It has been a long time coming. A stand fit for purpose, protecting the growing band of supporters from the worst of the west of Ireland weather.
Connacht Rugby’s new stand at Dexcom Stadium is aptly named The Clan Stand, to honour past, present and future supporters.
The new Clan Stand, officially opening on Saturday for the Connacht v Leinster fixture, will accommodate some 6,500 supporters, while also delivering "state-of-the-art facilities" for players, officials, partners, media, volunteers, and all match-day attendees.
Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane says the development of Dexcom Stadium, which boasts the new high-performance centre and also the new stand, is another "significant milestone for Connacht Rugby", and for the entire province.
"The old Clan Terrace was synonymous with Connacht Rugby, and over 13 years it became the home of many of our loyal supporters, with many shared memories made over that period.
"By naming our new stand The Clan Stand, we want to acknowledge the history and memories that have gone before and ensure it remains a special place for generations to come," Ruane says.
The original Clan Terrace, which was built in 2011, catered for Connacht's rapidly growing fanbase, and for 13 years was home for many of Connacht’s most vocal and loyal followers. Now, Ruane says, the new Clan Stand will seek to "preserve the unique atmosphere that has made Dexcom Stadium famous across European club rugby, while also providing facilities that match our shared ambitions both on and off the pitch".
"We greatly look forward to opening the doors of the new Clan Stand, and in doing so marking the start of a new era for the club and the province."
The new facility will boast 1,600 spectators on the terrace, 4,119 seated, and 836 in the hospitality section with accessibility areas on all levels.
Facilities include 10 bars and food outlets located across three levels; more than 150 men’s, ladies' and accessibility toilets, and three family changing rooms. A coffee shop will be open six days a week, while the special Tunnel Club, will provide fans with a "unique hospitality experience boasting a private bar and function area which looks directly into the player tunnel".
In addition, the new stand boasts a dedicated Sensory Room and Players’ Family Reception Room.
Ruane says improved access and entry systems will help reduce queues, improve circulation, and enhance overall comfort.
Connacht Rugby is undertaking a new readiness plan ahead of its official opening for the club’s URC fixture against Leinster on Saturday, January 24.
