In the picturesque days of my childhood, the sun-drenched tennis courts provided the setting for some of my most cherished memories.
The origin tale of tennis in Kilberry holds deep significance for me. My grandmother, Kathleen McKeever, was visionary in her determination to create opportunities for women to participate in sports. With fourteen children, her sons were involved in hurling and football, leaving little for her eight daughters. As a result, the McKeever family utilized a portion of their farm’s land to establish grass courts, which not only gained local popularity but also attracted clubs from surrounding areas.
Ultimately, the tennis courts found a new home through the combined efforts of my grandparents and local resident, Pat O’Brien. Following the land transfer, the section that once belonged to Pat O’Brien was passed on to the Reilly family, who continue to play a vital role in fostering an active and healthy community in our area.
These courts were the lifeblood of Kilberry, alongside Wolfe Tones and Torro United, fundamentally shaping the sporting culture of our village. It is safe to say that most individuals in this small community possess a proficiency in tennis, even if they have not wielded a racket since childhood.
More than just a sport, tennis served as a unifying force within our community. People of all ages frequented the courts, engaging in friendly matches or simply enjoying lighthearted fun. The diversity of players, including individuals of varying ages, fostered resilience and a drive to prove oneself.
The tennis courts transcended generations, effectively bringing the community together. They provided the youth with a constructive pastime, instilled discipline, and fostered a sense of pride in our community.
Our connection with tennis extended beyond the sport itself; it symbolised a collective journey that united us all, from children to the elderly, creating a sense of kinship in Kilberry that resembled a closely-knit family.
Amidst the laughter and competition, memories of repairing damaged nets, battling persistent moss growth, and embarking on quests to retrieve tennis balls from the cypress trees, which my own father planted at the age of 12, linger as a testament to our unity.
These instances of teamwork and shared purpose, as we diligently worked to mend the wear and tear inflicted by time, reflected the resilience of our community and strengthened our bonds. With each mended net, we wove not only strands of nylon, but also shared memories that further cemented the unity of our community.
Following the Kilberry Amenity Group’s social media post about the tennis courts, an influx of messages poured in from individuals across the globe, sharing their own stories and experiences. This overwhelming response underscores the monumental significance of this special place.
In an era where community connections often feel strained, the overflow of sentiment for these courts serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of communal spaces. The necessity for such gathering venues is more crucial than ever, fostering a sense of togetherness that is often lacking in today’s insular societies.
As adults, our aspiration is to rekindle the blissful memories of our childhood and revive the courts for the next generation. We recognise the need for communal spaces where local youths can congregate without pressure and feel a sense of belonging, regardless of their background. It is not merely about creating a trendy hangout; it’s about establishing a community hub where individuals of all ages can converge, share stories, and create new memories. Our aim is for our neighbourhood to be a place where a sense of belonging permeates every aspect of our lives.