Dundalk FC crowned League of Ireland Cairdeas Cup Champions
Hundreds of fans including parents, families and friends attended the National Indoor Sports Centre in Abbotstown to see 120 players, representing 12 League of Ireland clubs who had been preparing for this festival since last year's inaugural event.
The improvement in the players since last year's event was clearly evident with all matches very keenly contested. LOI Clubs from all over the country were represented including Bohemians, Bray Wanderers, Cork City, Derry City, Drogheda United, Dundalk, Finn Harps, Shelbourne, Sligo Rovers, St Patrick's Athletic, Waterford and Wexford.
The red-hot favourite to retain the title was Finn Harps who had been victorious in last year's Cairdeas Cup festival.
However, a resilient Dundalk FC team emerged as winners following a thrilling final. Every player, coach, official and volunteer who participated in the festival can be proud of their valuable contribution on the day.
The LOI Down Syndrome programme has gone from strength to strength with LOI Clubs providing opportunities for regular training with the players and support to participate in the festival.
Last year's inaugural event saw nine LOI clubs represented which has now grown to 12 and is expected to continue growing as clubs continue to embrace a wider role in their local communities.
Many of the clubs Football & Social Responsibility Officers were in attendance providing support for the players and families and linking in with brilliant volunteers to make the whole day a remarkable success.
'It's days like this that restores your faith in the purpose of football and how it can positively impact people's lives,' said League of Ireland Football & Social Responsibility Manager, Derek O'Neill.
"The LOI clubs participating should be proud of the players and also proud of the inclusive opportunity they have provided to grow the game in their communities and facilitate participation among a wide range of groups from children to older people and people with disabilities. It's another reason why football is referred to as the beautiful game'.
The Cairdeas Cup is a collaborative project between the League of Ireland and the FAI Football for All programme and has been shortlisted for the Irish Sports Industry Best Initiative to Promote Inclusivity in Sport & Physical Activity.
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