LEEDS United Midfielder and Clones native, Jonathan Douglas, has praised the efforts of all those involved in the ambitious Clones Sports Complex plans this week.
In an exclusive interview with the Post, Jonathan said this development is the boost his hometown needs.
“I am happy to see the Town getting the funds for the new Sports Complex. It’s been a long time coming. A lot of work has gone into getting the funds so they [the committee driving the project] should be applauded.”
Resulting from a combined five year effort from the Clones Community Forum, St Tiernach’s GFC and Clones Athletics Club, the partnership plan to develop a multi-million state-of-the-art facility at Millbrook, Clones. The 14 acre site will include an all weather pitch surrounded by a 400m running track, a new GAA pitch with provision for a future covered stand, a changing pavilion and parking facilities. The main building will contain 8 changing rooms, a gymnasium, large function room, kitchen, conference room, reception area and offices.
“I think when the sports complex and the new Clones Town pitches are up and running it will give the Town the boost it’s needed for years. Hopefully more and more kids will make it big in football as well as other sports with the provision of the new facility,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan started out playing football at the Clones Town Juvenile Club in the late 1980s and has paid tribute to the local coaches who encouraged him as a young footballer.
“They were very important, without them giving there time there would be no under age football in the town. I was lucky to have the late Paul Johnson around when I was growing up who would bring me and the lads to all our matches. I think when he passed on the town and football in the town itself suffered.”