The ‘Bomber Rouse Stand’?

IT has been proposed that the new covered stand at Melvin Arena be named after the late Strabane man and football stalwart, Danny ‘Bomber’ Rouse.

Suggested at a recent full meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council, the proposal was made by Cllr Raymond Barr.

Danny ‘Bomber’ Rouse passed away in August 2010.

Cllr Barr said following the meeting.

“He had a huge influence on the footballing paths of many, many Strabane youths and his own playing days saw him gain international caps at schoolboy, boysclub and youth level. He went on to play with Derry City, Sligo Rovers and was player manager with Omagh Town in the Irish League. He also played in the Fermanagh and Western with Victoria Bridge and in Donegal with Curragh Athletic and Ardara. And of course played with and managed his home-town club Strabane.”

Cllr Barr said he had previously been approached by a number of people about having the stand named in honour of Mr Rouse.

He added, “I will be working with council in the coming days to try and ensure this tribute comes to fruition.”
Work on the much anticipated upgrade of the Melvin Sports Arena in Strabane began in August, as contractors moved on to the site.

The project involves a large scale upgrade of the facilities including a new covered stand for up to 200 people, entrance booths and turnstiles, changing facilities and toilet provision. The work will bring the facility up to the required levels to meet the Premier Intermediate Standard.

Capital investment of £1.15million has been allocated to complete the work, which is part of council’s ambitious portfolio of capital development projects.