New boss Kenny and former international striker Quinn, now Interim Deputy CEO with the FAI, will take questions from DSI members all across Ireland in this unique webcast event on the FAI’s Facebook channel.
The Football Association of Ireland are keen to help DSI at a time when fundraising income has been hit so hard for so many deserving organisations by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is our way of supporting Down Syndrome Ireland in a very fun environment,” said interim FAI CEO Gary Owens. “Stephen and Niall jumped at the opportunity to be involved and I look forward to seeing them quizzed about the secrets of their football careers.
“We are delighted that this online event will be Stephen’s first public engagement with Ireland fans and I would encourage our supporters to donate in any way they can to Down Syndrome Ireland to celebrate this partnership.
“I know from my own days working with DSI just how much great work the organisation does and the fantastic support and services that they offer to people in Ireland with Down Syndrome and their families.
“The Football Association of Ireland is delighted to be involved with this online show and hopefully we can help to raise awareness and much needed funds for DSI.”
Superfan Sarah Carroll, from Portobello in Dublin, is one of the DSI members who will be putting questions to Stephen Kenny and Niall Quinn on Friday. Sarah said: “I am thrilled with the opportunity to ask questions as I am a crazy Ireland soccer fan. Seamus Coleman is my favourite player.”
Liam Ahern, President of Down Syndrome Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled to team up with the Football Association of Ireland to give our members with Down syndrome a once in a lifetime opportunity to ask some of their sporting heroes the questions they’ve always wanted to ask. These are difficult and distressing times for everyone and this initiative is also a wonderful way to help spread some fun and excitement for our members and their families across the country.”
To watch the FAI/Down Syndrome Ireland event from 1.30pm on Friday, visit Facebook.com/faireland
Down Syndrome Ireland’s vital fundraising income has been severely impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis with all annual campaigns and activities postponed, If you are in a position to do so, please DONATE at www.downsyndrome.ie