New all-weather pitch officially opens at Swords Celtic FC

Swords Celtic FC celebrated the official opening of its new 11-a-side all-weather pitch on Saturday, 3 October, marking a major milestone for the club and the wider Swords community. The new pitch, delivered through joint funding from Fingal County Council and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport under the Community Sports Facilities Fund, will support year-round training and matches and create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy football.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr.Tony Murphy, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the club, joined by Swords Celtic Chairperson Frank Kilbride, Fingal County Council Chief Executive AnnMarie Farrelly, Minister Darragh O’Brien, local Councillors,club members, players, parents, volunteers and community stakeholders.

Speaking at the opening, the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr.Tony Murphy said: “Swords Celtic has a proud history of developing players while fostering a welcoming and inclusive club culture. Its success is built on the dedication of volunteers, coaches, committee members and supporters who give their time to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Every journey starts somewhere and, for many, it starts on pitches like this. So, to the young players here today, this pitch belongs to you. It will be a place to develop your skills, build friendships, create lasting memories and, I hope, inspire you to keep aiming high”.

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly said; “I’d like to acknowledge the vision, leadership and determination of Swords Celtic. The commitment of the committee, volunteers and members has been central to bringing this project from ambition to reality. I also want to recognise the dedication of the Council’s Sports Office team and Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel & Sport Dave Storey, whose support, expertise and collaboration have continued to help clubs across Fingal to develop facilities such as this and create more opportunities for people to participate in sport and physical activity”.

The event concluded with photographs and an opportunity for club members and supporters to celebrate together.

Minister for Transport & Minister for Climate, Energy, and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien added: “This new all-weather pitch is a significant investment in the future of sport in Swords and a fantastic example of what can be achieved through partnership between local and national government and dedicated community organisations. I want to congratulate everyone involved in Swords Celtic for their commitment and ambition in bringing this project to fruition, and I have no doubt this pitch will serve the club and the wider community for many years to come.”