St Nicholas GFC celebrate 40 years 1977-2017
THEY say “life begins at 40” and this sentiment is certainly true for localSt.Nicholas GFC as the club celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2017.It was from humble beginnings in 1977 that a new club was formed in the Ballsgrove area and four decades of hard work have built on the initial efforts of members like Jimmy Pentony,Gerry McKeown,John Caffrey and many many others too numerous to mention.All have dedicated time and effort-and often blood sweat and tears to create the fine sporting facility located on the Rathmullen Rd,Drogheda.A special word of thanks goes to the one and only Felix Hackett for all his help and support down the years.
The last decade has seen a major redevelopment of Jimmy Pentony Park,with efforts continuing over the Winter months as the club built a fully equipped gym for use by its teams and members and also the construction of a walkway which is used by members ,supporters and parents to exercise in a safe environment throughout the year.The club has also recently received planning permission for a 2nd storey extension to the existing changing rooms.Work is also due to commence later this year on an all weather pitch which will be completed in 2018.
On the field,the youth section continues to flourish and grow with ever increasing numbers joining in the club’s nursery and youth.The fruits of a youth development plan 5 years ago is now been seen with teams moving up the divisions and underage teams now competing in Division 1 of the county leagues.Another obvious result of these efforts is the presence of St.Nicholas players on Louth Minor and Youth Development squads.The adult team are now residing in Division 4 and adjusting to life in the new context of league football in Louth.They are in preparation for the Junior championship where they will take on Naomh Malachi and Glyde Rangers in the coming weeks.
This Summer the club is also planning a number of events to mark the milestone of their 40th anniversary and at the same time support a number of local causes.A tournament is planned in remembrance of youth player,Daniel Roche,who tragically passed away last summer and the weekend of events will also seea sponsored walk and club social.
Underage training takes place on Wednesdays from 6.30pm8.30pm,while adults have training on 2 nights-Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7.30pm onwards.All are welcome.
So at its 40th anniversary arrives,St Nicholas GFC can look back with pride at its efforts to establish a Gaelic Football club in what was a growing area of Drogheda in the late 1970s.As the area continues to grow and develop,the club looks forward with confidence as it develops a sporting facility and community spirit to progress and thrive into the next 40 years.
St.Nicholas GFC would like to take this opportunity to thank their many sponsors throughout the years.Without your support and the continued support from our loyal supporters we could not possibly provide the facilities at the club.