The Shadow Minister for Northern Ireland, Tonia Antoniazzi MP, has praised Coleraine Football Club's will to push ahead for funding despite the setback of missing out in the last round of the Levelling Up fund.
On a visit to The Showgrounds last week the Labour MP commended the club on their plans to redevelop the Ballycastle Road venue and its desire to push ahead with the project.
"I'm really disappointed the club didn't get the Levelling Up bid, there will be future opportunities," she said.
Read next: From ice baths to star jumps, the Michael Halliday factor sweeping Bangor FC
"The club won't be knocked down by not getting it this time.
"I'm impressed by that, it takes a lot of strength to say you're not going to stop fighting for Coleraine Football Club and you're going to keep going.
"That has been evident in the meetings I have had with the club today."
Coming from a sporting background having played international rugby for Wales, Ms Antoniazzi is familiar with the social return on investment sports clubs bring to their communities.
"It's tremendous to walk around and see the vision the club has. The future plans are very, very exciting," she said.
"The club has a great space to work with and develop.
"I've seen the community opportunities here, it's just making those opportunities a reality.
"What the club offers already is done to them working with the facilities they have and developing what you've got.
"I really want to see the club have the opportunity to do more, to bring in more people and bring the communities together.
"The boys and girls who run out onto that pitch are enjoying their football and getting the best out of the club.
"What the club has given for nearly 100 years is absolutely tremendous.
"The football club is at the heart of the community, to be here and see the facility you have here and the passion you have is fantastic.
"The board's passion for the future of this club and the community is really, really impressive.
"Even as a rugby fan it strikes a chord with me."
Ms Antoniazzi was presented with a Coleraine FC scarf, which she said she would 'wear with great pride'.
Club Chairman Colin McKendry thanked her for her support of the Bannsiders and assured her that the club would continue to pursue its funding aspiration to further develop The Showgrounds in advance of its 100th anniversary in 2027.
READ NEXT:
- Belfast football club hits out over alleged sectarian abuse at league game
Co Derry artist hailed for brilliant 'lifelike' Lionel Messi painting
Dungannon Swifts teen who has scored 30 goals this season signs pro deal
Lee Feeney opens up on sack fears as he outlines 'priority' for Bangor
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
