Tracton GAA club reveal ambitious plans to upgrade facilities at Minane Bridge 

TRACTON GAA CLUB are seeking community support to invest in its ambitious plans to upgrade its facilities at Minane Bridge.

With a price tag of €550,000, the club has embarked on a campaign to secure donations from its supporters to ensure a swift completion of the works, which will see the addition of a walkway, astroturf facility, floodlights and a car park.

A club that has never lacked ambition.

"The plans and the numbers are significant. It is important to show the community and the wider environs how progressive the club is and that Tracton takes significant steps forward," said Eddie Murphy, a development committee member.

It is not just about keeping up with the pace of other clubs or facilities but trying to get ahead as well, and I think that progression is very important."

A €200,000 capital sports grant allocation is hoped to be supplemented by a recently launched campaign to secure donations from supporters.

The benefits of this will see additional funds coming to the club as it can claim tax relief from the revenue commissioners as a result of the individual donations.

Tracton is a thriving club in the Carrigdhoun division and needs more facilities to keep developing. 

"Our success on the pitch is not our major milestone. It is a vibrant community feel, where people want to be a part of it," remarked Billy Lynch, chairman of the underage club.

With over 100 boys on their books at U12 and a similar figure for the camogie club, the future looks bright, but the priority for the coming season is winning the South East Junior A Hurling Championship and having a crack off the County Championship.

It is a similar ambition for the camogie club, which lost out in last year's Junior A county final to Ballinora and will hope to go one step further in 2024.

"Our numbers are growing and have grown over the years. We have a great retention of players and are able to field two adult teams," remarked chairperson Mary Quinn.

"We are at a good standard of camogie; we have reached county finals, and we just want to build on what we have now."

Outside of the works aiding the ambitions of the Carrigdhoun outfit, the club wants to be an essential focal point for the entire community, with the new walkway providing a safe place for those who enjoy a regular walk.

To donate, you can give a cheque or cash to the club, pay by electronic funds, set up a standing order or use an online monthly credit card payment.

Tracton is also interested in contacting its diaspora, many of whom have lost links with the club.

If you need more information on the initiative, log onto www.tractondevelopment.com.