Volleyball Ireland are delighted to announce the launch of three purpose-built Beach Volleyball Courts, at the Sport Ireland Campus.
The facility, developed by Sport Ireland includes floodlights, changing rooms, and permanent posts.
Blanchardstown may be 20k from the coast, but the sand-based facility will offer year-round access to beach courts for all levels of players. Volleyball Ireland President Clodagh NicCanna was ecstatic at the launch, “This has been a dream for a long time, and to see it here and real is amazing. We can’t wait to get all the community playing at this top class facility.”
A range of programmes and tournaments will be launched next week, with the facility open to the public in the next couple of weeks.
Dr Úna May, CEO of Sport Ireland, said: “This is an exciting milestone for Irish sport. The Campus already offers a host of sports facilities and with the launch of the Beach Sport Centre we’re offering something unique. In Ireland we can’t guarantee sun, but now at least we can offer sand and sports all year.
“This really reflects our vision for inclusive and innovative spaces that support both high-performance athletes and the local communities. We’re very happy to be able to open the door for people to experience the thrill of beach sports.”
The fantastic facility means Ireland’s top beach sport athletes can stay on top of their training, no matter the weather. They can perfect their serves, spikes, and sprints while gearing up for big competitions and international showdowns. And the best part? It’s not just for pros – local communities can join in the fun too, making it a beach party for everyone.
The Beach Sports Centre also forms a key part of Volleyball Ireland’s ambitious development plans, supporting long-term goals for athlete development, event hosting, and increase participation across all levels of the sport.
Gary Stewart, CEO of Volleyball Ireland, said: “Volleyball Ireland are delighted to work in with Sport Ireland and the Sport Ireland Campus to launch such a brilliant facility. Beach Volleyball has huge potential to grow in Ireland, and our first inland permanent venue will be a game changer. We’d like to thank Sport Ireland and the Campus team for their energy and enthusiasm in developing this historic project.”
Volleyball Ireland will host a range of international and national competitions at the facility, including the Beach Volleyball Intervarsity and International Small Countries u19 Championship in late July.
Information of programme and court bookings will open soon.
