Louth GAA club roll out new fundraising programme

In a bold move to secure the future and enhance the facilities of Geraldines GFC, the Louth club has launched a brand-new fundraising initiative: Cairde na nGearaltach (Friends of the Geraldines).

The scheme aims to support the ongoing development of the club’s home ground, McGeough Park in Haggardstown, and to provide top-level resources for players, coaches and the wider club community.

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Vision

Club chairperson Brian Cafferty addressed members and supporters with enthusiasm, emphasising the importance of building on the solid foundations already in place at McGeough Park.

He explained that to ensure the club stays competitive both on and off the field, investment in infrastructure is essential.

Senior club member and former Louth player Dan Corcoran described McGeough Park as more than just a “pitch” to him — it is where dreams are shaped, hard work is forged, and pride in the green and white jersey is strengthened.

Meanwhile, club player and All-Ireland winner Eilís Hand spoke of her own pathway through the club, and how Cairde na nGearaltach offers an opportunity to ensure that young boys and girls will have the facilities and environment they deserve.

Planned upgrades at McGeough Park

Under the initiative, the club has laid out key projects to modernise and expand its facilities:

• Installation of a 100m × 32m synthetic-grass training area, complete with six 12m high LED floodlights, spectator fencing, pitch-dividing net and ball-stop netting.
• Creation of a 100m terrace to replace the existing bank, with seating and roof cover.
• Improvement to the club ball wall with added graphics and target features.
• Refurbishment of the community hall and kitchen (new flooring, doors, improved kitchen facilities).
• New dressing rooms and conversion of attic space into community rooms.
• Provision of external toilets and an upgraded spectator stand

How to support

The campaign invites supporters, members, parents, and the broader Haggardstown & Blackrock GAA community to get involved. Three contribution options are offered:

• €25 per month for 5 years;
• €300 per annum for 5 years;
• A one-off payment of €1,500.

Membership benefits

Members of Cairde na nGearaltach will enjoy a suite of benefits, including:

• Entry into the members-only annual draw each December (1st prize €1,000; 2nd prize €500).
• Entry into a members-only draw each July (or later if finals moved) for two All-Ireland tickets.
• Exclusive branded Cairde na nGearaltach merchandise; a plaque in the grounds honouring members; and yearly update reports ahead of the AGM summarising the scheme’s contribution.
• In addition, members who are PAYE or self-assessed can contribute via tax relief – every €300 contributed gives the club a minimum extra €75 per annum via this route.

Why it matters

With infrastructure constantly evolving in modern sport, Geraldine's GFC is taking proactive steps to future-proof its home and resources.

Investing in synthetic surfaces, floodlighting, seating, community spaces, and upgraded facilities demonstrates the club’s ambition to serve not just competitive teams but the wider community and youth pathway.

As Brian Mac Eachartaigh noted: “Together we can ensure that McGeough Park remains a beacon of excellence inspiring future generations...”

Final call

Supporters are encouraged to scan the QR code on the club web page or set up a standing order via the attached mandate to become members of Cairde na nGearaltach and contribute to this exciting chapter in the club’s history.

With the club founded in 1904 and firmly rooted in the community, this fundraiser marks a significant step towards ensuring the green and white of Geraldines continue to fly high.

For further information, visit the club website or contact the club membership secretary.