Semple Stadium
Semple Stadium is the home of hurling for Tipperary GAA and for the province of Munster. Located in Thurles, County Tipperary, it is the second largest stadium in Ireland (after Croke Park), with a capacity of 53,000. Over the decades since 1926, it has established itself as the leading venue for Munster hurling followers, hosting the Munster Hurling Final on many memorable occasions.FacilitiesThe main or 'Old Stand' of the ground lies across from the 'New Stand' both of which are covered. Behind the goals are two uncovered terraces known as the 'Town End' and the 'Killinan End' respectively.In April 2006, Tipperary County Board announced an €18 million redevelopment plan for the Stadium. The three-year project aimed to boost capacity to over 55,000, as well as providing a wide range of modern facilities such as corporate space concessions, dining and changing areas within both main stands. There were also plans to upgrade the standing terraces and instal a modern floodlighting facility. Phase one of the upgrade project, upgrading the Kinnane Stand side of the stadium, involved expenditure of €5.5 million.On 14 February 2009, the new state of the art floodlights were switched on by GAA President Nickey Brennan before the National Hurling League game against Cork.
