Three-year Galgorm partnership to support Cullybackey Blues’ growth

Galgorm Collection has announced a new three-year sponsorship partnership with Cullybackey Blues FC. Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection is pictured alongside Joel Barr and the team from Cullybackey Blues FC. 

A new three-year partnership with Galgorm Collection will help Cullybackey Blues FC invest in player development, training and facilities as the club begins life in the second division of the Kinecx Energy Ballymena Saturday Morning League.

The local hospitality group has agreed to sponsor the club at what Cullybackey Blues has described as an important period of growth both on the pitch and within the community.

The financial value of the partnership has not been disclosed.

Backing for player development and facilities

Cullybackey Blues secured promotion following the conclusion of last season’s Saturday Morning League campaign and strengthened its squad during the summer.

New arrivals Danny Bell, Joe Dunlop, Jordan Stewart and Kaan Avci joined the club ahead of its pre-season preparations and the beginning of competitive football in the Zala Sports Cup.

Joel Barr, from Cullybackey Blues FC, said the support would allow the club to invest beyond its immediate playing commitments.

“Support from businesses like Galgorm Collection is invaluable to clubs like ours. This partnership will enable us to invest further in player development, training and facilities, while strengthening our role within the community.

“We’re incredibly grateful for their backing and excited about what we can achieve together over the next three years.”

‘Particularly meaningful for us’

Galgorm Collection employs more than 1,400 people across Northern Ireland, including team members and families living in the local area.

Its portfolio includes hotels, restaurants and golf experiences, with the company saying the partnership reflects its wider support for grassroots sport and organisations encouraging participation and wellbeing.

Galgorm Collection has announced a new three-year sponsorship partnership with Cullybackey Blues FC. Pictured are, from left, Philip Glass, Club Manager, Cameron McMullan, Captain, Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection and Cllr Tyler Hoey. 

Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, said: “Cullybackey Blues FC is an integral part of the local community, and we’re proud to be entering into this partnership at such an exciting time for the Club.

“Sport plays a vital role in strengthening communities, bringing people together, fostering teamwork and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. With many of our team members and their families based locally, this partnership is particularly meaningful for us.

“As a business employing over 1,400 people across Northern Ireland, we see first-hand the shared values between sport and hospitality, from dedication and resilience to collaboration and a collective drive for success. We’re delighted to support the Club over the next three years and look forward to following their continued progress.”

Councillor helped bring club and Galgorm together

DUP Bannside councillor Tyler Hoey welcomed the partnership after helping to arrange initial discussions between Cullybackey Blues and Galgorm Collection.

Councillor Hoey said:

“I’m delighted to see Cullybackey Blues secure this three-year partnership with Galgorm Collection.

“The club approached me with the idea and I was pleased to help arrange the meeting that brought both parties together.

“This agreement will help strengthen Cullybackey Blues as the club progresses through the new season. I want to thank Galgorm Collection for getting behind the Blues and continuing its commitment to supporting grassroots sport in the local community.

“I wish everyone at the club the very best of luck for the season ahead.”

Wider support for grassroots sport

The agreement adds Cullybackey Blues to a number of sporting organisations and events supported by Galgorm Collection.

The group’s wider community programme includes backing for the North West 200, the Antrim Camogie minor squad and a range of local sports clubs, schools, charities and societies.

For Cullybackey Blues, the three-year commitment provides a longer-term foundation on which to develop its players, improve training and facilities, and build its presence within the village as the club takes on the challenge of second-division football.