Walterstown player to represent Ireland at the SUDS European Futsal Championship

Walterstown athlete Fergus Cosgrove travels to Italy on Sunday to represent Ireland in the 2025 SUDS European Futsal Championship. Fergus (18) is a member of the Louth Meath Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland and will be joined by fellow branch members Jamie Linden and Micheál McCloy from Louth who were also selected for the team.

“This is an amazing opportunity for Fergus - the opportunity to represent your country internationally at a sporting event is incredible but to get that opportunity when you are an athlete with Down Syndrome is indescribable," said his proud mum Eleanor Cosgrove.

"Fergus is very lucky to have a great support base locally and with Walterstown GFC. They are an amazing club, where he played gaelic football for many years. We are super proud of Fergus and he always has the support of Seán, myself, his two brothers and his wider family network,” she added.

Eleanor told how Down Syndrome Ireland’s Louth/Meath branch has produced a huge amount of sporting talent the past few years and that the branch, who’s motto is ‘Families supporting Families’ has created the platform to ensure their members if selected/qualified could avail of any sporting opportunity that came their way.

"Having foresight, bravery and vision makes this branch leaders in the development of sport for athletes with Down syndrome, in Ireland. The Louth/Meath branch engaged with national organisations and other DSI branches nationwide to extend these opportunities to other members with Down syndrome too."

Sport development in the branch came through the establishment of the Warrior Wolves Sports team in 2021. From there, events and training followed. 2023 saw the prospects of international participation and the members, branch and parents grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

Building on this foundation, three of the branch’s players, Jamie Linden, Micheál McCloy and Fergus Cosgrove, were selected to travel to the 2025 SUDS European Futsal Championship in Italy. Kevin Trainer, a youngster, was identified as development player to train with the squad in preparation for possible future opportunities.

"Having your members flourish is one of the most cherished experiences. Down Syndrome Ireland Louth Meath branch is beyond proud of their members, hoping to create more opportunities both locally and international in the nearby future, " said Eleanor.

The Euros will take place from 15th – 22nd June 2025, in Ferrara Italy. The event will offer those with Down Syndrome an unique opportunity to participate against their international peers.