Fr. Michael Sweeney, assisted by Pauline Strain, turns the first sod to commemorate the start of the laying of a new playing surface at Donegal Junior League heqdquarters at Diamond Park, Ballyare. Included are Joe Duffy, Eunan Doherty, Dessie Kelly, William Coyle, John Joe Mc Cafferty, Terry Leyden, Colm Rodgers and Nigel Ferry. William Coyle of Pitch Dimensions will commence works on site tomorrow, Tuesday 7th June 2016. Pic.: Gary Foy, League PRO
Members of Donegal Junior League committees past and present gathered at Diamond Park, Ballyare yesterday to commemorate the start of major upgrading works at the League’s headquarters.
MC Nigel Ferry welcomed everyone and gave a brief outline of what the future holds for the League.
He then introduced Fr. Michael Sweeney who recalled many days of graft and dealing to bring the League to where it was in a position to purchase Diamond Park, a feat he personally accomplished for the sum of 9,000 punts with the final deal been struck at a mart in Falcarragh.
He recalled many memories from the past and had great pleasure in commending Richie Kelly who organised the first dressing rooms at the venue.
Dessie Kelly also spoke of the years that he was involved on the executive and said he looks forward to visiting Ballyare regularly to watch the new works progress stating that he has a special place in his heart for the League and Diamond Park.
League Chairman John Joe McCafferty thanked everyone for attending and wished William Coyle the best of luck with the works.
Fr. Sweeney proceeded to bless the pitch before everyone returned to the clubhouse for a cup of tea and a chat where many episodes from through the years were recalled.
It is over to Pitch Dimensions for now and we look forward to seeing the works evolve.
William Coyle of Pitch Dimensions and Eunan Doherty discuss the laying of the new playing surface at Diamond Park, Ballyare. Pic.: Gary Foy, League PRO
