Bohemian FC and Connolly Books to launch Jersey Store in Dublin

Bohemian FC and Connolly Books have announced the launch of their collaborative Jersey Store, set to take place at Connolly Books in Dublin on Saturday, January 31 at 1-4PM. The launch will be followed by a party, featuring music by DJ Sally Cinnamon and appearances from Bohemian FC players, musicians, political activists, and the general public.

The merchandise store will offer jerseys, featuring bands such as Fontaines DC, Thin Lizzy, Oasis, and Kneecap. Many of them will also include slogans like ‘Refugees are Welcome’, ‘Better in a Trade Union’, as well as the colours of the Palestinian flag. A portion of the merch sales will go to various organisations that assist people in challenging circumstances around the world like UNICEF, several sports clubs in Palestine, and Irish Community Care Manchester.

Bohemian FC, established in 1890, is one of the oldest fan-owned football clubs in the world, and a founding member of the League of Ireland. Connolly Books is the oldest political bookshop in the country, established in 1932, and located in Dublin's Temple Bar on 43 East Essex Street.

"Connolly Books and Bohs have a relationship going back several years," said Connolly Books manager and Bohemian FC member, Aaron Nolan.

"The shop has a sponsorship deal with the club and an advertising hoarding in Dalymount. However, it is the shared ethos of collectivism, solidarity and community that links our bookshop and Ireland’s biggest fan-owned football club the most, he added".

Bohemian FC Chief Commercial Officer, Dan Lambert, said: "Our jersey sales bring in essential funds that enable our club to operate sustainably, as we go up against other League of Ireland clubs owned by billionaires and multinational sports franchises".

"They also support causes that our fanbase are passionate about. From Palestine, to local bands such as Aslan and St Francis hospice, to international artists who share our ethos and values - the jerseys are a testament to the importance to many of football, music and progressive causes. They are part of Bohs’ commitment to being a force for good," he added.

The news follow Bohemians' season opening match against St. Patrick's Athletic in the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, February 8.