The Sligo Rovers squad has up to 40 registered players so far

Sligo Down Syndrome Futsal team makes dreams come through

by · RTE.ie

Parents of children with Down Syndrome in the north west have said their kids' dreams have become a reality with the formation of the Sligo Rovers Down Syndrome Futsal Team.

The new team is part of the Rover's Social Responsibility programme at the Showgrounds.

Coach Jamie Murphy says the club contacted Down Syndrome Sligo to get the ball rolling and received some support from the FAI.

"We’ve got about 30-40 players registered - male and female from Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo. The uptake has been fantastic," Jamie added.

He said: "The players would have different levels of experience. We keep the sessions relatively simple but accessible to everyone; a warmup, a match situation and a chat afterwards on what went well – like any mainstream team."

Coach Jamie Murphy with some of the team at the Showgrounds

The FAI have been proactive in developing national competitions for teams representing League of Ireland clubs.

Ten League of Ireland teams will compete at a Down Syndrome Futsal tournament in Abbotstown, Co Meath early next month.

Áine McKeown says her sons "dream has become a reality." She added they’re delighted with Sligo Rovers - "we’re very proud of the team and we’re delighted for him," she said.

Jamie Murphy oversees the Rover’s Social Responsibility programme. He sees the importance the opportunities for players to meet other players and for families to meet other families.

"There’s a great social element as well in terms of regular training. All players want to play competitively including our DS Futsal Team. The important part of it is these players are representing Sligo Rovers," Jamie added.

The Sligo Rovers squad getting their instructions from coach Jamie Murphy

Another parent, Fineen O’Driscoll says the team ticks several boxes for parents as it is competitive, social and active.

Chairperson of Sligo Down Syndrome Nikki Curran says the futsal team helps on several levels in respect of mental health and physical activity.

"We’re now moving into the era where everybody is talking about sport and mental health. It’s no different for our family members or our members here," Nikki added.