Photos: L Mc Qullian/Drogheda Utd
Supporters of Drogheda United will take to the pitch once again next month as the 45 Ultras and the Drogheda United Social Supporters Group come together for their annual charity football match.
The event takes place at Sullivan & Lambe Park on Saturday, August 1, with all proceeds supporting Abacus School for Autism and SOSAD Ireland.
Kick off is at 2pm, with proceeds from the match going to Abacus School for Autism and SOSAD Ireland.
This year, the 45 Ultras have chosen Abacus School for Autism as their nominated charity. The decision is a deeply personal one for many members of the group.
One organiser explained that his youngest son, Brody, has autism, while several other members of the Ultras and supporters’ group also have siblings or relatives with autism.
The fundraising will help provide Abacus School with toys, sensory equipment and learning resources to support its students.
SOSAD has once again been selected by the Drogheda United Social Supporters Group as its chosen charity, helping to raise awareness of mental health and support the organisation’s work in providing counselling and crisis services.
The organisers are encouraging anyone who may be struggling to seek support, highlighting the importance of reaching out for help. SOSAD’s free helpline can be contacted on 1800 901 909.
The charity match began last year after the Ultras approached the supporters’ group with the idea of each team selecting a charity and splitting all funds raised equally between them.
The inaugural event proved to be a huge success, raising €20,000, which was shared between SOSAD and Drogheda Women’s & Children’s Refuge.
Organisers are hoping to match last year’s fundraising total of €20,000 and have thanked everyone who has donated so far. They say every contribution, no matter the size, will make a real difference to both charities.
This year’s match will also feature some familiar faces from Drogheda United’s past.
The Ultras have selected former club captain Paul Crowley and former striker Lee Duffy to line out, while the Supporters’ Group will be represented by FAI Cup winner Matthew O’Brien and former Drogheda United player Ryan McEvoy.
After the final whistle, supporters are invited to continue the fundraising at Mother Hughes Pub from 6pm, where there will be live music from Kevin Hoey, a raffle with a range of prizes and a DJ.
Match tickets cost €5, with every ticket purchased automatically entered into the raffle. Donations can also be made through the Drogheda United website.
Ticket Link:https://www.droghedaunited.ie/ticketing/?ftredirect=1
