Minister for Sport and Tourism, Catherine Martin was welcomed back to her hometown of Carrickmacross yesterday to celebrate with the local soccer club, Carrick Rovers after it received a 'Club Mark 1' award from FAI
A major development of the Carrick Rovers club's facilities is also underway, funding for which was provided by the Minister's Department.
Speaking to Northern Sound, she said she felt "deeply connected" to the area and was proud to see how far the local club has come since its inception in 1927.
The Minister explained that two new pitches would be officially opened in the Autumn of next year.
When asked if there would be a sufficient energy supply for new state of the art flood lighting at the facility, she highlighted how Minister Eamon Ryan had all that in hand.
"This is a club that was founded in 1927," continued Minister Martin.
"I have been out to the new development and they have two wonderful new pitches which will be opened by Autumn of next year.
"That's a sign of the times; they are really expanding here and have over 500 members.
"And for the first time ever they have two U12 girls teams."
