The Republic of Ireland Men’s Cerebral Palsy (CP) team will embark on their IFCPF European Championships campaign this week as they travel to Loughborough, UK, for the prestigious tournament.

The Republic of Ireland Men’s Cerebral Palsy (CP) team will embark on their IFCPF European Championships campaign this week as they travel to Loughborough, UK, for the prestigious tournament.

Led by Manager Mick Doyle and Head Coach Paul Smyth, Ireland will face a tough test in their group stage matches against Scotland, Germany, and the Netherlands. The campaign kicks off with a crucial opening fixture against Scotland this Saturday, August 16th.

The squad, selected from across the country, has undergone a rigorous preparation schedule over the last few months. A series of competitive warm-up matches against teams including Raheny United, Carrick Rovers, Raharney FC, and Monaghan Town FC has ensured the players are tactically and physically prepared for the demands of tournament football.

While a number of young players feature in the squad, the team will be able to draw upon a wealth of experience from its senior leaders. The side will be captained by the remarkable Joe Markey, who made his debut in 2002 and has earned over 135 caps for his country. He is supported by a core group of seasoned internationals, including Ryan Nolan (80 caps), Carl McKee (70 caps), and Dillon Sheridan (55 caps), who will provide a bedrock of experience for this ambitious group.

The success of the CP Football Academy is highlighted by the fact that the vast majority of the squad has progressed through this pathway, a testament to the hard work being done to develop players at grassroots level.

Manager Mick Doyle said: “We’re incredibly excited to get going. We have a brilliant mix of experience and youthful ambition in this squad, and we are confident in the group of players we have selected to represent the country.

“This is a fantastic recognition of the hard work being done on the ground by the CP Football Academy, and it is a huge honour for these players to represent Ireland at a European Championships. The preparations have gone extremely well, and it’s been great to have the experience of a Head Coach like Paul Smyth, expertly supported by Alvin Rouse, to guide the team. We simply can’t wait to travel now and get started against Scotland on Saturday.”

The FAI wishes all players and staff the very best of luck for the tournament.

Republic of Ireland - Men's CP Squad

Goalkeepers: Sean Daly (Meath), Mark McGrath (Louth)
Defenders: Joe Markey (Captain, Monaghan), Conor Halpin (Dublin), Carl McKee (Dublin), Darren Martin (Dublin), Will Carr (Wexford)
Midfielders: Ryan Nolan (Wicklow), James Bateman (Tipperary), Warren Morrissey (Wexford), Jake Hannon (Dublin), Matthew Orton (Meath)
Forwards: Dillon Sheridan (Dublin), Jack O'Sullivan (Cork)

Fixtures - IFCPF European Championships Schedule

16/08 - Scotland v Republic of Ireland, 1.30pm
17/08 - Netherlands v Republic of Ireland, 4pm
19/08 - Republic of Ireland v Germany, 11am
Semi-Final Stage: Scheduled for 21/08
Final Stage: Scheduled for 23/08