Leinster Senior League Teams to Merge

Dear all

The following press release was issued today.

Richard Dixon
For Phoenix FC


Two of LSL's Major Clubs to Merge
May 2, 2006

Ashtown Villa FC and Kinvara Ards FC, two of Leinster’s premier soccer clubs, today announced that they are to formally merge on June 1. The new club, Phoenix FC Navan Road, will have over 20 senior and underage teams competing in DDSL, NDSL and Leinster Senior League from the 2006-2007 season. A non-competitive junior academy will provide football for the youngest members.

Ashtown United and Villa Park Rangers merged in 1987 to form Ashtown Villa, while Kinvara Boys and Ards came together in 2001. Ashtown Villa is in the process of developing new playing facilities at Scribblestown (near Ashtown railway station). The new ground will have a clubhouse, two full size pitches and a floodlight all weather pitch and will, when completed, host the new club’s senior and youth teams. The underage teams will continue to operate from their base in Glendhu Park. The use of the club’s own all weather facility will be invaluable to the coaching and development of all the members as they will no longer be dependant on the availability of facilities outside the area.

Phoenix FC NR chairman Seamus O’Connell said “the Navan Road community can now lend their support to a single club that will compete with the best in the country. The shared resources of Ashtown Villa and Kinvara Ards will ensure that every child in the area who wants to play football will have a progression path to continue playing football in their community and achieve their full potential at the club competing at a level that will allow them develop.”

Vice chair Margaret Oliver said, “Our philosophy of structured ‘soccer for all’ - regardless of age or gender - will be fulfilled. The key to progress and achievement is facilities. We plan, in addition to the current school boy and senior setup, to establish girl’s soccer teams”.

The senior team manager will be Harry Kenny. Harry, who brings over 20 years experience of playing and coaching at the highest level, is currently the manager of Ashtown Villa’s senior side and was previously involved with Kinvara Boys.

Phoenix FC’s first activity will be a party to celebrate the history and achievements of the four founding clubs: Ards FC, Ashtown United, Kinvara Boys and Villa Park Rangers. The event, scheduled to take place in mid-May, is open to all who played for or supported any of the clubs. Tickets and further information available from Seamus O’Connell (087 622 9994) or Margaret Oliver (087 681 8202).

Harry Kenny. No doubt his brother Marc, ex Shamrock Rovers, will be playing for them next year. Anyway best of luck with the merger, but these things don't always run smoothly.