FAI boss to open park in memory of the late Abbie
THE OFFICIAL opening of Kilmore United’s club facilities, which takes place this Sunday, will be a poignant occasion as the club will remember the late Abbie Troy, naming the park in her memory.
Abbie Troy Park will be officially opened by FAI CEO John Delaney at 3.30 p.m., following the inaugural Abbie Troy soccer tournament which starts at noon.
15-year-old Abbie passed away in February 2016 following an illness. The talented young sports star was playing with both the adult and under-age team in the club, and was extremely popular with friends and teammates. Sadly, tragedy visited the Troy family again in 2017 when Abbie’s father Tom passed away.
A plaque with Abbie’s name, and a picture collage will be unveiled on the day in the clubhouse.
Club secretary Brian Furlong said the opening would be a poignant day of celebration and paying tribute to Abbie.
‘At the time of Abbie’s passing, we were going through the planning process for the clubhouse; we asked the Troy family if we could call the park after her and they agreed. She was an excellent player and was playing at the top level in the club. It will be an emotional day for her family, friends, teammates and all who knew her.’
He added that Abbie had been part of an U14 team that had won a league and cup double, something that was rare for country clubs.
The club, he pointed out, was also celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2018.
The Abbie Troy tournament, he said, was something they would run every year and the perpetual trophy was sponsored by Kooline Freight Services, a company Abbie’s father Tom had been a director of.
The trophy will be presented by Elaine Troy, Abbie’s mother.
Brian added: ‘We felt this was the best way to commemorate a very talented sports star. We hope that the club will bring the whole community together, especially for this particular day.’
Events kick off at noon with the Abbie Troy soccer tournament, to be followed by the official opening at 3.30 p.m. All are welcome to attend.