‘Football For All’ a massive success as Peake Villa lead the way in Tipperary

There was a huge turnout of people of all ages at Peake Villa football club in Loughtagalla last Saturday morning for a celebration of 'Football For All' day.

Groups from across Tipperary attended an open day at the all inclusive club where great work is being done as part of the football community.

The Football for All programme is made up of players from all groups and sporting bodies that cater for people with a disability who want to play football.

Last Saturday the TSDL league winning team kicked ball alongside some players who were new to, and excited about, playing the game.

One of the organisers of the event, Maria Quinlan, says it was a huge success: “It was a launch day really as we have players involved since last April. The FAI did a course with us. Gradually numbers grew bigger. We have over 30 players and decided to have a celebration to show the work we are doing.

“The Peake Villa players that won the cup arrived on with the cup and they had a game with the kids,” said Maria. Peake Villa is a progressive club and is leading the way to ensure everyone who wants to play football can.

‘Football For All’ is growing in Tipperary with Cahir Park and Ballymackey also fielding teams, but the concept is still in its infancy and has a lot of room for growth.

The Thurles club is leading the way and they are hoping to organise blitz’s with other clubs as well. Playing proved popular says Maria: “Our youngest is probably five and upwards. We welcome all who want to play but we are probably limited with numbers.

“We are dedicating this to Paul Twomey who passed away earlier this year. He was a huge support to David O'Dwyer. I got onboard alongside my daughter who is an SNA over in Scoil Chormaic.

“There is a need for this. All our kids should be able to play sport. We had huge support from Seamus Woodlock and all the committee, they have been just brilliant.

“Saturday was class. Simon Gleeson did music for the day. Lorraine Lowry from Scoil Chormaic, Councillor Jim Ryan, Jackie Cahill TD and Fr. Joe were all here too as well as many more.

“The kids loved it. We had all our coaches across the club there and the TSDL players got some yellow cards in the game!

“It has opened my eyes to how much support is needed for these young players. Peake Villa are leading the way. More government support could push this further and it would improve the quality of life even more for many in our community. ”