A Tribute to the Past
Back in 1953 a progressive group of men, namely Gerard McGough, Michael Mulcair and Seamus Murphy sowed the seeds of association football in the parish. The three founding members became convinced that there was only one effective outlet for their enthusiasm, a football team of their own, Askeaton AFC was the result.
The first committee was formed in the library on the 10th November 1954 where a large crowd attended. The following officers were elected: Hon-Secretary-Michael Mulcair, Hon-Treasurer-Michael O’Shaughnessy, Committee-PJ Sheehy, Michael Collins, John Culhane, Seamus Ryan, Bill Feeheney, Bill Cunnane, Club captain-Paddy Fitzgerald, Vice-Captain Seamus Murphy. Askeaton Rugby Club presented a set of their red and black coloured jerseys to the newly formed soccer club. To this date the colours are worn with pride by the teams of Askeaton AFC.
The first official match was held at Purtills Field, Church Street, Askeaton AFC entertained Newcastle United in a friendly. The locals went down 2-1 and Askeaton’s goal was scored by Ternie Moran which is the first recorded goal in the history of the club. Following are the players who played in the game: Michael Corbett, Michael Casey, P.T. Fitzgerald, Ternie Moran, Seamus Murphy, Michael Kenneally, Michael Mulcair, Paddy Ryan, Paddy Fitzgerald, Liam Purcell, Pat Moran, Dave McMahon.
The path to Excellence
During the clubs history Askeaton AFC have been proud affiliates of the Limerick City Leagues, The Desmond District Leagues, The Desmond Schoolboys and the Limerick County Schoolboys League. In the 1960s the junior and schoolboy teams played much of their football against opposition such as Wembley Rovers, Hyde Rangers, Pike Rovers and Fairview Rangers, with wonderful success. Many of these games were played at Stephen O’Donoghues field, Clounreask and Caledonian Park, Limerick.
The club have won numerous competitions at all levels in the various leagues. The team excelled at National level in schoolboy competitions in the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s with heroic performances against sides such as St Michaels, Home Farm, Stella Maris and Cherry Orchard at advanced in the prestigious national cups. The club has also excelled at provincial level, twice Munster youths cup semi finalists and finalists once in the Munster Junior Cup.
As part of the restructuring process which has been ongoing over the past year, a consensus has emerged that Askeaton AFC should have one overriding objective relating to:
Provision of extra resources for underage.
Underage Football
Askeaton AFC are aware that there is a long way to go before they can emulate the structures of the giants such as Home Farm, St. Kevins Boys or Cherry Orchard. The start has been made with the committee investing above the normal funding in the schoolboy section with major investments on the way on an annual basis, the results of which will be seen in the years ahead.
In looking to the future there is a strong determination at committee level that the membership and local community will become direct beneficiaries of the clubs development strategy. The club are looking forward to working in a spirit of friendship and co-operation with all of the clubs and organisations in the parish with the common goal of building a caring, vibrant community spirit for now and the future.
If at any stage you would like to contact us u can email us directly at enquiry@askeatonafc.com
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