Two attacks were carried out last week at the Waterford Vikings Cricket grounds, causing thousands of Euros in damage.
Vandals initially targeted the artificial turf at the facility, causing approximately €6,000 worth of damage and rendering the pitch unplayable on, as the club approaches the peak of their cricket season. National coverage was afforded to the incident at the grounds in Gracedieu in the aftermath and an online fundraiser was created by the club to help restore and renovate the pitch.
However, several days later, the club were shocked to find a separate attack had occurred, this time directed at the clubhouse itself. Doors, benches, cricket bats, stumps, balls and showers were damaged. The second attack has yet to be calculated in terms of cost but is estimated to be thousands of euros.
Gardaí were called and an investigation is ongoing.
Commenting on the incidents, local Fianna Fáil Councillor Eamon Quinlan said the attacks may have been targeted.
“We have to beat these vandals whether they are motivated by senseless destruction or on a more sinister level, targeting the club on blatantly racist grounds,” said Cllr Quinlan.
“The club were devastated from the initial attack and it was thought it was just down to random anti-social behaviour but that is no longer my view.
“The second attack, in such a short period of time, and the fact that both attacks weren’t just about being random but actually specifically kept targeting the club’s playing equipment, shower facilities, etc indicates to me that the attacks are more about trying to remove the club’s presence or ability to operate, altogether.
He added: “We will call a spade a spade, while the club has numerous Irish members, and more are joining all the time, the majority of members of the club come from countries where cricket is the game. Large numbers of Indian, Pakistani, Bangledeshi, etc are all members.
“To see this community raise serious sums of money privately and invest in a game that has tremendous history in Waterford is wonderful, to put in place sports facilities and allow children and adults of all backgrounds in Waterford to play is a serious success story that is not under threat from those in our society, who I can only refer to as having sinister intent.”
Donations can be made via: