Field of Dreams becomes a Center of Excellence
June 22, 2010This sporting organization was formed in 1972. The club has played on these same grounds in picturesque Orangeburg since it began leasing the fields from the State of New York almost forty years ago. In 2000, twenty club members and their families signed personal guarantees with the Union State Bank to obtain a mortgage note to purchase these playing fields and the adjoining parking lot, totaling 11 acres. Using the initiative of this daring decision as a benchmark, the club set out on a fundraising drive designed to raise enough finances to pay off the outstanding mortgage. Combining the selfless efforts of our club members and generosity of our many benefactors, the funds to achieve the goal of making the final mortgage payment were ultimately achieved. And in 2005 the club gained outright ownership of their own grounds. The newly sodded surfaces are now ready for use and have the added amenity of being equipped with lighting for use during night games. Also on the site will be the 'An Gorta Mor' (translated The Great Hunger) monument commemorating the Irish Famine of 1847, and a children's playground for the younger siblings of our players. A new clubhouse complete with indoor gym, team locker rooms, a meeting room and a pavilion with cooking facilities are also among the plans, and will be added in the near future.
The ethos of the club has been a strong bond between itself and the community; while instilling strong family values in all of its endeavors. Slated on the schedule over the three days of the 'Official Field Opening Weekend' will be Gaelic football games, featuring both children and adult teams (female and male), races, and of course food and beverages. Fun and games for adults and children alike will be on the agenda as well. Traditional Irish music will be provided on Friday evening, Saturday & Sunday. On Saturday evening, after all the games have concluded an evening of 'Dancing Under the Stars', under a large marquee tent will take place. The field Invocation will take place at 6pm on Saturday, July 24th. In conjunction with the field opening, the Annual Robert McKiernan and Dennis McHugh field days will be held. These field days consist of a series of youth games dedicated to the memory of three Rockland G.A.A. players, the above mentioned Robert and Dennis and John Connolly who were unfortunately taken from us too young. But their spirit and character is embodied in these underage competitions. The Rockland Gaelic Athletic Association is a 501(c)(3) registered not-for-profit organization, and as the club continues to grow it provides its members, friends and neighbors the opportunity to partake in and enjoy Irish culture and sport in a family and community friendly atmosphere. Feel free to stop by and get a taste of Gaelic Games, Irish culture and community pride. You are all welcome to enjoy our fields and the games of Gaelic football and hurling. For more please go to our website: www.RocklandGAA.com.
Rockland G.A.A. Club Contacts:
Noel O'Connell, Rockland G.A.A. Corresponding Secretary 914 527-0254, e-mail: [email protected]
Michael Healy, Public Relations, Rockland G.A.A. 917-887-5752, e-mail: [email protected]
Brigid McElligott, Tweet
