Club Notes | Dungarvan Host Meet The Heroes Day

Dungarvan RFC were delighted to host a Meet the Heroes Day in collaboration with Autism Friendly Dungarvan earlier this month.

The purpose of the day was simple, for children with autism and additional needs, unfamiliar people, uniforms, vehicles and situations can sometimes be daunting. By giving children the opportunity to meet emergency services, healthcare professionals, sporting and community heroes in a relaxed and welcoming environment, it was hoped that it would take away that feeling of the unknown and make the unfamiliar more familiar.

It was an opportunity for families to relax and to allow children engage at their own pace.

Speaking about the event, Dungarvan RFC Child Welfare Officer, Karen Walsh, said:

“The success of the day came through real community collaboration, with emergency services, healthcare professionals, sporting representatives, community organisations, volunteers and families all coming together.

“For Dungarvan RFC, this is very much part of what we want our club to represent. Rugby will always be at the heart of what we do, but we also want our gates to be open to the wider community.

“We believe rugby can reach beyond what happens on the pitch, bringing people together, creating connections and helping people feel that they belong.”

As well as welcoming numerous first responders to the event, the East Munster club were delighted to host fellow Dungarvan native Tom Ahern.

Walsh praised the Munster second-row for taking the time out of his day to attend and spoke about what his presence meant to the club.

“It was also particularly special to welcome former Dungarvan RFC player Tom Ahern back through those gates. Tom generously gave his time, interacting with the children and families and getting involved in the activities throughout the afternoon.

“There was something very fitting about seeing someone who once came through our club as a young rugby player return to support his community and the next generation.”

Check out some of the best photos from the day below.

A view of the Meet The Heroes event hosted by Dungarvan RFC

A view of the Meet The Heroes event hosted by Dungarvan RFC