5 days ago
Dundalk FC hosting two family walks at Oriel Park for Not Around Us vaping awareness campaign
Families are invited to Oriel Park on Saturday, August 16 at 2pm and Saturday, August 23 at 11am to take part in a short, lapped walk around the pitch. Following the walk, there will be free healthy refreshments and an opportunity to meet and greet players from the Dundalk squad. The walk is open to all ages and abilities.
As part of the campaign—sponsored by Healthy Ireland in partnership with the HSE and Louth County Council—Dundalk FC will create a new smoke-free zone in Oriel Park. This zone will be located behind the town-end goals, where many children gather during home games. The club believes this is the most impactful area to prioritise in creating a healthier, more family-friendly environment.
Currently on match days, junior local soccer teams are playing mini half-time games in front of the home crowd as part of this Healthy Ireland initiative.
'The kids are immensely enjoying the experience of getting a game in Oriel in front of a large crowd and we love the engagement we are getting back from the kids. It brings a real excitement to the matchday experience. We hope that everyone will support the new initiative,' Orla Crilly of The 1903 Dundalk FC Supporters Group said.
Nita Whelan, Head of Operations at Dundalk FC, said the club was proud to support the Not Around Us campaign and take practical steps to protect the health of their younger fans.
"Oriel Park is a family venue, and we want to ensure it's a safe and welcoming space for all. This new initiative is a small but important change in how we promote healthy behaviours within our community.'
'We would like to thank Orla of The 1903 for their continued support in helping make these initiatives possible.
