Lough Derg FC to leave NT&DL

By Shane Brophy

The North Tipperary & District League has suffered another blow by the decision of Lough Derg FC to leave and join the Limerick District League.

In doing so, the Ballina/Killaloe club become the third Tipperary club in the Limerick League joining long-standing members Newport Town and Nenagh AFC who re-joined in 2014.

Informing members of the decision, Lough Derg FC said it was done to “provide a pathway from our very successful Schoolboy set-up to adult football.”

“A critical mass of clubs and players in that league means more football for our players and for youths they will play at the appropriate age group.

Last year's jump from under 16s to under 19s proved too wide a gap, resulting in a big loss of Youth players from Lough Derg FC.

“We will miss our friends from the football community around North Tipperary and District League. There are no bad feelings and no bridges burned.

“We look forward to new sporting adventures in Limerick City and beyond and welcoming new visitors to Clarisford Park.”

The decision to leave the North Tipperary League at adult and youths level is likely to have played a part in the decision by Lough Derg FC and Birdhill AFC to halt the proposed merger of their juvenile sections.

Lough Derg officials have told their members the merger has “hit a blocker and won’t be proceeding at this point”. They say they respect the member decision Birdhill AFC and look forward to continued good relationships with its neighbouring club.