Official Opening of the clubs New Dressing Rooms, Gym and Field

Even the Sun arrived at Ahane last Sunday to mark to official opening of our second playing pitch and the blessing and opening of our new dressing room and gym complex. This day marked another significant advancement in our Clubs development with the completion of these badly needed facilities that are necessary to accommodate the large numbers of young boys and girls who enjoy hurling, football, camogie and ladies football with Ahane. The Gym facility will be very beneficial for the development of our adult teams, both male and female.
There was a very impressive line-up of visiting dignitaries, Officers from previous eras, and friends of Ahane present.
The day started with an Senior ACL match between great rivals Ahane and Garryspillane. The Bouncers were generous to us by conceding home advantage in order that the match could coincide with the opening of the pitch. Fittingly, the game ended in a draw.
We were very honoured that the recently elected President of the GAA, John Horan was able to grace the day with his presence. We were also delighted to have as a speaker, John Cregan, the newly elected Chairman of Limerick Country Board. The Munster and Central Council of CLG were also very welcome guests. There was good representation from politicians and other public representatives. The turnout from past and present Ahane Officers, supporters and friends was tremendous.

The official proceedings started when visiting dignitaries were piped in from the entrance by our visiting bagpiper Mike.
The President was then granted a guard of honour by underage and Senior players from all codes.
The GAA is noted for its respect for our National Anthem, the piper led the large attendance in a rousing rendition of Amhran Na BhFiann.
The plaque commemorating the event was unveiled and the ribbon marking the opening of the pitch was cut by the President of CLG.
Fr Kyne then blessed the complex and spoke of the advantage of it to the Club going forward.
MC for the day Johnny Meskell introduced the speakers on the day which began with an excellent speech by our Club Chairman, Colin Barry. He officially welcomed our visitors. He thanked all who worked so hard and contributed so generously to bring the project to fruition. He also outlined the short term and long term plans for the Club.
The Chairman of Limerick, John Cregan gave his usual warmhearted, honest and sincere address.
All who listened to the speech from the CLG President, John Horan would have to be impressed.  He gave a strong, relevant and rousing address that left no one in any doubt that he is a formidable and capable leader of our association. It is a tribute to the man that he had made himself so familiar with our Club that he was able to reel off the names of past and present players with ease.
Two young players, Jack Butler and Will McCormack made a presentation on behalf of Bord Na Nog to the President.
Colm, our Chairman then presented the President with a framed photograph of Ahanes most famous son, Mick Mackey.
The proceedings came to a close with copious refreshments for all present and visits to our new complex.
Ahane have produced great hurling and football teams in the past. Last Sunday was a great culmination of magnificent team work from many in the parish.