SLIGO ROVERS HAVE received a substantial boost, with news confirmed today that they will receive a Sports Capital Grant of €295,000.
Speaking following the announcement, club chairman Dermot Kelly said the grant was “a potential game-changer in the history of the club”.
He added: “The funding comes at a vital time and caps what has probably been the best year on and off the field in the history of Sligo Rovers because the club can now make solid medium and long-term plans.”
The funds will allow the club to refurbish the all-weather facility at the Showgrounds, as well as installing a new grass training pitch there.
“The work will be completed within months and when it is done, the Showgrounds will have infrastructure and facilities, including the new €250,000 Railway End stand to allow Sligo Rovers function and develop as a model community-based club for many years.”
Kelly also paid tribute to Sligo’s supporters, indicating that they had a significant influence on the decision to make the funds available for the club.
“The Minister for Sport, Michael Ring, visited the Showgrounds for a number of high-octane games and witnessed the passion the club generates in all corners of the region.
“Tony Mc Loughlin, a founding member of the club’s development committee, backed our application and the active support from all his fellow Oireachtas members, TD’s Minister John Perry, and Michael Colreavy, and Senators Imelda Henry, Susan O’ Keeffe, Marc Mc Sharry, Paschal Mooney and Michael Comiskey also helped our case.”
