Former Northern Ireland international Jim Magilton at Dalriada School in Ballymoney toofficially open new pitch

The event began in the Sports Hall with Mr. Tom Skelton, Headmaster, welcoming the guests and paying tribute to the work of numerous individuals including Irish FA Grassroots Development Officer Mr. Wesley Gregg who has been instrumental in developing coach education on the 3G pitch at Dalriada.

Mr. Skelton also paid tribute to the work of Mr. Ian Getty who co-ordinated the football programme in Dalriada and has been instrumental in developing the sport in the School.

Chairman of Governors, Mr. Brian Dillon, thanked Mr. Magilton for being in attendance and paid tribute to the work of the school football coaching team of Mr. Ian Getty, Mr. Paul Gaston, Mr. Steven Carson, Mr. Ryan McQuillan and Mr. Ciaran McIvor.

He also praised the work of School Governor Mr. Tony Morrison who was the driving force in securing funding from Sport NI for the 3G pitch.

Mr. John Devlin, Head of PE, highlighted how football has developed at Dalriada over the years and pointed out that the school now competes in league and cup competition at every age group.

He said “It’s a great honour to welcome Jim Magilton to the school.”