Blackrock College RFC executives, players, members and honoured guests were on hand to celebrate the official opening of the new Physiotherapy Centre at Stradbrook last month.
Dedicated to the late Barry O’Keeffe (RIP), his wife, Madeleine, and family members were also present for the ceremony where a commemorative plaque was revealed to recognise the late member’s achievements at Stradbrook. The new facility received a special blessing from honorary life member, Father Tom Nash.
Barry was a former teacher and Dean at Blackrock College and is considered as one of the club’s greatest supporters, a man who was always concerned for players’ welfare as well as their health and fitness.
He taught and mentored many club members and was a highly regarded and respected presence in Stradbrook, serving as a coach, selector, Honorary Secretary, President and a friend to so many. He will always be fondly remembered.
Blackrock College RFC set out four years ago to upgrade club facilities by building a gym, installing floodlights on the main pitch and the final piece of upgrading the physiotherapy centre, showers and medical room. The shower blocks and physio centre were recently completed and now offers players at Stradbrook some of the best facilities of any club in Ireland.
Executive Chairman Declan Carroll, who initiated the project said: “We have had an overwhelming amount of support for this project and Saturday’s ceremony was the culmination of an incredible effort by the club. I know Barry would have been proud.”
