Another incredible night for Celtic FC Foundation in New York City | OneFootball

On Thursday evening Celtic FC Foundation hosted its annual New York Gala Dinner. Once again, it was a tremendous success, raising an astonishing net total in excess of $360,000, which included a very generous contribution from the Club to match funds raised during the pledge drive element of the event.

The Gala, which was sponsored by Qrypt, returned to the beautiful setting of Cipriani 25 Broadway for a fourth consecutive year, as we were joined by around 340 guests, including businesses, individuals and representatives from a host of Celtic Supporters’ Clubs from across North America.

Host Hugo Straney was joined on stage by two Celtic greats in Brian McClair and Joe Hart who both spoke very passionately of their time at the Club.

And there was live music through the evening from Tenor, Blake Friedman, and Celtic Park favourite, Liam McGrandles, as well as Irish dancing with a twist, from five-time world champion Irish dancers and social media sensations, the Gardiner Brothers.

Chair of our New York Gala Committee, Connie Boville, expressed her thanks to the audience for supporting the Foundation’s work in the USA. Connie and her fellow Committee members have worked tirelessly to ensure another successful New York Gala for Celtic FC Foundation.

Business Honoree, Howard Boville, accepted his honour and spoke of his love for the Club, its founding principles and the importance of the Foundation’s role in carrying on that charitable ethos.

Our resident auctioneer, Pat Tully hosted the Live Auction and Pledge Drive in his own inimitable style.

Funds raised at the Gala will allow the us to continue our work in the city, as well as supporting project delivery in Glasgow and in Ireland, assisting vulnerable children, young people and adults.

This will once again include our partnership initiatives with Children’s Aid and Coalition for the Homeless in New York, Paradise Pit Stop in Glasgow and Community Games in Ireland.

Gala Committee Chair, Connie Boville said: “It has been a tremendous honour to once again Chair our fantastic Gala Committee, who have worked so hard to support this event. We are deeply appreciative of the time and effort they have dedicated.

“Working closely with the Foundation team to deliver such a fantastic occasion has been a true privilege. Raising a net total in excess of $360K is an extraordinary achievement and is both truly inspiring and deeply humbling.

"The generosity and kindness shown by everyone who attended the Gala, as well as those who contributed prizes and gifts, played a huge part in making the evening so memorable.

“The positive impact this will have on the Foundation’s work here in New York, in Glasgow and in Ireland, cannot be overstated.

“We would also like to sincerely thank Brian, Joe, Blake, Liam, the Gardiner Brothers, Pat and Hugo for their important contributions in making the event such a success.”

Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, commented: “Once again, our Gala Dinner Committee has done an outstanding job. This event would simply not be possible without the tremendous commitment of that group and we are extremely grateful for their continued backing.

“I would like to express our gratitude and congratulations to our 2026 Business Honoree, Howard Boville, who’s support of our efforts over many years has been unwavering and truly invaluable.

“Thanks also to each and every individual and organisation who purchased tables or seats, including the many representatives from Celtic supporters’ clubs in attendance, including those from New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Miami, Nashville, Dallas, Pittsburgh and Montreal.

“Finally, I would like to extend sincere thanks to our sponsor, Qrypt, as well as everyone who contributed in some way, towards making this another magnificent evening for Celtic FC Foundation in New York City.”

Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s Chief Executive and Foundation Trustee, added: “Everyone at Celtic Football Club is extremely thankful to all those who played a part in making this year’s New York Gala such a marvellous success. It was another fantastic evening, celebrating everything that makes our Club so special.

“The remarkable amount raised will have a meaningful impact on the Foundation’s essential work in New York, across Ireland and closer to home, in Glasgow.

“The Foundation is the beating heart of the Football Club and it’s wonderful to witness the phenomenal support from so many quarters. Thank you for everything you do for the Club and the Foundation.”

Celtic FC Foundation would like to thank those who donated prizes for the auctions, Loch Lomond Whiskies and New York Distilling Company for a complimentary bottle on each table, every table and ticket holder, and the Celtic Supporters’ Clubs who joined us from across North America.

Please don’t ever underestimate the difference you have made.