Tuesday September 26th 2023
Press Release
Vision Sports Ireland, the National Governing Body for sport for people who are blind or vision impaired in Ireland, are proud to announce that Old Wesley RFC’s Vision Impaired rugby team will represent Ireland at the upcoming Vision Impaired Rugby World Cup in October at the iconic Stade Mayol in Tulon, France.
The inaugural tournament, organised by The Change Foundation UK, will make history as the first international rugby tournament for vision impaired players from around the world. Alex Bassan, Director of Business Development at The Change Foundation UK commented, “We are honoured to be hosting the first-ever VI Rugby International Tournament in partnership with RC Toulon. We look forward to welcoming all the players and staff from the Old Wesley RFC vision-impaired team who will be representing Ireland during the tournament, and want to express our thanks to all involved who have enabled the Old Wesley RFC VI team to continue to grow and compete in their first international competition, giving those with sight loss the chance to play our beloved game.”
Vision Sports Ireland is proud to welcome on board associate sponsor Aura Leisure, with additional support from PwC. Their generous contributions will enable the team to compete at the highest level and undoubtedly make Ireland proud.
Vision Sports Ireland CEO Aaron Mullaniff commented, “At Vision Sport Ireland we are immensely proud to have the Old Wesley RFC Vision Impaired Rugby Team as the Irish ambassadors at the first ever Vision Impaired Rugby World Cup in France. Their journey reflects the spirit of inclusion, determination and possibility that defines Vision Sports Ireland’s mission. I wish to extend our gratitude to Aura Leisure and PwC for their valuable support for the team on this journey.”
Ronan Bools, Old Wesley RFC President added “Old Wesley RFC are honoured and proud to have our VI squad represent Ireland at the Vision Impaired Rugby World Cup. This opportunity is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our players and coaches since the VI Rugby team began in 2021, and it showcases the diversity and determination that our club embodies. We look forward to making history in France.”
The Vision Impaired Rugby World Cup promises to be a momentous event that will inspire and unite. Vision Sports Ireland invites everyone to join in supporting Old Wesley RFC’s Vision Impaired Rugby Team as they carry the hopes and aspirations of Ireland to the world stage from 11th-13th October.
ENDS
For more information contact Sara Mc Fadden, Partnerships and Operations Coordinator, Vision Sports Ireland on sara.visionsports@ncbi.ie or 086 167 7896.