05-02-19

Dear Merlin Woods Sports Club members, players and parents

I am writing to you to inform you that Galway United Football Club is holding its ‘Reclaiming the Dyke' walk on Friday February 22nd at 6.45pm before our opening LOI game of the season against Shelbourne FC. Supporters are asked to gather at the Plots in Woodquay and march up the Dyke together at 6 30pm. Assembly 6 15pm.

Reclaiming the Dyke’s origins relate to the earliest era of LOI football here in Galway when followers walked up the Dyke Road together for matches. Terryland Park was then a more basic venue than the smashing stadium we now enjoy in Eamonn Deacy Park. Notwithstanding , the social interaction and spirit that characterised our LOI games up to 1994 is something that we wish to begin reclaiming this season and in the years ahead.

We earnestly ask all Galway soccer clubs to support the venture. Galway United is indebted to the herculean service of local football clubs in the development and promotion of the game. Our connect with the local game grows stronger following the recent changes in the national underage structures. We readily acknowledge the unstinting work of the local clubs and the Galway and District League. Some of the most experienced Galway and District League officials are to the fore in the development of our underage teams.

'Reclaiming the Dyke' we trust will bring a carnival atmosphere to Eamonn Deacy Park on the night. Macnas style drummers, President Higgins as our special guest and a Galway crowd roaring on its it's youthful local heroes. Players who have emerged from our own clubs and communities.

We need players, parents, grandparents ,men and women boys and girls with us on the night. This is our attempt to revive the maroon blood and ensure the same respect for a Galway soccer jersey as for a county jersey in any other code.

I write to you appreciating the many and varied time consuming aspect to your role. Perhaps there is a colleague in the club who might assist you or indeed lead a group of players from your club to the game ideally in your club colors. Whatever you can do will be greatly appreciated. Admission on the night is 10e for adults 5e for children.

Thanking you in anticipation of your kind support and appreciating your great efforts in what is often a thankless role.

Gach Rath Ort Féin agus do Chumann.

Bernie O’ Connell Vice President Galway United Football Club

Merlin Woods walkers can let us know by emailing merlinwoodssportsclub@gmail.com and we will walk together reclaiming the Dyke