Charity match at Turner's Cross raises over €12k for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland
Players from Cork and Waterford Football for All programmes at Turner's Cross.
Turner's Cross was the setting for a memorable day of football, community spirit and generosity as a special charity match in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland raised an incredible €12,300 for the worthy cause.
The event brought together players, volunteers, supporters and families from across Cork for a day that demonstrated the power of sport to unite communities while making a real difference. The match itself saw a lively contest between two proud clubs from opposite sides of the city, with Blackpool Celtic representing the northside and Pearse Celtic flying the flag for the southside.
In an entertaining encounter that kept supporters on the edge of their seats, Blackpool Celtic emerged victorious 4-3. While the result gave northside supporters plenty to celebrate, the scoreline was secondary to the true purpose of the day.
Every ticket sold, donation made and volunteer hour contributed helped support the vital work of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and the families who rely on its services.
A key figure behind the event was Dave O'Brien, one of the principal organisers and manager of Blackpool Celtic. His dedication, alongside the efforts of a committed organising committee of Nathalie O’Shea, Ricky Murphy, Rob Kelleher, and Lorraine Mealy ensured the day ran smoothly from start to finish. Months of planning culminated in an occasion that exceeded expectations both on and off the pitch.
The success of the fundraiser would not have been possible without the remarkable support of volunteers, including a fantastic team of employees from Apple. Giving up their own time, Apple staff assisted with everything from event organisation and fundraising activities to welcoming supporters and ensuring the day ran seamlessly. Their enthusiasm and commitment played a major role in helping the event reach its outstanding fundraising total in which O’Brien was thrilled with.
“Raising €12,000 is a remarkable achievement and reflects not only the generosity of those who attended but also the willingness of local businesses, sponsors and volunteers to rally behind an important cause,” said O’Brien.
While the match provided plenty of excitement, many in attendance agreed that the most memorable moments came during the half-time interval.
“The spotlight belonged to the young stars of the Football for All programme, who took to the famous Turner's Cross pitch with smiles as wide as the stadium itself. Children from Cork and Waterford proudly represented their clubs and communities, demonstrating exactly what grassroots football is all about.
The Football for All programme has become a shining example of inclusion within Irish football, providing opportunities for children of all abilities to enjoy the game in a welcoming and supportive environment. For those youngsters, playing on the same pitch that has hosted countless League of Ireland and international fixtures was a dream come true.
The cheers from the stands during their match rivalled those for the senior game, with every pass, tackle and goal celebrated enthusiastically by family members, teammates and supporters. It was a powerful reminder that football is about far more than winning trophies, it's about creating opportunities, building confidence and bringing people together.
Many spectators left believing that, despite Blackpool Celtic's thrilling 4-3 victory, the real winners of the day were those young Football for All players. Their infectious enthusiasm, determination and pure enjoyment captured the hearts of everyone present and perfectly reflected the inclusive spirit of the event.
“Days like this showcase the very best of Cork football. Rivalries were put to one side in support of a cause that affects so many families, while clubs, volunteers and local businesses worked hand in hand to make a genuine difference. It was a celebration not only of football but of compassion, generosity and community.”
The organisers have every reason to be proud of what was achieved. From the commitment of Dave O'Brien and his fellow organisers, to the invaluable contribution of the Apple volunteers, the support of both clubs, and the generosity of everyone who attended, the event demonstrated what can be accomplished when a community comes together with a shared purpose.
As the final whistle blew and the fundraising total of €12,000 was confirmed, there was a real sense of achievement around Turner's Cross. The money raised will have a lasting impact for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, but perhaps just as importantly, the day created lasting memories for everyone involved, especially the children.
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