Ulster GAA will be proudly represented on the international stage this week as four members of the Ulster Wheelchair Hurling team don the green jersey for Ireland at the prestigious Para Floorball Tournament in The Netherlands.
Down’s Ciarán Bradley will have the honour of captaining the 12-player Irish squad, leading a strong Ulster contingent that also includes Paul Hannan from Armagh, Jason Muldoon from Derry, and Sam McColgan from Donegal.
Their selection highlights the exceptional standard of para-sport talent emerging from the province through Ulster GAA’s inclusive games programmes.
The Ulster influence continues on the coaching side, with Shane McCann and Paul Callaghan, both Ulster GAA Regional Development Officers, playing key roles in the team’s management.
The players were nominated by their provinces following excellent performances in this season’s All-Ireland Wheelchair Hurling League and Championships tournaments, before several para floorball training sessions were held in Dublin.
The tournament takes place from October 23rd to 25th at Sports Hall De Veur in Zoetermeer, and will feature elite teams from seven nations in what promises to be a wonderful showcase of elite para-sport talent.
Team captain Bradley, from the Clann na Banna club, shared his thoughts ahead of the competition: “Leading this team is a tremendous honour. We’ve trained hard, built strong bonds, and are ready to represent Ireland with pride. Every player brings something special, and I’m proud to stand beside them as captain.”
GAA President, Jarlath Burns said: “This upcoming trip marks a proud moment for the Association and for Irish sport. Our Wheelchair Hurling Camogie players exemplify the spirit of determination, teamwork, and pride in representing Ireland. We wish them every success as they take to the international stage once more.”
The Ireland Team is:
- Sean Bennett [Kilkenny]
- Ciarán Bradley [Down} (C)
- Shane Curran [Galway]
- Darren Dineen [Limerick]
- Paul Hannan [Armagh]
- Cian Horgan [Kerry]
- James McCarthy [Limerick]
- Sam McColgan [Donegal]
- Stephen Melvin [Sligo]
- Jason Muldoon [Derry]
- Maurice Noonan [Limerick] (VC)
- Ellie Sheehy [Limerick]
For further information on the Ulster GAA Wheelchair Hurling Programme, please contact: shane.mccann.ulster@gaa.ie or paul.callaghan.ulster@gaa.ie.
By Michael Devlin Tue 21st Oct
