Message from the Mayor of Larne

On behalf of the Alderman, Councillor and Officers of Larne Borough Council, I am delighted to pass on congratulations to Larne Tech Old Boys Association on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary. The Council has had a fond working relation with the Club over the years, with the Clubhouse and playing pitch being on Council land at Antiville Playing fields. The club has been a willing supporter of Civic events and acts as an excellent ambassador for the Borough in all its activities. I pay tribute to the Officers of the Club who freely give of their time and talents and wish the club every success in all its activities both on and off the playing field. I trust the club has a very successful anniversary and the events planned are well supported.

Cllr Mrs Joan Drummond
(Mayor of Larne)

INTRODUCTION

By Mr Adam McKinley, C Eng., M.I. Mech., E., Founder Member and President of the Association since 1973.

Mr James H. Cathcart, who was appointed to the post of Principal of Larne Technical School in 1947, often spoke of his desire to form a past pupils organization in connection with the school. As a former teacher in charge of football at the school he also felt there was a need for a football team to which students leaving the school could progress. There was no organized football in Larne at that time but he had seen the success of the local Church of Ireland team which competed in the NI Churches League.

In linking both "dreams" he came up with the thought that a soccer team of former students should be formed to compete in an appropriate league. He discussed the idea with several "Old Boys" and, satisfied with the positive response, he then investigated the possibility of league football. again he was encouraged by the favorable comments of league officials, so a decision was made to call a meeting of "all ex-students interested in football".

At that meeting the proposal was accepted by the enthusiastic gathering and Mr Cathcart reminded those present that the "Tech School" football team had always been run as a proper club with all the usual officials and would therefore be no problem in finding suitable young men to take office in the new club. "It was natural progression", he said. Several of the lades present on that occasion who were past "officers" of the school club were elected to establish and sum the new initiative. James Henry Cathcart was very pleased with the outcome.

Those who attended that inaugural meeting had no plans for the years ahead, the important issues was to set up a football team and raise funds to keep it alive.

Tom Wilson, in writing this history of the "Tech Old Boys", shows how that team grew into a most successful Association. The current strength and status of the Association bears witness to the commitment of successive generations of young men - this book is a recognition of their hard work.

On behalf of all present and former "Old Boys" I pay tribute to Tom for the long hours he has spent in recording this important part of Larne's social history. I hope you enjoy reading it.