| 1924 |
Abbeylara handball alley was originally
built. Stone and money was gathered locally and all work carried
out at this time was done voluntarily. Handball was played there
continuously into the late 1950's. The game was played on and
off throughout the 60's, 70's and 80's when the alley began to
fall into disrepair. |
| 1995 |
The alley, now in a deplorable state, was in danger
of being demolished. The local community considered this unthinkable
as it represented the only sports facility and recreational area
in the village itself and also perhaps the possible demise of
the 'tradition' of the playing of the game of handball in this
part of the county. The Abbeylara Handball Alley Restoration Committee
was formed and background work and fundraising began. |
| 1997 |
The handball alley was restored and extended. The
Handball Club was formed and registered with the Irish Handball
Council and officially opened by, the then IHC President, Mr.
Con Moore. Most of the work carried out at this time was also
on a voluntary basis - £9,000 was gathered locally and the
project was grant aided £5,000 from Lottery funds. |
| 1998/1999 |
The perimeter fence was erected. This addressed
many concerns as regards the safety of our members as the Court
is an outdoor facility and is situated along a busy main road.
£5,000 was raised by the club and £10,000 was grant
aided from the National Lottery Funds under the Recreational Facilities
Scheme. |
| 2000/to date |
These years have seen the 'building up' of the
Club itself. on going fundraising efforts continue to fund the
day to day running of the club, the running of tournaments and
the participation in competitions. |
