Mayo club unveil new club floodlights on historic occasion

A CAUSE for celebration was the feeling among Ballyheane AFC supporters and members on Saturday evening last as the club’s new floodlights were officially switched on by legendary club member Fleur O’Donohue, writes Mike Kelly.

A crowd of around 100 turned out to mark the occasion as the two-time Super League champions showed off their new instalment ahead of the league clash with Conn Rangers.

Chairman Cillian Scollan welcomed everyone to the historic evening and promised the club are not finished yet. “So much has been done with this club over its 38-year existence. From nearly pulling out of the Super League to going on to win Connaught titles and two leagues in a row.

“I wasn’t here for the formation of the club 38 years ago but I promise that everyone here is invited back in 2025 for our 40th when there will be even more big things to unveil!” he said.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne, cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, highlighted the importance of community involvement in getting these projects over the line. “It’s great to see these lights in place and being officially switched on. This is all down to the continuous hard work of the likes of Noel Tuffy and many others involved not only in Ballyheane Football Club but throughout the village.”

The match that followed may not be fondly remembered but the facilities now in place will be celebrated and used for years to come.