Understand
Visually impaired Ireland rugby team prepares for international tournament in Japan
Overview
The All Ireland Visually Impaired Rugby Team, the only mixed-gender visually impaired rugby team in the world, is preparing to represent Ireland at an international tournament in Japan. Facilitated by the Irish Rugby Football Union, the touch rugby squad brings together players from all four provinces who share experiences of vision impairment, providing them with community, fitness, and a sense of belonging.
Key points
- The All Ireland Visually Impaired Rugby Team is the only mixed-gender visually impaired team globally and is set to compete in an international tournament in Japan.
- Player Hilary Devlin highlights how the team has given her a sense of belonging and community after feeling excluded from sports in her youth.
- Captain Sean McDowell credits the team with aiding his recovery after suffering a haemorrhagic stroke during the pandemic that left him with severe sight loss.
- Sara McFadden emphasises the vital importance of inclusion in sport, noting that only one in ten blind or visually impaired children meet physical activity guidelines.
- Coach David McKay uses adaptations such as altered cone colours and a ball with a bell, noting that strong communication is essential for the team.