The introduction of international rugby and soccer to Croke Park was
initially met with a hostile reaction from elements within Ulster.
There were justifiable fears expressed in many quarters that this could have
proven the precursor to what was referred to as a takeover of grounds for
other sports.
In the event, nothing like this has happened nor will happen.
In fact, the GAA's own structures have if anything been solidified by the
decision to extend the hand of friendship to soccer and rugby.
Antrim have become one of the latest counties to benefit from the huge
income that has already been derived from international sport at Croke park
via funding for their proposed Centre of Excellence at Dunsilly, just
outside Antrim town.
The complex is expected to cost some £8m overall and part of the funding
comes from the Strategic Investment Fund which has its source in Croke Park.
Not only will the Antrim complex prove the nerve centre for all county
activity but it will also become the new home for the local St Comgall's
club.
Club Aontroma have already handed over £50,000 towards the project and more
grants are expected to be forthcoming.
The centre will comprise three full-size grass pitches as well as two 3G
astro-turf pitches, one full-size and one juvenile one, meaning that matches
can be played irrespective of the weather.
Antrim county board chairman John McSparran has confirmed that work should
start later this year assuming that planning permission is granted.
"I am delighted with the progress to date and I can confirm that every
single penny raised will go to the Centre of Excellence and will not be used
for any other purpose. We would like everyone with the best interests of
Antrum at heart to ensure the success of this Centre of Excellence,"
said McSparran.
Not so very long ago Antrim launched their five-year Strategic Plan and now
confirmation of the new Centre of Excellence is another major step forward
for the county board.
"There is a lot of hard graft ahead for all of us but we are very
determined to take the GAA in Antrim forward," added McSparran.
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