Former Ireland star returns to Tipperary school for opening of major new facility
Former Munster and Ireland international Denis Leamy returned to his old school to formally open the new all-weather rugby facility
Rockwell College marked a significant milestone in the development of sport at the school on Saturday, September 19, with the official opening of Willie Duggan Park, its new 4G rugby facility.
Members of the Rockwell community, past pupils, supporters and invited guests gathered to celebrate the completion of the development and recognise those whose generosity and support helped make the new facility possible.
The day began with a Donors’ Lunch in the Senior Refectory, where those who contributed to the development were welcomed by the College and thanked for their support.
Attention then turned to Willie Duggan Park for the official opening ceremony, with Rockwell welcoming back past pupil and former Munster and Ireland international Denis Leamy to formally open the facility.
Members of the family of the late Willie Duggan, after whom the new facility has been named, were also among the guests of honour for the occasion.
Leamy’s return provided a fitting link between generations of Rockwell’s rugby tradition, having progressed from the College to represent both Munster and Ireland at the highest level.
“Thanks to all for building this wonderful facility, and for giving us the opportunity to invest in rugby and to develop all that’s good about the game of rugby,” Leamy said.
The new 4G rugby facility will provide Rockwell students with a high-quality, all-weather environment for training, development and competition.
Rockwell College Principal Audrey O’Byrne said the development would provide benefits for students for many years to come.
“Willie Duggan Park is a fantastic addition to Rockwell College and, most importantly, a facility that our students will benefit from for many years to come.
“It will provide further opportunities for participation, development and enjoyment of sport, and we are immensely grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”
The opening comes ahead of two upcoming events at the College, with a Boarding Taster Night taking place on Friday, October 2, followed by the College’s Open Day on Saturday, October 3, from 10.00am to 1.00pm. The Principal’s Address will take place at 10.15am.
Rockwell College thanked all those who contributed to the development of Willie Duggan Park and those who attended the official opening.