Destruction of our school soccer pitch by mindless vandals

Sometime between Friday evening last, the 9th January, and the early hours of Saturday morning, an individual or individuals deliberately drove a car/vehicle onto our school grounds and onto our soccer pitch. What followed was an act of sheer vandalism and complete disregard for our school community, as they proceeded to tear up the pitch by performing donuts across the perfect grass surface.

This pitch was in excellent condition being prepared for soccer matches this week. In a matter of minutes, it has been left completely destroyed. The cost of repairing this damage will run into thousands of euro — money that should be spent on students’ education, facilities, and opportunities, not cleaning up after the reckless, selfish actions of someone who clearly had no respect for others. Because of this mindless behaviour, the school will now be left out of pocket, and our students will suffer the consequences.

We will be forced to source alternative pitches, organise and pay for transport, and bus students to upcoming matches, causing major disruption and additional expense. This was not an accident. It was a deliberate, idiotic act that has robbed students of a facility they value and take pride in. Anyone with information is urged to come forward.

Thank you to the local community for your support and to the person who has put up a large reward for information about those responsible. Clane Gardai have been out to the school this morning and are carrying out an investigation.