Cork's Leeside United AFC to open new all-weather pitch

Leeside United AFC is set to celebrate the opening of its new all-weather pitch, named the Martin O’Neill Astro, on Saturday.

The pitch is named in honour of Martin O’Neill, a founding member of the club who died in 2019.

Following his death, the O’Neill family donated €100,000 to Leeside United in his memory, and it was this donation that was instrumental in kickstarting the fundraiser for the new astro.

Leeside United also received €150,000 in sports capital funding, and the members’ super draw brought in over €100,000 for the club.

Club sponsors including Fitzpatrick’s Foodstore, Elm Tree Glounthaune, Alpha Wealth, Divine Beauty, and many other local businesses also fundraised €850,000 for the much-needed new astro pitch.

“The new Martin O’Neill Astro will be an invaluable resource for Leeside United as they continue to expand the club and teach the sport to kids,” said Kerri O’Neill of Fitzpatrick’s Foodstore.

“We are proud to see the opening of the pitch which is such a befitting legacy for our father and his love of the beautiful game.”

Mr O’Neill began as a player-chairman for the club and also founded Glounthaune United in 2003 in response to the growing demand for underage soccer in the area.

As a coach, Mr O’Neill ensured each player had the opportunity to play and his priority was for every player to have fun.

The new state-of-the-art facility will enable Leeside United to continue catering to its fast-growing player base who compete in the Munster Senior League, Cork Women and Schoolgirls Soccer League, Cork Youth League, and Cork Schoolboys League.

As well as Leeside United, the pitch will also be used by Little Island National School and residents of the Ashbourne House direct provision centre for PE and leisure.

The official opening of the Martin O’Neill Astro will take place on Saturday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm. All are welcome to attend for a free family day of bouncy castles, face painting, and DJ entertainment.