No different than any other GAA club the length and breadth of Ireland, Bective GFC has had a chequered history with several ups and plenty of downs. One way in which the club differs greatly from the vast majority of GAA clubs, perhaps, is that its hinterland has been redefined a couple of times in the past 50 years. While many clubs are either the life and soul of a single parish, or face the different benefits and obstacles of representing a good-sized town, Bective has found itself caught in the middle. Rural GAA clubs might be the pride of a village, the essence of local identity along with the school, pub and church. Town teams face a different challenge – a much wider pick of potential players, but lots of other distractions for their attention.
For much of our history, Bective has occupied this middle ground between the two: a country club near the town, and a town club beyond the suburbs. Two of the early fields used were in Kilmessan parish but Bective is now firmly established as a third club within the boundaries of Navan Parish. As the crow flies, the distance from Grange Bective to Bective Crossroads is not far at all across the Boyne, but to travel by car it’s a circuitous route via Connell’s Cross or Bellinter, skirting through the parishes of Kilmessan and Dunderry.
A good community spirit has built up over the years within the club and its environs leading to a comprehensive integration with the local Cannistown National School, who regularly use our facilities. In time, we hope that more and more Navan boys and girls, men and women, will avail of our viable, thriving club.
The last half-century has had loads of ups and downs. The next half-century – who knows where it will take us? If you’re reading this and you’re looking to play an active part in a vibrant club, please get in touch – we’d love to have you on board!
