Friday 3rd May, 2024 Kilkenny. Kilkenny-based software technology group, CluneTech, has been announced as the main sponsor of both the Kilkenny GAA Academy (Cait na Óga) and the Kilkenny Camogie Academy, at a launch event in UPMC Nowlan Park on Thursday, May 2nd.
As part of a three year deal, all Kilkenny hurling and Camogie academy team jerseys will carry the CluneTech logo.
The academies, which were launched in January this year, were established to provide a pathway for emerging young talent within Kilkenny. This new and exciting relationship coincides with the recent announcement of the integration plan for the Camogie Association, LGFA and the Gaelic Athletic Association. Kilkenny are leading the way in utilising this opportunity to bring both associations closer together before 2027, which has been set as the official deadline for full integration. Both associations are currently supporting in excess of 500 players through the academy pathway, with their main purpose being to support each player’s development across all components of the game.
The costs of running multiple academy teams in any given year are substantial, from running buses, equipment, food, gear and medical treatment to name a few. To strive for higher levels of performance, a healthy environment needs to be not only created, but sustained for our younger generation players. This funding will contribute to implementing structures and supports over the next three years for both associations.
PJ Kenny, Kilkenny GAA Chairman, said “Kilkenny GAA are delighted to welcome CluneTech on board as our new academy sponsor and we look forward to a successful partnership into the future.”
Terry Clune, CluneTech CEO and Founder, said: “At CluneTech, we are passionate about supporting the development of our future generation and it gives us tremendous honour to sponsor Kilkenny’s GAA and Camogie Academies. The commitment and dedication exhibited by these athletes at such a young age is inspirational and we’re incredibly proud to play a role in solidifying a future of excellence in both sports here in Kilkenny. The values of these academies align tremendously with our core values and #OneTeam culture, and we are really excited to begin this great partnership. Sincere thanks to the many people involved in making this happen!”
Theresa Aylward, Kilkenny Camogie Chairperson said “Kilkenny Camogie are delighted with our partnership with CluneTech, we share many common elements such as values, standards and identity. CluneTech is also well renowned as a Best Workplace for Women and with their passion we can develop and support our young Camogie players to reach their potential within Kilkenny’s high performing environment.”
Michael Fennelly, Kilkenny GAA Performance Lead said “We currently have eight teams in our Na Cait Óga academy which requires an army of volunteer coaches along with funding the running costs of the academy pathway. We have introduced new resources and initiatives that will require consistent funding year on year to support with players development. With CluneTech’s financial support, this can be achieved.”
Eoghan Cooney, Kilkenny Camogie Treasurer, “We are delighted to have CluneTech join our team as sponsor of our underage Development squads and Academy for the next three years. Terry Clune and his team have been a pleasure to deal with, their generous support will help us to level the playing field for our young female athletes as we progress towards full integration with our GAA family.”
This sponsorship is part of CluneTech’s award-winning CSR Programme, CluneTech Cares. Established in 2007, CluneTech Cares is created by their people, for their people, and while the programme supports deserving charities and causes all over the world, it is driven by employee requests and has a momentous impact locally, both in Kilkenny where they are headquartered, and in the various other communities where the company operates.
By Mary Morgan Fri 3rd May
