County Roscommon soccer club developing multi-purpose community function room

A dedicated multi-purpose community function room which is part of ‘The Celtic Community HUB’ is being developed by Boyle Celtic FC and is seen as a much needed and vital part of infrastructure for the town.

The club has welcomed the news that it is to receive €200,000 in funding from Roscommon LEADER Partnership towards the cost of the build with the club stating the “investment will significantly enhance the social, cultural, and civic life of Boyle and the wider North Roscommon region.” The state-of-the-art facility, which will be constructed as an extension to the club’s existing clubhouse, will provide a much-needed venue for meetings, social gatherings, educational events, and civic activities — serving not just club members, but the entire community.

A statement from the Boyle Celtic FC also outlined, “In a town that currently lacks a hotel or suitably sized public meeting venue, this new function room will fill a critical gap by offering a flexible space for award ceremonies, community meetings, and social functions.” “This is a game-changer for our club and the wider Boyle community,” said Aaron O’Connor, Club Chairperson, Boyle Celtic FC. “We’ve seen the need for years — not just for our players and volunteers, but for the many groups who have no place to meet locally. With the support of the LEADER Programme, we’re proud to now deliver a facility that will be open, welcoming, and inclusive for all.” It is intended that the function room will be used by local youth groups, schools, charities, and cultural activities; and also for educational events, digital workshops, and live match screenings.

The room will be fully digitally enabled, featuring high-speed broadband, a large display hub, and modern infrastructure, making it suitable for a wide range of community and private uses.

This initiative is the latest milestone in Boyle Celtic’s long-term commitment to community development. It follows significant past investments in all-weather pitches, a spectator stand, and upgraded facilities — all driven by a volunteer-led committee.

“It’s about giving the people of Boyle — from young people to active age groups, from local schools to new arrivals in the community — a place to gather, connect, learn, and celebrate. It’s an investment in inclusion, resilience, and rural regeneration,” said Tomás Beades, Operations Manager of Roscommon LEADER Partnership.

Mr Beades thanked in particular Mark Keaveney and Cathriona MacCarthy from Roscommon County Council for their support for the project. The LEADER funding was approved at the recent LCDC meeting in the county.