Football

Tyrone’s Centre of Excellence at Garvaghey a rich resource

More than 52,000 visitors utilised the facilities at Tyrone’s Centre of Excellence at Garvaghey over the past year.

The figure was revealed by Garvaghey Management Group chairperson Eileen Connolly in her annual report.

The majority of demand relates to the pitches, with more than 84 per cent coming to the complex to use the outdoor facilities in 2017/18.

“We are in a very privileged position to have a facility such as Garvaghey, made possible by Tyrone Gaels, both past and present, at home and abroad,” said Ms Connolly.

“We are indebted to those who made it possible to nurture and grow – our clubs, patrons, Club Tyrone members, Dragain Thír Eoghain contributors, and all the volunteers who give so generously of their time.

“To continue to attract 50,000-plus users is testament to the wonderful facilities we offer and we thank them for choosing us and helping contribute to the income stream necessary to maintain our centre.”

But the committee chair stressed that management of the pitches at the centre continues to present a major challenge, with one of the playing surfaces having to be replaced recently.

“One of the most challenging areas to manage on all levels is that of the pitches at Garvaghey.

“It remains a fine balancing act to have pitches available while ensuring they are rotated regularly to minimise damage and allow for maintenance work to be carried out.

“Due to the ongoing drainage problems with the pitches, an Agronomist Report was commissioned which recommended removal in its entirety and restructure of Pitch 2.

“This work was carried out by Hackett Bros. at a cost of £29k and was delivered both on time and within budget. We are grateful to Brian and thank him most sincerely for his meticulous dedication and management of this project. It is hoped that this pitch will be ready to use again early July 2019.”

A wind turbine erected at the complex provides an important income stream.

“The wind turbine continues to pay back the investment outlaid, this year almost £50k was received in ROC’s payments. A maintenance contract has been put in place with FES Solutions and thanks are extended to Sean Byrne for his continued guidance and expertise.”

She paid tribute to the Garvaghey staff for their role in “delivering the Tyrone Experience and providing a warm and inviting welcome to all our users.

“We are indebted to Anne-Marie McNulty, Gregory McSorley, Roisin McSorley for their hard work and dedication throughout the year, and all the staff who are based or touch base at Garvaghey for helping deliver excellent service and the Tyrone vision.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to Dominic McCaughey for his continued guidance, support and expertise.

“The GMG continues to work closely with other committees and Tyrone Gaels as required and wish to thank all who assist us when called upon with special mention to Gerard Bradley and Aidy O’Kane for their continued support and assistance.

“As always it is a privilege to chair the Garvaghey Management Group, a task made easy by the full support, dedication and commitment of the whole Group, who always give so generously of their time and expertise.”