Tullamore Town FC and Chasing Abbey team up to release special limited-edition jersey
The collaboration which will support the development of Leah Victoria Park released on November 5
Tullamore Town FC have teamed up with hometown music trio Chasing Abbey and Irish sportswear manufacturer O'Neills to produce a special limited-edition jersey.
Funds raised from the new kit which was released on November 5 will go towards supporting the redevelopment of the club's home ground, Leah Victoria Park.
The collaboration has a particularly special connection to the club, as two of Chasing Abbey's three members played for Tullamore Town from underage football right through to the senior team.
Speaking on the collaboration, Tullamore Town FC said: “We're incredibly proud of Tullamore, its people and the talent that has come from the town. Seeing Chasing Abbey achieve the success they have while remaining connected to their roots is something we're particularly proud of. The lads have never forgotten where they came from, and their willingness to support their former club and local community says a lot about them.”
“For us, this collaboration is about much more than a football jersey. It's about celebrating our town, recognising the achievements of three local lads and showing what can be achieved when people come together to support their community.”
They added: “Chasing Abbey are not receiving any payment or profits from the sale of these jerseys. The band have generously given their time, name and support to the project to give something back to their local community and help a club that played an important part in their younger years.”
Only 500 of the limited-edition jerseys have been produced which are available in adult (€63), youth (€58) and children's (€50) sizes through O'Neills Club Hub while stocks last.
Each jersey features a distinctive black design with Celtic-inspired detailing and gold accents. The back of the jersey features the words ‘Cyber Celt’ which is the title of Chasing Abbey's recently released debut album.
The Tullamore band who are currently on a world tour took to their social media to share their pride at the collaboration. They posted: “So proud to share this collaboration with our hometown soccer club Tullamore Town FC. The club has a special place in our hearts and has brought people together for many years in our community. A massive thank you to O'Neills and all involved, the jersey and visuals are top tier.”
Tullamore Town FC revealed that the response to the jersey launch has been fantastic with tremendous support shown for both the collaboration and the fundraising project.
The Offaly club commented: “It's particularly encouraging to see the pride people have shown in both the club and Chasing Abbey. The support demonstrates the strong connection people have with Tullamore and the importance of maintaining those local roots, regardless of how far life takes you.”
The launch video which is approaching 100,000 views across the club’s social media platforms highlights the huge level of support around the collaboration.
The funds raised through the project will contribute towards an ambitious three-phase redevelopment of Leah Victoria Park, designed to significantly improve the facilities available to current players and future generations.
The first project, scheduled to take place at the end of the current football season, will involve extending the existing AstroTurf pitch and installing a completely new playing surface.
The second phase will see the development of a brand-new, full-size AstroTurf pitch on Pitch 2, complete with a walking track. This will provide additional all-weather playing facilities and an amenity for the wider community.
The final aspect will involve extending the existing grass pitch, further improving the club's playing facilities.
These developments represent a significant investment in the future of Tullamore Town FC and Leah Victoria Park, with the aim of providing high-quality sporting facilities for generations to come.
Tullamore Town FC concluded: “We're extremely grateful to Chasing Abbey, the local businesses supporting the campaign and everyone who has purchased a jersey so far. We're proud to be part of a town where people continue to support one another, and this collaboration is a great example of that community spirit.”