See photos as Wicklow Rovers AFC celebrate 50th anniversary with founding members
The event began with a heartfelt introduction by Ross Byrne, who traced the club's journey from humble beginnings, detailing how, through members' unwavering support and tireless efforts, Wicklow Rovers blossomed into the pride of Wicklow, culminating in the senior men's first team's historic quadruple win.
There was a presentation for the club's honorary members, whose names are etched into the very fabric of Wicklow Rovers, with a deeply touching moment seeing the presentation of awards to the club's founding members, acknowledging those who 'bravely started this incredible journey'.
Edward Dunne, Teddy Dunne's son, graciously accepted on behalf of his late father, with Michael Loughlin, John 'Spud' Murphy, Noel McVeigh, Jimmy Culbert, Anthony Earls, Jim Crofton, and Billy Dunne, also honoured.
The spotlight was shone on the club's youth, with the Under 14's team of 2024 receiving a well-deserved presentation, celebrating their historic SFAI South Leinster title in 2024 – the first Wicklow schoolboy team ever to win a Leinster title.
The evening also paid tribute to the growing strength of the Wicklow Rovers Ladies Senior Team, with Louise Johnson presented with the prestigious Sheila Loughlin Player of the Year award, and Molly Sweeney receiving the Top Scorer award.
The achievements of the senior men's teams were also celebrated, with awards presented to top scorers and players of the year across the 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams.
As attendees reflected on the club's glorious past and thriving present, eyes were cast towards the future, with chairman Garry Collins discussing exciting plans for Whitegates and the committee's vision to implement the required infrastructure to ensure the club's continued success, with a key focus being the development of an all-weather pitch at Whitegates.
The night culminated with the presentation of the Volunteer of the Year 2025 award to Johnny Dunne, aka 'Mr. Wicklow Rovers', while Wicklow League committee member Liam Kilbride presented Garry Collins with a special memento, with outgoing committee members Stephen Clarke, Jimmy Nolan, Paul Delaney, and Corrinna Collins honoured.
'It was a heartwarming occasion where generations of the club came together, weaving a tapestry of shared memories, current triumphs, and boundless hope for the future,' a club spokesperson
'Founding members, their families, past players, dedicated past and present committee members, the history-making U14s team of 2024, our incredible quadruple-winning Senior Men's team of 2024-25, and so many other players and supporters gathered to mark this milestone.
'It was an evening that captured the heart and soul of Wicklow Rovers AFC. As we reflect on 50 years of passion, community, and football excellence, we are filled with immense pride in our past, joy in our present achievements, and incredible hope for an even brighter future.'
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