Portlaoise GAA to embark on ambitious development at Rathleague

Portlaoise GAA to embark on ambitious development at Rathleague

An artist's depiction of the new clubhouse planned for Portlaoise GAA club

PORTLAOISE GAA Club is set to embark on an ambitious development of grand proportions at their grounds at Rathleague. Plans for the development were unveiled at a meeting for club members on Monday night.

The development will commemorate Eoin Fitzpatrick and his 10-year-old son Dylan both of whom died in a road tragic accident in Turkey in July 2023.

Eoin Fitzpatrick’s sister Maryse and her husband Travis Knight are financially supporting the redevelopment of the club.

Pending planning approval, which will be submitted to Laois County Council this week, work on-site is expected to commence later this year, with completion projected for Summer 2027.

This marks the next phase of an exciting program to improve the club’s grounds, further strengthening its role as a hub for sporting and community life in Portlaoise.

Eoin Fitzpatrick pictured with his eldest child Cian, alongside Dylan, after a Portlaoise game. Both Eoin and Dylan passed away after an accident in Turkey in 2023
Eoin Fitzpatrick pictured with his eldest child Cian, alongside Dylan, after a Portlaoise game. Both Eoin and Dylan passed away after an accident in Turkey in 2023

The planning application includes the construction of a new clubhouse and indoor training facility, a viewing stand, as well as pitch and floodlight enhancements. The works will provide high quality facilities for club members, players, and the wider Portlaoise community, from young athletes to lifelong supporters.

Eamon Fennelly and Dermot Costelloe, joint Chairperson of Portlaoise GAA Club, commented: “This is an important day for Portlaoise GAA, the Fitzpatrick family and for the entire community.

“The submission of our planning application is a testament to the incredible work that has already taken place at Rathleague and reflects our commitment to providing a top-class facility.

“Pending planning approval, this redevelopment would not only enhance our club’s sporting infrastructure but also provide the town’s young people with resources and facilities to help them reach their full potential. The redevelopment would represent a significant contribution to the sporting and social fabric of Portlaoise and we are incredibly grateful to Maryse and Travis whose support enables this.” Maryse and Travis Knight also reflected on the importance of reaching this phase of the development.

“It’s been incredibly heartening to see the passion and commitment displayed by everyone involved in this project to date. It further demonstrates the sense of community and togetherness that has helped our family immeasurably over the past two years. It also reinforces our belief that this is the right way to honour Eoin and Dylan in a meaningful and enduring way.”

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