Waterford Mayor pays tribute to the Special Olympic athletes making history
Mayor of waterford City & County Cllr Jason Murphy, presented a scroll to Waterford Special Olympics Club, in recognition of their outstanding achievements in the Special Olympics world Winter Games held in Turin, Italy, from left are, Niall Corcoran, Bronze Medal Floorball, James Upton, Bronze Medal Floorball, Mayor Cllr Jason Murphy, Clive Healy, Silver and Bronze Medal Skiing, Damien Kirwan, Bronze Medal Floorball and George Fitzgerald, Assistant Coach, also included is Cllr Seamus Ryan. Photo: Joe Evans
The Waterford Special Olympics Club “continues to be a shining example of inclusivity, teamwork and resilience.”
That is according to Mayor Jason Murphy at a mayoral reception for the club.
The club boasts 180 athletes across 12 sports supported by a team of volunteers.
“Since its foundation in 1989, this club has made a lasting and positive impact on countless lives, offering opportunities for athletes to shine, grow and to represent their city, county and country with pride,” said Mayor Murphy.
The mayor remarked on the club's participation in the Special Olympic World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
He said it was a “privilege” to watch them compete.
In his reception speech, the mayor paid tribute to some of the club's medal winners and coaches who have made history and their county proud.
To James Upton, Niall Corcoran and Damien Kirwan, who returned with a bronze medal in Floorball, Mayor Murphy said: “Gentleman, you have done yourselves, your club and your community proud.“
To Clive Healy, who became the first-ever athlete from Munster to represent Ireland in skiing and returned with silver and bronze medals, he said: “Clive, you have paved the way for future generations, and we are so proud of you.”
To George Fitzgerald, who became the first Special Olympics Ireland athlete to represent Team Ireland as an assistant coach in world games, Mayor Murphy said: “George, your commitment both as an athlete and as a mentor to others truly embodies the spirit of Special Olympics.”
The mayor also welcomed Chairperson Dennis Hegarty, Regional Director for Special Olympics Munster, Eoin O’Beara and Chairperson of Special Olympics Munster Charlotte Donnelly.
He recognised the contributions made by the families, committee members, volunteers and supporters.
“None of these successes would be possible without your unwavering encouragement, your hours of dedication and your belief in the potential of every athlete.
“On behalf of Waterford City and County Council, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of our athletes and our club.
"You made history, and you have made memories, and you have made us all immensely proud,” said Mayor Murphy.
