Legendary Home Farm celebrate anniversary

ONE of the Northside’s most iconic clubs celebrated its 85th anniversary last week with the opening of a refurbished clubhouse in the presence of soccer legend John Giles, FAI CEO John Delany and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring.

Home Farm Football Club has been a part of the Drumcondra and Whitehall communities since 1928 and over the year has produced a string of players who went on to have successful careers.

Irish internationals, Johnny Carey, Liam Whelan, Paddy Mulligan, Liam Brady, Ronnie Whelan, Ian Harte, Gary Kelly, Richard Dunne and Kenny Cunningham have all played in the club’s famous blue and white stripes.

Last week’s official opening was also marked by an U-16 tournament with Sunderland, Birmingham and Linfield FC. The home side was represented by the club’s U-16 Premier DDSL side who are managed by Keith Roche and coached by Anto Kennedy and the squad included recently capped goalkeeper, Eric Donnelly.

“It’s an appropriate way to celebrate 85 years of service to the game and a memorable weekend for all involved in the club,

? said Home Farm FC Chairman, Denis O’Sullivan.

Local councillor, Paul McAuliffe (FF), congratulated the club on its success to date and wished management and players well for the future.

“The Whitehall footballing institution has an impressive record of success which includes wins in practically every trophy at schoolboy level as well as FAI Junior, FAI Intermediate and FAI Senior Cup success in its illustrious history,

? he said.

“The significant revamp of the clubhouse has seen a spectacular upgrade of their facilities with newly refurbished dressing rooms and the installation of a gym while the addition of a 300 seater covered stand now makes Whitehall one of the most attractive venues for football in the country.

?