Dermot Desmond, Henrik Larsson and Brendan Rodgers were among the Celtic delegation in Manhattan last night for the Celtic FC Foundation’s annual New York Gala Dinner. And the club today reported that an incredible sum of $355,000 was raised for good causes as around 350 guests enjoyed a brilliant night of Celtic entertainment with the curious addition of Deacon Blue playing live.
And Celtic Supporters’ Clubs in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia and Dallas were all represented and maybe someone from one of these clubs will provide us with an update on what was said by Brendan Rodgers and Dermot Desmond?
Hosted by Hugo Straney, the evening kicked off with a Celtic FC Foundation welcome and vote of thanks from Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton. Tony then welcomed Henrik Larsson to join him on stage for a fantastic Q&A as the King of Kings spoke of his love for the Club and some of his greatest memories during his time in the Hoops.
Dermot Desmond was presented with a Business Award and in his speech Celtic’s majority shareholder spoke of his immense pride in the Club’s continued commitment to its charitable heritage, his love for Celtic and his desire to bring further success. More music followed before Brendan Rodgers took part on his own Q&A as Brendan spoke about his favourite Celtic memories, his future aspirations for the Club and his excitement around returning Stateside with the team for the US tour this summer.
Roy Aitken and George McCluskey were both in attendance adding further Celtic legends to the memorable occasion with both stars of the 4-2 game always being happy to interact with the Celtic support. Players of their era took that as part of their role, maybe something that’s been lost in recent times?
Deacon Blue played then the musical highlight being the closing performance from the wonderful Liam McGrandles ended the show. The Celtic FC website explains where the money raised will be spent and the main players have given their thoughts on a wonderful Celtic night very much in the Celtic tradition.
The official Celtic FC website reports:
Funds raised at the Gala will allow the Foundation to continue its work in the city for another year, as well as supporting existing project delivery in Glasgow and in Ireland, to assist vulnerable children, young people and adults. This will include our partnership initiatives with Children’s Aid and Coalition for the Homeless in New York, Paradise Pit Stop in Glasgow and Community Games plus Ability Counts delivery in Ireland.
Gala Committee Chair, Paul Geaney said: “It’s been another wonderful Gala at Cipriani Downtown and I am incredibly grateful to the team at the Foundation and my fellow Committee members for their magnificent efforts.
“The net fundraising total of $355K is outstanding and is due to the incredible kindness and generosity of every single individual and organisation who has played their part. Most importantly, this will have a substantial impact on the Foundation’s work in New York, Glasgow and Ireland as they strive to support children, young people and adults who are vulnerable.
Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, commented: “This was our fifth year in New York and we wouldn’t have gotten past the first one, had it not been for the Gala Dinner Committee, who help us sell this event.
“My sincere thanks to each of them – we are very lucky to have such backing. We’re also very grateful to the masses of Celtic Supporters’ Clubs and others who buy tables and places for the Gala. We wouldn’t do what we do without the Celtic supporters in New York or anywhere else.
“Finally, many thanks to Dermot Desmond, Brendan Rodgers and Henrik Larsson, and, of course, to all of our partners.”
Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s Chief Executive and Foundation Trustee, added: “Thank you to everyone involved in this year’s New York Gala. All those who attended and supported on the night contributed to a fantastic Celtic evening, and the money raised will help Celtic FC Foundation continue to help others in the USA, in Glasgow and in Ireland.
“I would like to thank Paul Geaney for the crucial role he has played in the success of the New York Gala since its inception. We are delighted to learn that the date for next year’s Gala (Thursday, March 20) is in the diary already, and we all look forward to working with the Gala Committee for the continued success of this important event.”
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