'A fantastic role model': Irish Guide Dogs names Cork's Caoimhín as ambassador

Ireland and Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher has been appointed as an official ambassador for Irish Guide Dogs.

The Cork star, who played most of his underage football with Ringmahon Rangers, will support Irish Guide Dogs in raising awareness of its life-changing services for people who are vision-impaired and families of children with autism.

As an ambassador, Kelleher will help highlight the vital work of the charity and encourage greater public support for its services, which are provided free of charge to those who need them.

Kelleher said: “I was delighted when Irish Guide Dogs asked me to become an ambassador. Having the opportunity to do a blindfold walk with one of their highly-trained guide dogs gave me a real insight into the challenges that people who are blind or vision-impaired face every day."

Incredible experience

“It was an incredible experience and showed me the trust, skill, and partnership that exists between a guide dog and its owner.

“I also had the chance to learn about the work of the charity’s assistance dogs and the life-changing impact they have on children with autism and their families. Hearing those stories really brought home the difference these dogs make, giving children greater confidence and independence, while providing support to the whole family.

“I’m proud to support Irish Guide Dogs, and I hope I can help raise awareness of the incredible work they do, encouraging more people to get involved by volunteering, fundraising, or supporting the charity so that even more lives can be changed.”

He joins a group of Irish Guide Dogs ambassadors, including football legend Roy Keane, Munster and Ireland rugby international Jack Crowley, Young Offenders actor and playwright Shane Casey, and broadcaster and podcaster Doireann Garrihy.

Fantastic role model

Tim O’Mahony, CEO of Irish Guide Dogs, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Caoimhín as an ambassador for Irish Guide Dogs.

“He is not only an exceptional athlete, but also a fantastic role model for young people across Ireland.

“As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, Caoimhín’s appointment is particularly significant.

“For five decades, Irish Guide Dogs has been changing lives through the partnerships we create, and we look forward to working with him to help even more people achieve greater independence and inclusion in the years ahead.”