The Irish amputee soccer squad is to train in Moate on the weekend of September 13-14 as part of the ‘Friends of Conor D’ fun day.
The founder of the Irish Amputee Association, Simon Baker, contacted the Friends of Conor D committee to say that they have arranged their squad development weekend to be based in Moate Community School as part of their preparation for the upcoming World Cup.
The family fun day is being held to raise funds for five-year-old Conor Dufficy from Moate, who had his leg amputated following a tragic accident.
As part of the Friends of Conor D festivities, a local team from Moate consisting of coaches from Moate All Whites minor board, Moate Celtic, and members of Westmeath Ladies GAA team will play the Republic of Ireland amputee football team in Hogan Park, Moate.
Mr Baker said he and the squad are particularly looking forward to meeting Conor.
“This will allow us to participate in your fun day with a game between ourselves and members of your local community. The whole squad is very much looking forward to meeting Conor, his family, and the people of Moate and showing our support to your day.”
Team manager Christy McElligot added: “When one of the members of our team, Donal Bligh, got involved with the Friends of Conor D launch night held recently, and the enthusiasm with which Donal spoke about the project, it really was a no-brainer for the squad to get involved for the weekend. And having had a look around the town of Moate last week along with the excellent training facilities Mr Lowry has offered us for the weekend training camp, it is a decision we are delighted we made.”
The weekend activities begin on Friday morning with Tuar Ard proprietor, Shirley Rooney, hosting a coffee morning from 10am-12.30pm. That evening a Zumba party will take place in the Carmelite Pastoral Centre from 7-9pm organised by Caroline Cunniffe. Friends of Conor D will also hold a Spectacular Fun Day on Sunday September 14, in Don’s Garden in Lower Main Street, Moate.
“We will be basing ourselves in Moate for the weekend and if anyone wants to pop up to our training sessions on Saturday, they are more than welcome.”
For further information see ‘Friends of Conor D’ on www.idonate.ie
