Volunteers needed for Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games

With just three months to go until the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games return to Dublin, organisers are urging people across the capital to step forward and be part of what is set to be the country’s largest inclusive sporting event.

The Games will take place from June 18 to 21 and will bring together more than 1,200 athletes from across Ireland to compete in a celebration of sport, community and inclusion.

Staged across multiple venues in the Dublin region, the centrepiece of the event will be the Sport Ireland Campus, while the opening ceremony will be held at Tallaght Stadium.

Over four days, athletes will compete in 12 sports, including athletics, aquatics, basketball and football.

The programme will also feature Motor Activity Training Programmes, designed for athletes with higher support needs, as well as a range of health screenings.

Organisers say volunteers will play a crucial role in ensuring the Games run smoothly, with more than 1,000 people already signed up.

However, there is still a strong demand for additional support across a wide variety of roles.

Those who volunteer can choose to give their time across one or more of the four days, helping with everything from event operations and athlete support to logistics and venue coordination.

The Summer Games are expected to draw families, supporters and communities together from across the country, creating what organisers describe as a life affirming experience for everyone involved.

They are encouraging anyone interested in getting involved to register now and find out more at www.irelandgames.ie, as preparations continue to gather pace ahead of June.