MALAHIDE UNITED has invested in 10 nets for the small-sided goals at Gannon Park.

Malahide United's 11 Premier check out the quality of the new nets at Gannon Park

These are made from the best of material by a Howth fish-net maker and no doubt they will serve the club well.
By prioritising safety and by proper care and attention in looking after these nets, we can all ensure that we get years of use out of them.

Everyone can play their part in maintaining them. Recognise that damage and breakages can be inflicted - even on strong nets - and the biggest cuplrit with the old nets were the heavy black weights used to hold the net frame down.

By simply placing the weight on the bottom bar at the back of the net, you will be ensuring that proper safety precautions are in place (see image).

This is the preferred method as opposed to simply throwing the weights on the back of the nets. This may keep the net in place but not neccessairily the goal itself.

By throwing the weights onto the back of the net leads to accelerated wear and tear and everyone can help ensuring that they are kept in tip top condition by following a few simple guidelines.

^ MANAGERS should instruct young players not to carry the weights as this can lead to injury, if they are accidently dropped.

^ The movement of goals should be supervised by adults at all times.

^ PLAYERS are NOT allowed to swing or carry out any gymnastic exercises on goal equipment.

^ MAKE sure the goals are correctly assembled before use and that connecting poles are firmly pushed home.

^ BEFORE use, a supervising adult should ensure that the goalposts are properly weighted and stable.

^ENSURE the anchor weights lie across the bottom pole as displayed in the picture and not across the net.

^ PLAYERS should be encouraged to work on individual ball skills by juggling a ball, rather than simply blasting ball after ball into the net in advance of training sessions.

^ ENJOY the facilities that Gannon Park has to offer but remember, a little bit of common sense can ensure a safe environment for all to train and exercise in.


^ THE FAI website has a comprehensive article on goalpost safety which managers might wish to read. Click the image below (this image/link has been on our homepage for the past 6 months)

Also click here!

Eamon Scott 29/10/06