Vincent Keane receives Mayor’s Reception
Tennis Player and VSI member Vincent Keane receives Mayor’s Reception from Waterford City and County Council.
21st May 2026
On Wednesday May 20th international tennis player Vincent Keane was honoured at the Waterford City and County Council Civic Offices in Dungarvan by the Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District Cllr John O’Leary. In his opening address he stated;
“It is a great pleasure to be here today to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Vincent Keane. Vincent’s story is one of courage, determination, and extraordinary perseverance. Diagnosed with glaucoma at just 24 years of age, Vincent faced challenges that would have stopped many people in their tracks. Over time, his vision deteriorated significantly, yet he refused to let that define his future.
Vincent discovered Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis, a sport specially adapted to ensure that athletes of all levels of vision can compete and excel.”
Since taking up vision impaired tennis Vincent has won 3 National titles, 2 UK national titles as well as winning bronze in European Championships in Poland in 2025. He won the prestigious Currie Cup for two consecutive years — an honour awarded to the player who wins the most tournaments in the UK — and finished 2025 ranked as the Number One B2 male player in the UK.
The Cathaoirleach continued to say “ Vincent’s achievements on the court are truly outstanding, but perhaps even more importantly, his determination, positivity, and example inspire others to believe that challenges can be overcome and goals can be achieved. On behalf of everyone here today, I want to congratulate Vinny on his incredible success and wish him every continued achievement in the years ahead.
National Sports Development Manager Pádraig Healy spoke at the event and stated “I am delighted to represent Vision Sports Ireland today at this event. At Vision Sports Ireland our priority is to increase the number of people who are blind or vision impaired engaging in sport and physical activity. When you have ambassadors such a Vincent Keane, who take on the role of promoting the game and encouraging others to get involved, it helps increase the profile of disability sport and a huge support to Vision Sports Ireland. Within our new strategy we strive to “Amplify from Within”, supported by his wife Lisa and family, Vincent’s determination to overcomes barriers and encourages others to get involved is something both himself and his support team should be very proud of. Vision Sports Ireland are thrilled that Waterford City and County Council have recognised Vincent’s achievements at this Mayor’s reception and we thank all involved in todays event and who help provide a platform to promote disability sport and inclusion.”
The event was attended by members of the Comeragh District Council along with representatives from Tennis Ireland, Tramore Tennis club and many family and friends of Vincent.