Park Celtic was formed in 1988. Its formation was partially inspired by the wave of excitement caused by Ireland’s qualification and performances in Euro 88. However instrumental in the formation of the club was the desire by a small number of people who saw the need to provide an outlet for young people in The Park, Cabinteely and surrounding areas to play soccer. Father Tom O’Keefe inspired the idea and people like Willie Hanlon, Niall Hearn, Derek Rapple, Sean Quigley and others were among those helped get the first Park Celtic teams on to the pitch. The first matches were not played until the 1989/90 season, when four teams were fielded. In the early years it was very much about survival, with most out teams at the lower end of league tables. However slowly but surely as the club found its feet, success on the pitch followed. Soon Park Celtic teams were winning trophies. It has to be said that the club ethos is to play a vital part in the community by providing an opportunity to young people to play sport. While winning matches is important the club also recognizes the importance of giving the opportunity to play in a safe environment where player development and improvement is nurtured.
From very humble beginnings, when having everybody in the same jersey was an achievement through the past 18 years very considerable progress has been made and success achieved. During that time many teams have achieved success both in domestic leagues and at tournaments abroad.
The club now fields 26 teams from Under 7 to Under 18 and also fields three senior teams. It also operates a development squad for 5 and 6 year olds and runs an annual soccer camp.
In April 1998, Paul McGrath, Republic of Ireland international, officially opened club dressing rooms in The Park.
After ten years in the hot seat Willie Hanlon stepped down as chairman and was replaced by Greg McGibney. Around about this time also Niall Hearn, club secretary, also stepped aside and was replaced by Colm Rigley. In recent years Dermott Heffernan replaced Greg when he moved to the U.S. and Aidan Roddy has taken over as secretary. Over the years many others, too many to mention have made huge contributions to the progress the club has made since its formation.