Ireland’s national futsal team for players with Down syndrome is getting ready to host distinguished visitors from across the pond.
The Ireland and USA Down Syndrome Futsal Tour 2024, the first tour of its kind, kicks off in Co. Meath on May 20th.
The tour will help both teams prepare for the 2025 SUDS Futsal Championship for players with Down syndrome.
Ireland’s Down Syndrome Futsal team made its bow at the European Championships in Italy last September. The squad had a jam-packed week, playing 5 games in 4 days, performing creditably against strong and experienced opponents from Turkey, Italy and Portugal.
Futsal is a form of five-aside indoor football played with a smaller, heavier ball than football and is an ideal sport for Ireland, as it is played from October to March.
This will be the first international participation for the USA squad, an affiliate of US Soccer, since they came together in early 2023.
The USA’s mixed-gender squad consists of eight players, and eight Irish squad players, supplemented by two upcoming development players will train at Gormanston Park for the week of 20th -24th May.
Mark Trevor, Vice President of Down Syndrome Sports of America commented: “We are absolutely honoured and thrilled to be invited by Ireland’s Down Syndrome Futsal team to train and compete with them in the Emerald Isle. Our players and coaches are looking forward to what will be a tremendous experience, I’m sure, both on and off the pitch!”
Captain of the Irish team, Josh Hennessy, is looking forward to training with the USA and making new friends with both players and coaches.
Futsal for players in Ireland is developing at a steady pace and those involved hope to foster a Futsal community both locally and internationally.
“A week like this offers a lifetime of experiences to our players. Making new friends, improve their football skills and work towards barrier free sport for players with disabilities.” said DSI Louth Meath branch Sport coordinator Tessa van Heerden.
