involved in sport myself and I do believe it's brilliant for your mental wellbeing and it's really good for young children to be involved in," she said. 

"There's a huge amount of people from different areas involved, some more deprived than others, and when you come to play sport you can put all that aside.

"I'm a real believer in community and the fact that all the volunteers who put their life and souls into clubs all across the country. You wouldn’t have a Saturday morning like this without the parents and without the community ethos."

FAI President Paul Cooke, a former De La Salle FC player, added, “Volunteers are the heartbeat of everything and I encourage people to get involved. Sport delivers for the county and country and it makes people feel better."

Meanwhile, De La Salle FC Chairman, David Ahearne, said that the availability of sporting facilities in the community is invaluable.

“This is a landmark moment, not just because of the facility we now stand beside, but because of what it represents. 

"50 years of dedication, teamwork, community spirit and the relentless drive to improve the sporting lives of those who wear the red and white of De La Salle.

“The Williamstown complex here is more than just a football ground, it is a cross-sporting facility, open to and shared by a wide variety of users in the community.”