His connection to soccer stretches back decades. Declan’s introduction to soccer began with Billy Cavanagh. At a time when GAA dominated the parish, Billy simply wanted a team for his son. What followed was the formation of an under-12 side, built largely from GAA players, travelling across North Tipperary to play matches.

Billy stayed involved for years, guiding players from underage into junior level. When Billy stepped away, Declan stepped forward. In his thirties, he began working with underage teams, continuing the cycle that had started with him. Over time, there were highs (like reaching the last sixteen of a national under-16 competition) that proved what a small club could achieve.

But unlike larger clubs, Shinrone FC has not always been continuous. Teams would form, disappear, and return again years later. Still, one thing remained constant: soccer never fully stopped. “The pitch has never been idle,” Declan reflects.

A particular source of pride is the women’s team, which has existed consistently for over twenty years, which is a rare achievement in the area. Their success, including league titles and cup finals, stands as a testament to commitment. Even more remarkable is the legacy they’ve created, with former players now parents of international athletes.

Today, Shinrone FC survives and grows by reaching beyond its borders. Numbers are always a challenge, so the club relies on welcoming players from outside the immediate parish. A single player returning from school with friends can be the difference between fielding a team or not.

As Declan describes it, the club is no longer just Shinrone, that adaptability has allowed it to continue, even when resources are limited.

At present, the club fields one underage team (an under-14 girls side) alongside three adult teams. Recent years have brought significant progress. The men’s teams, once non-existent, have grown rapidly, winning multiple league titles and rebuilding a strong playing base.

This growth reflects resilience and willingness to rebuild when circumstances demand it.

Looking ahead, Declan sees both opportunities and challenges. Financial pressure remains constant, and as a secondary sport in the community, soccer often struggles for attention and support. Fundraising is ongoing, and help is always needed.

The focus for the future is to develop underage teams, introduce more children to the game, and create a pathway that ensures continuity. Efforts have already begun, with coaching initiatives in local schools and the involvement of experienced figures like Sylvia Gee, bringing new energy and expertise.

There is also an opportunity to embrace diversity, with increasing numbers of children from different backgrounds engaging with the sport — broadening its reach within the community.

Declan’s own motivation comes from a family deeply rooted in community service. Soccer became his way of continuing that tradition.

The rewards, he says, are lasting. Players he coached decades ago still return to thank him. It is a reminder that impact is not always measured in trophies, but in people.