A unique piece of Athlone sporting and social heritage is now occupying pride of place at Athlone Town’s new stadium in Lissywollen.
It follows the recent donation by Athlone Towncentre of the historic framed picture of the Athlone Town squad that won the Free State Cup in 1924 to Athlone Town FC.
Measuring over four feet in width and three feet in height, the massive team picture honours a glorious part of Athlone’s rich sporting tradition.
The picture was well-known to generations of Athlonians, having hung in the Royal Hoey Hotel for well over 50 years
When the developers of Athlone Towncentre bought the hotel as part of the site for the centre, they placed the picture in secure storage.
Recently, they generously agreed to donate the picture to Athlone Town FC.
Athlone Towncentre marketing manager Shirley Delahunt said: “Athlone Towncentre is always eager to support community groups and organisations within Athlone. As part of the make-up of the town, we are always happy to give something back to the local community.”
She continued: “The recent publication of a new book, When We Were Kings, telling the story of this very team means it is now an opportune time for Athlone Towncentre to hand over this piece of the town’s history to the local football club.”
The presentation of the picture to the club was made before kick-off at the recent home game against Limerick in Athlone.
The picture is now on permanent display in the stadium.
Tony Knight, Athlone Town FC chairman, said: “Athlone Town FC, as Ireland’s oldest League of Ireland club, has a proud tradition in the game. We are delighted to receive this part of our own history and look forward to giving it a new home. We are particularly appreciative of the gesture from Athlone Towncentre.”
More details of the cup winners of 1924 can be found in the new book When We Were Kings, which is available in local stores and online at www.whenwewerekings.ie
