Kinsealy preparing for milestone season

KINSEALY Boys FC recently held their last presentation night under their old name at Nzone Sports, Posey Row, before the club changes to a more gender inclusive title of Kinsealy United.

The awards ceremony was held ahead of what will be a milestone season for the Northside club when it embarks on its 20th year in the new season (2016/2017).

The awards day included bouncy castles and face-painting along with music from DJ Don, who also gave a running commentary of the night as the master of ceremonies.

Annamaria Dunne, who has been secretary of Kinsealy United for three years, described the event as a happy occasion for all the players and their families.

“We made a presentation to all of our players from Academy up to under-13 and the manager from each team presented their players with either medals or trophies,” said Dunne.

Although all the players were awarded either medals or trophies, the night was even more special for Kinsealy’s Under-11 side as they won the NDSL ‘C’ League this season.

Dunne explained the decision for the change of name from Kinsealy Boys to Kinsealy United.

“We found it was inclusive for both boys and girls rather than have it as Kinsealy Boys and we are trying to encourage girls,” she said. “Certainly from the younger ages we are getting quite a few girls in.” 

This increase in female members at Kinsealy United also correlates with an upward trend with members in general. Since this time last year, Kinsealy’s numbers have more or less doubled.

“From this time last year we have gone up 50 per cent. When I joined the club three years ago as secretary we had six teams but now, going into the 2016/2017 season, we will have 13 teams,” Dunne explained.

For some of the players their week got even better after the awards ceremony. Kinsealy United were invited to play at Dalymount Park during half time of the SSE Airticity Premier League clash between Bohemians and St Pat’s, with the hosts winning 5-1.

Since Kinsealy United’s foundation in 1997, the club have moved around in relation to playing facilities, playing home matches at Malahide Castle, Kinsealy Court and Waterside. However, they have been campaigning for funding to allow them to construct a pitch they can call their own. 

•If your child was born between 2003 and 2011 and you are thinking of signing them up with Kinsealy United, or you would like more information about the club, contact Annamaria Dunne on 086-8166725.

REPORT: Brein McGinn