Billy Hearne remembered with renaming of De La Salle grounds

The late Billy Hearne was remembered with great fondness on Saturday after his beloved De La Salle re-named their grounds – Billy Hearne Park in an emotional unveiling by Billy’s wife, Joan.

Past and present members of the Williamstown club came together with representatives of the Waterford Schoolboy League and Waterford Junior League to remember a man who gave a lifetime of service to the club.

Joan was joined by Billy’s son Daniel, daughter Lydia, daughter-in-law Annalisa, son-in-law Shayne, and granddaughter Giulietta for the unveiling of Billy Hearne Park with club chairman David Ahearne.

In his speech, David said: “What an incredible day this is for De La Salle FC. Looking out at all your faces – players, coaches, parents, supporters, and friends – I'm filled with immense pride and gratitude.

“Today, we're not just celebrating a milestone; we're celebrating five decades of passion, dedication, and community spirit that have built this club into what it is today.

“Fifty years ago, a group of individuals had a vision: to create a football club that would serve our community, foster talent, and instill values that extend far beyond the pitch. From humble beginnings, De La Salle FC has grown, evolved, and become a cornerstone of Waterford football.

“We've seen countless matches, celebrated unforgettable victories, and learned valuable lessons from every challenge. To every player who has ever worn our red and white colours, every coach who has guided our teams, every volunteer who has given their time, and every supporter who has cheered us on – thank you. You are the heart and soul of this club.” Remembering Billy Hearne, David said: “Finally, we come to a moment that is both poignant and deeply meaningful. As many of you know, last year we lost a true giant of De La Salle FC, Billy Hearne.

“Billy was more than just a player or a supporter; he was the embodiment of everything great about this club. His dedication, his unwavering spirit, his infectious enthusiasm, and his incredible kindness touched so many lives within our De La Salle family.

“He truly lived and breathed De La Salle. It is with a heavy heart, but also with immense pride and respect, that we today officially rename our main football pitch the Billy Hearne Park.

“From this day forward, every time a ball is kicked on this hallowed ground, every cheer, every victory, and every lesson learned will be a tribute to Billy's enduring legacy. It's a fitting memorial to a man who gave so much to our club, and whose memory will continue to inspire us all.” Looking to the future, David added: “As we look ahead, the future of De La Salle FC is incredibly bright. With our rich history, fantastic new facilities, and the spirit of individuals like Billy Hearne forever embedded in our club, we are poised for even greater things.

“Let us continue to work together, play together, and support each other, ensuring that De La Salle FC remains a place where dreams are forged, friendships are made, and the love of football thrives for another fifty years and beyond.”