St Ultan’s GFC turned the soil at their famous Thomas Coogan Park pitch in Martry this week. The sod turning marks the start of an ambitious new era for the club. The new development will include:
· A new main pitch
· New training pitch and lights
· Community walkway with fencing around the pitch
· Car park extension
Speaking at the launch club Chairperson, Tony Casserly, said, “Martry is one of the oldest pitches in Meath that’s still in use. Come down to Martry any evening and you’ll see either our adult teams, our ladies’ teams or multiple underage teams boys and girls using it. This new development will safeguard our future and guarantee that our club can facilitate footballers in the locality for years to come.”
Starting this project has only been made possible due to the recent Sports Capital Grant secured by the club, plus the strong financial footing the club is in from their successful club blotto.
However, these funds won’t be enough to cover the cost of this once in a lifetime plan. The club will be offering people the opportunity to donate through:
· Interest free loans, and
o Minimum €1000, paid back over 4 years.
· Lifetime membership
o €1000, includes use of all our facilities: community walkway, our gym, voting rights at club AGMs and entry into All-Ireland Final ticket draws.
Speaking at the event, Club Treasurer & member of the St. Ultans Martry project team, Tomás Coyne said, “We’re appealing to the generosity of the people in the parish. This project will benefit the whole community. The facilities, track and pitch will be used not only for people now but for generations to come. Anyone who contributes to this project will be investing in their localities’ future.”
The impressive new design and development will take nearly two years to complete and has been broken down into three phases. The first of those phases began this week with the pitch totally out of commission now until early 2025. The contractor conducting the work is Tony Pender of Penturf Ltd. Tony has a depth of knowledge and experience in completing such projects around the country.
The development of Martry along with the pitch, gym and astro pitch in Sean Newman Park will provide the very best of facilities to future generations.
The club were delighted to host local TD Damien English and Meath Senator Shane Cassells at our sod turning event. Both, as well as TD Johnny Guirke and local Cllr Mike Bray, have been a huge support to the club regarding applications for grants and funding.
To keep up to date with the project follow the club social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Or visit our website, http://www.stultansgaa.com/
If you wish to contact the club regarding a financial contribution, please see contact details below:
Tony Casserly 087 2561377 Tomas Coyne 087 7403687
James Brennan 086 8113349 Dermot Martin 085 2663095
Peter Marley 086 8259519 Mattie Rogers 087 6480634