Arrival of dome marks exciting new chapter for Mayo tennis club
CASTLEBAR Tennis Club is celebrating the arrival of its new state-of-the-art tennis dome, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for the club and the wider community.
The installation of the next-generation dome comes more than two years after the club's previous dome was destroyed during Storm Isha in January 2024.
Since then, the club has undertaken an extensive fundraising campaign, supported by generous contributions from the local community and funding secured through the Sports Capital Programme. These combined efforts have now culminated in the successful installation of the new facility.
The installation day yesterday saw an outstanding community effort, with club members, Castlebar Tidy Towns volunteers and Park Run volunteers all coming together to help bring the project to fruition.
"We were overwhelmed by the support shown," said John Feerick, chairman of Castlebar Tennis Club. "So many members and volunteers played a part in making this possible, from assisting with the installation of the dome itself to the team at Bridie's Kitchen, whose volunteers kindly provided refreshments throughout the day. It was a fantastic example of community spirit in action."
The new dome represents a significant investment in sporting infrastructure for both Castlebar and County Mayo. It will enable year-round play and training, providing players of all ages and abilities with access to high-quality facilities regardless of weather conditions.
Castlebar Tennis Club has long been recognised as a leading centre for junior tennis development and has produced numerous national champions in recent years. The new dome will further strengthen the club's ability to nurture emerging talent while supporting recreational and competitive tennis throughout the region.
In addition to its sporting achievements, the club has a proud tradition of community engagement, regularly partnering with local organisations and groups to support social inclusion initiatives. The enhanced facility will ensure that these valuable community programmes can continue and expand in the years ahead.
The arrival of the new dome is a testament to the resilience, determination, and collective effort of the club's members, volunteers, supporters, and funding partners, and represents a major milestone in the continued growth of tennis in Mayo.
Among the many volunteers on site as the new dome was erected was the cathaoirleach of the Castlebar Municipal District, Councillor Ger Deere, who said it is great to see the dome again on the Castlebar skyline.
“Not alone is it a wonderful addition to the sporting facilities at Lough Lannagh but the economical benefits it brings to the town is enermous, with competitors from all over the country attending tournaments throughout the year,” said Councillor Deere.
He complimented the tennis club members for their tenacity and determination after the devastation of losing the original dome in 2024 to the erection of this new state of the art facility.