Joanne brings people together to support frontline workers

INTER- COUNTY players from all over the country are coming together to support the heroic efforts of frontline workers during the COVID-19 crisis, thanks to a Millstreet woman who knows how to be pro-active.

Players from all 32 counties are taking part in the first of its kind All-Ireland FIFA20 Charity Online Tournament which will take place across this May Bank Holiday weekend. All money raised will go frontline workers in the HSE and NHS across the island.

It’s the brainchild of disability rights activist and Irish Times columnist Joanne O’Riordan, who has teamed up with the Gaelic Player Association (GPA) and Insomnia Dublin Gaming Festival to organise the online tournament which will be streamed live from Friday, 1st May. Details can be found at www.insomniagamingdublin.ie/all-ireland.

“I came up with the initial idea because my grandmother and uncle are both in care settings. I know they are receiving excellent care, but I also know they are missing not seeing us,”said Joanne. “The tournament is a chance for us all to remember collectively those in care settings and the people who are looking after them in this trying time.

The competition pits inter-county players including, Wexford’s Rory O’Connor, Kilkenny’s Paddy Deegan and Monaghan’s Conor McCarty, against each other, allowing them to release some of their competitive energy at a time when games are on hold.

“We want to create an event for people of all ages. We want them to watch the games, enjoy the sport of it and be part of the experience. We want to play our part in promoting and engaging with the terrific community spirit that has been evident during these challenging times,” added Joanne.

The tournament is a 1v1 knockout format, with players facing off to be crowned the All-Ireland FIFA20 Champion.