· Sligo biopharmaceutical company becomes ‘Diamond Partner’ in new multi-year agreement

· New sporting partnership part of the biopharmaceutical company’s support of local communities and sports organisations

· ‘AbbVie Academy’ will assist emerging young male and female talent in the region

· New collaboration launched at a special event in the Showgrounds

June 2024: Sligo Rovers and local biopharmaceutical company, AbbVie, have announced a new multi-year sporting partnership. A key aspect of the new collaboration is the establishment of the ‘AbbVie Academy’ which will support the development of youth soccer in the northwest region. The new agreement also sees the company become match shirt sponsor of the U20 boys and U19 girls academy teams.

This company’s collaboration with the supporter-owned Sligo League of Ireland club reflects AbbVie’s support of local communities and sports organisations. The project will help the club raise identify and develop emerging talent in the region. AbbVie is also the main sponsor of Sligo GAA and LGFA senior football teams.

The company has two plants in Sligo, one in Ballytivnan and the other on the Manorhamilton Road, employing more than 500 people in total. Many of the company’s Sligo employees are keen supporters of the club and already involved in grassroots activities and the development of the game.

Commenting on the new agreement, Georges El Damaa, Site Director at AbbVie Manorhamilton Road, Sligo said: “We are pleased to officially announce the launch of our partnership with Sligo Rovers. We take pride in supporting an organisation that aligns with our dedication to the community and our emphasis on inclusivity. Together, we will empower young people to achieve their full potential.”

Michael Gallagher, Site Director at AbbVie Ballytivnan, Sligo welcomed the new partnership and said: “We are excited to work alongside Sligo Rovers in identifying and nurturing emerging talent. We look forward to a successful and impactful partnership that will benefit individuals, the wider local community and the sport in general.”

Andy Feakins, CEO of Sligo Rovers, said: “Sligo Rovers FC are excited to have AbbVie as one of our Diamond Partners. With this partnership, the company are supporting ‘The AbbVie Academy’ at The Showgrounds. The Academy is where identified young male and female talent, from 14 to 20, hone their skills under the tutelage of experienced coaches. The ’AbbVie Academy’ will also be utilised by the wider football community. We will offer sporting programmes, education, training and fun to a wide variety of children and adults via our newly launched Community Initiative, overseen by our Football Social Responsibility Officer.

“As a community club partnering with this highly reputable global brand, we will jointly support development of youth and adults across a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds for the betterment of individuals and the region.”