591 
On de ball! SAT27APR24 John McGowan
his fine Saturday evening, Taoiseach Simon Harris officially opened the 
new all-weather pitch for Greystones United AFC.
Jaysus, that lad gets around, agus no mistake.
The bould Harris has worked for years with local sport representatives and Chairman Andy O’Hara to secure the game-changing all-weather pitch for Greystones, a pitch that will be of “huge benefit to the local community all year round, come rain or come shine,” Taoiseach Simon Harris said.
Explained GUAFC communications officer Paul Chiverton, “After a number of years of planning, local fundraising, and, with the assistance of our local TDs, the crucial securing of a government grant, we started to dig up one of our 7/9 a side grass pitches on 31st August 2023.”
Despite missing their initial target launch date, the club was delighted to take delivery of the newly completed 3G 7/9 a-side pitch on 23rd February 2024, some 186 days later.
“This new pitch represents an investment of circa €500k,” says Paul, “and further adds to the world class facilities that Greystones United AFC offers to our members, community and surrounding areas.
Speaking at the opening today Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “Being in Greystones this evening I am so energised and thrilled to open the new all weather pitch for Greytsones United AFC.
“The local community has worked so hard to see this delivered.”
Added Chiverton, “We continue to go from strength to strength, supporting some 1100 playing members with circa 60 teams, with an increasing proportion being female. We have our Women’s National League partnership and club player pathway partnership with Bray Wanderers FC that we value immensely.
“We are very proud of our club’s continued development with the addition of this new pitch and we’re delighted to see so many local dignitaries and club members join us for the official opening.
“Including, of course, the country’s Taoiseach…”
Harris concluded, “As a local and as a Wicklow TD I will always work hand in hand with the community to deliver these public infrastructure projects that benefit everyone from all ages.
“I want to sincerely thank all that have worked with us to get this across the line. Let the games begin!”
