Twenty-five Wicklow athletes, alongside their families, coaches, volunteers, and community representatives, came together on Wednesday, 7th May at Avondale Beyond the Trees to celebrate and wish well the Wicklow athletes who will compete in the 2026 Special Olympics Ireland Games this June.
The special evening recognised and celebrated Wicklow’s 25 athletes, coaches, and chaperones representing three Special Olympics clubs across the county. The event highlighted the dedication, perseverance, and sporting spirit of the athletes as they prepare to represent Wicklow on the national stage.
Guests heard from a number of speakers during the evening, including Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Chairperson of Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership Carol Coad, Louise Grant, Head of Delegation Team Eastern, and T.D. Brian Brennan, all of whom praised the athletes for their commitment and achievements.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan said, “Tonight is about recognising the incredible dedication and determination shown by each athlete, coach, and volunteer. Wicklow is immensely proud of all those representing the county at the Special Olympics Ireland Games. We wish every member of Team Wicklow the very best of luck this June.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, who sent her best wishes to Team Wicklow ahead of the Games, said “The Special Olympics Ireland Games are a wonderful celebration of inclusion, community, and sporting achievement. It is fantastic to see so many athletes from Wicklow taking part, supported by their families, coaches, and volunteers. We are extremely proud of everything they have accomplished and the positive example they set for communities throughout the county.”
Chairperson of Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership Carol Coad commented, “This evening was an opportunity to celebrate not only sporting achievement, but also the friendships, commitment, and sense of community that Special Olympics fosters. The athletes representing Wicklow have worked incredibly hard to reach this stage, and we are delighted to support and acknowledge their dedication as they prepare for the Ireland Games.”
Louise Grant, Head of Delegation Team Eastern, spoke about the importance of community support and the impact events like this have on athletes and their families noting, “It was fantastic to see the level of support from the Wicklow community here tonight. Events like this mean so much to athletes, families, coaches, and volunteers as they prepare for the Ireland Games. The encouragement and recognition shown this evening really highlights the strong community spirit behind Team Wicklow.”
The Special Olympics Ireland Games will take place this June, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete in a wide range of sports and celebrate inclusion through sport.
Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership wished all Wicklow athletes, coaches, and volunteers the very best as they prepare to represent the county at the Games.