Our monthly executive was held last week (April 01st), with a particular focus within the meeting on football.  As flagged a few months ago, competitive football is and will remain my first priority within the club.  Seamus Kenny attended the meeting in his capacity as Football Chairman and briefed the Executive on what his committee has been doing thus far, the state of football across the club and what their intended actions are.  The Football Committee has put structures in place to support the GAA teams and there are also tie ins with the LGFA.  The committee is also looking to build up the skill-set of club coaches and team resources in order to offer all our teams the very best in coaching and training.  There are a number of underage teams where there are challenging numbers and actions are being put in place to address these, including greater involvement in the schools, advertising around the town and the roll out of a free Easter Football Camp (April 23 – 25 inclusive).  Making sure all our players get adequate game time is also an ongoing action, particularly important for our three adult men's teams who are currently competing in their respective leagues. 

 

Outside of the football, other routine matters were updated and discussed.  Of particular note, is that all teams and sections of the club are asked to only utilise O’Neills for team gear and jerseys this year.  There are various reasons for this, but suffice to say that it is the opinion of the Executive that it is our best interest to have one quality supplier, that is an official merchandiser for both the GAA and the LGFA. Later this year, it is the Executive’s intention to consider entering into a gear and jersey arrangement for  2026 onwards, following engagement with the official suppliers.  Having consistency across all our teams and sections will enhance our club brand, togetherness and makes commercial sense. Membership was also discussed and a working group will be established soon to plan for 2026 membership structures (rates, bundles and types) so as to position the club properly in 2026. 

 

On the Finance front, the efforts in Q1 regarding our ongoing fundraising efforts were pleasing and all are encouraged as messaged before, to pay membership, play the lotto and where possible support a fundraiser and encourage those outside the club to do so. As I flagged before https://simonstowngfc.clubzap.com/articles/145728, the cost of running a club like ours is very significant so every euro counts. Regarding Infrastructure, given we have now fully paid for the Front Pitch lights, our focus now turns to Phase 2 Development which includes the upgrading of the lights and other pitch works on the Main Pitch and the purchase of juvenile goalposts.  On the Community side, the coffee shop is up and running and is an excellent offering to all our members and guests.  Everyone is encouraged to visit and ideally support it.  The clubs participation in the St Patrick’s Day Parade was successful with tentative plans in place for 2026.   On the community and fundraising side there are some upcoming dates to flag as below:-

 

Continued best of luck to all our teams and to our players playing for Meath at various levels as their championships progress.  Remember to get involved where you can within the club.