Leo Coffey, PRO St Mary’s GAA Club

Source: Athenry Journal No. 16 (2002).

Last August a new chapter began in the life of one of Ireland’s most successful G.A.A. clubs as St Mary’s new grounds were officially opened

Over the past 10 years our club has enjoyed much success on the playing field, winning county titles at all levels together with three All Ireland senior club titles and becoming one of the most successful clubs in Ireland. On Saturday, 17th  August, 2002, another milestone was reached in the history of the club when we opened our club house and grounds in Carnaun. In 1994 the club decided we would have to get another training ground as we had so many teams participating in competition. We rented Coen’s field in Carnaun and in 1998 the Coen family agreed to sell the field to the club. The executive of the club decided to prepare plans for the the complete development of the grounds, dressing rooms, gym, meeting room etc. and apply to the Department of Sport for funding. After four years work the club’s dream of having their own clubhouse was realised. This would not have been possible without the wonderful financial support of the local community.

Historic occasion

On Saturday, I7th August, 2002 another milestone was reached in the history of the club when we opened our clubhouse and grounds in Carnaun. Sean Kelly President elect of the G.A.A., performed the official opening of Carnaun grounds. Fr.Tony King performed the blessing of the grounds. Prior to the opening Athenry and Sarsfields played in a special minor hurling tournament for the Colin Conneely memorial trophy. The game was won by Athenry. After the official opening Athenry played Birr in a senior hurling game. Birr was victorious in that game.

The club would like to thank our generous sponsors and the Department of Sport for their financial assistance. Also our building contractors Johnny Healy, Brian Carroll and Johnny Higgins for their excellent workmanship  We hope that the new facilities will provide the youth of the parish with many hours of enjoyment and continued success.