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17 Nov 2025
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17 Nov 2025
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Dundalk players and coaches with the Cairdeas Cups before the LOI Cairdeas Cup Festival at the National Indoor Arena on the Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
The Dundalk futsal team finished second in their group in the League of Ireland Cairdeas Cup Festival at the National Indoor Arena, Abbotstown on Sunday, with Finn Harps running out as cup winners.
Dundalk were defending champions and went into the competition full of determination to retain the title. The competition was formed in 2024 and is designed specifically for players with Down Syndrome.
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The tournament saw twelve LOI clubs represented in a five-a-side futsal format, with each side backed by dedicated coaches and volunteers who prepare tirelessly throughout the year.
The Lilywhites were joined by Bohemian FC, Cork City, Drogheda United, Derry City, Waterford FC, Finn Harps, Bray Wanderers, Sligo Rovers, Shelbourne, St Patrick’s Athletic, and Wexford FC.
More than 120 players now compete in the bi-annual event. The word Cairdeas is Irish for friendship, goodwill and kinship, and sits at the core of the festival.
League of Ireland Director Mark Scanlon said: “This is without doubt one of the best days in the League of Ireland season in terms of community, friendship, fair play and the pure joy of playing football.
“All of the players proudly represent their League clubs and are a huge credit to their coaches, families and communities.”
The Dundalk squad: Kevin Trainer, David O'Hare, Aaron Connolly, Jamie Linden, Michael McCloy, Jonathan Evans, Conor McGuinness, Scott McQuillan, Noah Ohelai, Conor Halpenny, Declan Donaghy and Patrick Cartwright.
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