Wes Hoolahan will make his return to Shelbourne Football Club this weekend as he takes part in the celebration to honour the 100th anniversary of Tolka Park.
On Saturday, October 26th, 2024, the club will host a special event at Tolka Park, featuring a commemorative friendly match between a Shelbourne FC XI and a Drumcondra AFC XI, paying tribute to the rich history both clubs share with this iconic ground.
Among the players confirmed for the Shelbourne FC XI are football legends Wes Hoolahan, Damien Duff, and current Shels captain Pearl Slattery, fresh off an FAI Cup final victory. Fans will also get a chance to see Jason Byrne, Stephen Geoghegan, Tony Sheridan, Richie Baker, and Stuey Byrne, among others, gracing the pitch at Tolka Park once again.
Special guests attending this historic occasion include President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, who will join Shelbourne supporters, former and current players, and legends of Irish football to mark Tolka Park’s centenary. Also in attendance will be the family of Shelbourne FC founder James Rowan, who was part of a small group of founders back in 1895, adding a special connection to the day’s celebrations. The Shelbourne FC XI will be managed by Pat Byrne, who guided the Reds to top honours in the 90s.
The winning team will be presented with the Peter O’Connor Memorial Cup, named in honour of Peter O’Connor, a lifelong Shelbourne supporter and volunteer who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Event Highlights:
- Date: October 26th, 2024
- Gates Open: 1 PM
- Time: Kick-off at 2:00 PM
- Venue: Tolka Park
- Admission: Free entry
- Special Guests: President Michael D. Higgins and the family of James Rowan
- Collection: Voluntary donations will be collected for the family of Peter O’Connor, with online donations available here.
In addition to the match, attendees will enjoy a post-match Q&A session with some of the Shels legends and a memorabilia display featuring rare Shelbourne FC items. The game will be streamed live on the Shelbourne FC YouTube channel, with commentary from Declan Drake and a host of Shelbourne FC legends.