Sunderland’s Irish links continue to thrive

I HAVE just returned from Limerick after seeing a Munster XI v Sunderland benefit football match for the Shane Geogegan Trust Benefit Fund which was set up to materially improve the lives of the disadvantaged.

I thought I would say what a worthwhile and enjoyable trip it was.

Thanks to Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn, Sunderland AFC’s Foundation — the charity wing of the club — are heavily involved in this impressive venture.

We were treated to a typical dose of Irish hospitality from the Limerick people who were keen to express their appreciation that we made the trip over the Irish Sea for the occasion with their warmth and humour.

Sunderland AFC’s Irish midfielder Andy Reid sums up the Sunderland/Ireland connection with these well chosen words: “Why is there such a strong bond between Sunderland and Ireland? Well, partly because of Niall Quinn.

He has led everything from the top.

But just as significant is the fact that Sunderland people are quite a lot like Irish people in that they are very down to earth, straight-talking and have good morals — the kind of people I was brought up with.”

I was proud to read in last week’s Irish Post about Sunderland supporters travelling to Cork to support a local suicide prevention group by taking part in a fundraising football event which will help the Charleville-based group to train leaders in the early detection of suicide.

Two teams of SAFC fans giving up their own time to play in a football tournament in Mayfield, Cork was a commendable gesture.

In a world media that seems to thrive on negative news it was refreshing to hear some positive stories which reflected well on both communities.

Tony Ratton
Sunderland