Blackrock is the venue as Ireland take on Scotland in amputee international match

The Irish Amputee International team will play their first international match of 2025 against Scotland Amputee FA on Saturday, 18th January.

The game will take place at Rock Celtic's home ground, Sandy Lane, Blackrock, Co. Louth. Kick-off is at 2.00pm and admission is free.

This day is sponsored by van Dijk Architects and will be followed by the team's annual awards night. The game is organised by Garry Hoey, a local who played for Rock Celtic when he was younger and had two legs.

But after a workplace accident in 2012, Garry lost his right lower leg below the knee. He has since become an integral part of the Irish Amputee and Committee.

When speaking with the Dundalk Democrat, Hoey shared his thoughts ahead of the game. He said: "We have our last training session this Saturday before the upcoming game against Scotland.

“This is really the start of our two-year plan to get ready for the World Cup in 2028. I'm excited to be able to bring amputee football to the club that started my love for football.

“We don't get to play many international matches in Ireland, so when it's on your own doorstep, it is great. Family and friends will be able to see the game live.

“Anyone that knows me knows how much I put into amputee football, so being able to bring a game to home is fantastic.”

(Garry in action for his club Bohemian FC. Photo by Matt Browne/Sportsfile)

When reflecting on his personal journey, Hoey said, "In 2009 I had a workplace accident where something fell onto my right foot and the results ended in me having the leg amputated just below the knee.

“In 2012 I found out about amputee football, making my debut against England, and I've never looked back. The game has taken me to three World Cups, three European Cups, and many other competitions.

“I have travelled as far as Mexico to play. I have been capped 60 times for Ireland. I am the current captain of the Bohemian FC amputee side."

Hoey hopes for a large local support to get behind the team. He said: "I would like to see a big crowd and hopefully they all leave with something to talk about for weeks and months ahead.

“It's such a fantastic sport to watch, never mind play. Seeing players running only using crutches, how players balance and strike the ball, people will be surprised."