IFA official cites United/Council partnership as model for other clubs
Thursday, 25 September 2008
Geoff Wilson, IFA’s head of Marketing and Communications, (front, centre), pictured with Ballymena United Chairman Robert Cupples, Ballymena Mayor, Councillor, Maurice Mills, Roy Walker, Ballymena Unieted manager, and player Gary Haveron.
Irish Football Association's Geoff Wilson has said that the Council/football club partnership used by Ballymena United should become a model for other teams in the Province, writes Shaun O'Neill.
Geoff, who is head of marketing and communications, was speaking at last Thursday night's official new League launch which took place in the Des Allen suite at the Showgrounds.
He praised the Council/United partnership and told the turnout -
“This could be looked at by other clubs. The one in Ballymena could become a model for others to follow."
Geoff congratulated the Council and United for working so well in partnership.
He spoke of the great family atmosphere at United - describing it as unique.
Geoff, who was accompanied by Darren Veighey, of the IFA Marketing Department, told the audience that the Association officials had been attending such launches all over the Province.
“We want to work with the clubs in all aspects. It has been a long journey getting where we are today but we intend making great strides," he said.
He also praised the fabulous facilities at Ballymena Showgrounds - and told of more funding to be released.
“We are moving in the right direction. We need people of come in behind us and support us and we need all the help and support of Councils.
At the League launch Ballymena United unveiled their new away strip with players Gary Haveron and Albert Watson modeling the latest kit.
Replica away strips will be on sale for the first time at Saturday's United v Bangor League clash at the Showsgrounds.
They are £35 for adults and £30 for children.
Meanwhile, the reason for the get-together was to officially launch the new 12-team Irish Premier League.
This was to have taken place earlier in the month, but had to be rescheduled due to United having a midweek match.
Ballymena Mayor, Councillor Maurice Mills, praised the efforts of the IFA as they seek to make the new League a success, and spoke highly of its lucrative sponsorship from JJB Sports.
United Chairman Robert Cupples thanked the local Council for their valued support.
“The facilities at the Showgrouds are top class. Over the next few years, with yet more work being done to enhance the set-up, Ballymena could become the No. 1 stadium in the Irish League," he said.
Mr. Cupples thanked all the Ballymena Council staff.
Ballymena United boss Roy Walker, who has not had the best of starts in his new manager's job, heard Mr. Cupples say that - ".... he will do a job for us. Our Board is convinced of that."
“We are on the right path and heading the right way. Roy and Jim (assistant manger), keep your heads up," said the Chairman.
