Dundalk international welcomes the sponsorship of Irish Transplant football team

SONAS Bathrooms has announced their sponsorship of the Soccer Transplant Team Ireland.

The aim of this team of remarkable individuals is to emphasise the positive power of donating organs. The team is made up of players throughout Ireland, including a few from Louth who have undergone transplants of organs such as the heart, double lungs, liver, kidney, and bone marrow.

Soccer Transplant Team Ireland were delighted to finish runners-up at their inaugural tournament in Solihull Birmingham, organised by Transplant Sport UK. The team now look forward to representing Ireland in July in the British Transplant games in Coventry, while also having an eye already on the World Transplant Games in Italy in March 2024.

 “We are a mixed group brought together by the gift of organ donation" stressed Irish Captain and Dundalk native John Brennan.

"Representing the country gives huge motivation for those on organ waiting lists to stay well, joy to those who spent their childhoods in and out of hospital; denied of the opportunity to participate in childhood sport and provides a wonderful framework of support, training and brotherhood for us all.

"Whilst our stories are unique, each of us shares a common bond of facing adversity. Team Ireland showcases the success of organ donation and transplantation whilst offering inspiration to those who are newly transplanted or newly diagnosed with organ failure.

"Once they are twelve months post-transplant, we hope some might consider joining the team. We welcome all levels of fitness. Even if someone just has the capacity to spend a few minutes on the pitch, that’s their achievement.”

Soccer Transplant Team Ireland have asked people to please have the conversation with your loved ones and consider carrying a physical or digital organ donor card, by searching “Digital Organ Donor Card” on your app store. 

For more information on the team, search for Soccer Transplant Team Ireland on Facebook or visit www. soccertransplantteamireland.ie.