Leeds AFC prove sport is about far more than a game of ball

There were great night of celebration in the Cork City Hall as the Leeds AFC mixed ability team were hosted by the Lord Mayor Fergal Dennehy. 

They were joined by members of the Munster Special Olympics, Leeds AFC, Cope Ireland, parents and friends of all the players involved.

This was an event where the northside club got to celebrate more than just sport. They had an opportunity to celebrate the importance of the link created this time last year between Leeds AFC and the Cope Horizon soccer team.

The partnership and introduction of these players into the Leeds AFC club show what it truly means for individuals, families and the wider community.

It also gave Leeds an opportunity to welcome some of our newest members to the club by presenting them with their team jerseys and tracksuit tops. It was great honour that this presentation was made to all involved by the Lord Mayor Fergal Dennehy.

Football clubs are often judged by trophies, league positions, and rivalries. But the real value of a club is found not only in what happens on match day, but in the lives it touches every day. Leeds AFC, through its work with Dominic, Sinead, Junor and Mark as well as all the players and their parents prove as much.

This team helps to create a space where people of all abilities can train, play, and grow together. 

Here, labels don’t define anyone. Ability is not measured by limitations, but by effort, teamwork, and heart. 

On this pitch, everyone matters, everyone contributes, everyone belongs.

For these players, this club is not just a place to kick a ball. It is a place to build confidence, friendships, and independence. It is a place where voices are heard, where achievements are celebrated, and where challenges are met with support rather than judgment.

The dedicated team of volunteers and coaches behind this team helps individuals discover not only their skills as players, but their strength as people.

POWERFUL

This program also sends a powerful message to the wider community. It reminds us that inclusion is not an idea, it is an action. When players train and compete side by side, barriers are broken down. 

Understanding grows, respect grows and a stronger, kinder community grows with it.

This team prove that football can change lives. It can open doors. It can lift spirits. It can give people a sense of purpose and pride. And perhaps most importantly, it can show every person involved that they are valued exactly as they are.

Fittingly it was in the week where club founder Mary Buckley passed away. Her aim was all players regardless of level of ability could come together and play. They celebrated not just a  club, but something bigger. A team that believes in equality, opportunity, and the power of sport to bring people together.

The Leeds AFC mixed ability team are always on the look out for new committed players and new members are always welcome to Leeds Park on Saturday mornings.