Brendan Rodgers visits Maltina Park in Carnlough to see progress on new cross community sports facility

Brendan and Charlotte Rodgers with some members of the Stoneyhill Committee, who oversee and administer the Maltina Park project.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and his wife Charlotte made a special visit to Maltina Park in Carnlough on Saturday (11 October) to view the impressive progress of a new cross community sports complex being developed on the Antrim coast.

The facility — a collaboration between St John’s Camogie Club and Carnlough Swifts FC — has been named Maltina Park in a touching tribute to Rodgers’ parents. The clubs described it as “a name that will forever honour their legacy.”

A club spokesperson previously explained:

“The decision to name the ground Maltina Park reflects Brendan’s remarkable generosity, his unwavering support for our community, and his deep personal connection to the name Maltina. It represents the values of family, dedication, and resilience that his parents instilled in him—qualities that Brendan carries forward in his life and work.”

Major Community Investment

The visit gave Rodgers and his wife an opportunity to see first-hand the results of Phase 1 of the project, which has now been completed.

The work included pitch drainage installation, a new playing surface, and high-quality catch nets, creating a strong foundation for the development’s next stage.

Eamon McFadden, Chairman of St John’s Camogie Club, said the couple were impressed by the progress and the community’s dedication to the project.

“It was brilliant to show Brendan and Charlotte around and highlight all the completed work from Phase 1, as well as the exciting plans ahead for Phase 2,” Mr McFadden said.

“Brendan and Charlotte took the time to walk the full site, ask questions, and take in the scale of the project. They are both genuinely thrilled to be part of something so special, which will benefit St John’s Camogie Club, Carnlough Swifts FC, and many other local clubs and groups.”

Phase 2 Plans Underway

The next phase of development will include the construction of a ball wall and new changing facilities, featuring a fully equipped gym.

The upgraded amenities will be shared by both sporting clubs and opened up for use by the wider Carnlough and Glenarm communities, providing long-term social and sporting benefits.

Chairman McFadden continued:

“This is a truly transformative project for the area, and Brendan Rodgers has expressed how delighted he is with the progress so far and the positive impact Maltina Park will have on the entire community.

“As well as the fantastic ongoing support from Brendan Rodgers, this project has also been strongly backed by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, along with incredible help from both our clubs’ members and supporters.

“Having a Camogie Club and a Football Club working together towards a shared vision is a remarkable achievement and a shining example of what true community collaboration can accomplish. It shows what can be achieved when people come together with a common goal to create opportunities for everyone.”

A Lasting Legacy

The Maltina Park project marks a major milestone for local sport and community development in Carnlough and Glenarm.

Once complete, the facility will provide a shared home for both men’s and women’s sport — reflecting the values of inclusivity, teamwork, and legacy that Rodgers’ family name now symbolises.