Kerry Group Invests €1 Million in Phase 2 of Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence
Kerry Group has today announced a €1 million investment in the expansion of the Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence in Currans, Farranfore.
The funding will be used to assist the completion of Phase 2 works on the existing facility, supporting its transformation into a world-class sporting campus and bringing Kerry Group’s total investment in the facility to €2 million.
Opened in December 2022, the Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence serves as the training and development nucleus for Kerry GAA, fostering excellence, inclusivity, community engagement and innovation.
Phase 2 facilities will include:
- Three new pitches: Two additional sand-based floodlit pitches and one cutting-edge Astro Turf pitch, ensuring year-round training access for all Kerry inter-county teams.
- Team analysis room: Equipped with the latest technology for performance evaluation and strategy development.
- Sports rehabilitation department: Featuring wet areas, plunge pools, rehab machines, and an isometric assessment suite for recovery and injury prevention.
- High-performance gym: A modern facility supporting athlete conditioning and peak performance.
- Players’ lounge and dining kitchen: A welcoming space for team bonding and relaxation.
- Community walking track: Open to locals and visitors, fostering inclusivity and engagement.
The development is scheduled to get underway this month and is due for completion by 2026.
Catherine Keogh, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Kerry Group, said:
“At Kerry, we’re dedicated to making a difference, whether through our sponsorship of Kerry GAA or our innovative work with customers to create healthier, tastier, and more sustainable products for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
Our partnership with the GAA dates back to 1987, initially supporting coaching initiatives and juvenile team development. As title sponsor of all Kerry intercounty teams since 1991, we’re proud to be investing in the future of Gaelic games in Co. Kerry.
This investment in the Centre of Excellence is a testament to our commitment to the local community. By nurturing developing talent, we’re confident that it will sow the seeds of success for generations to come.
Quote from county board: Patrick O’Sullivan, Chairperson, Kerry County Board GAA
“Kerry County Board GAA warmly welcomes this generous investment in the Centre of Excellence by our longstanding sponsor, Kerry Group. This marks the second €1 million contribution from Kerry Group, matching their initial investment in 2013 for Phase 1.
Kerry Group’s sponsorship is unparalleled in GAA history, but their support extends far beyond the financial. They are true partners, deeply invested in what we do and in the wellbeing of everyone involved in Kerry GAA. We extend our deepest gratitude to Kerry Group, particularly Chairperson Tom Moran, CEO Edmond Scanlon, and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Catherine Keogh, for this tremendous gesture.
Our Centre of Excellence has become a vital hub for everything positive and progressive in Kerry GAA. It embodies our commitment to providing top-tier facilities, coaching, and player development within a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment. The GAA is integral to Kerry’s community, and we are immensely proud of our teams, clubs, and players. This investment will allow us to better support everyone as they pursue their sporting dreams. Ciarraí Abú!”
About Kerry Group:
Kerry is a sustainable nutrition company bringing together the best and brightest experts and science-backed innovation to create tastier, healthier, and more sustainable products.
In five decades, we have evolved into an international team 22,000 strong, with 1,100 dedicated R&D scientists working with some of the world’s most innovative food, beverage, and pharmaceutical companies.
With 70+ technology and innovation centres and 137 manufacturing locations, we are a globally connected, locally-led business shaping the future of food and beverages. Making sure nutritious choices are more accessible to more people globally.
This is what it is to create a world of sustainable nutrition. And, at Kerry, this is not just our vision – it’s our active, every day, science-backed action.
For media inquiries, please contact:
[Emma Sweeney] [PRO.Kerry@gaa.ie] [086 078 5745]
[Mark Faherty [Mark.Faherty@kerry.com] [087 125 0275]
By Emma Sweeney Wed 22nd Jan