News

By Joe Barrett of Laois Nationalist (Original article sourced here)

We thought that it would be a very positive news story compared to all the negative news that was circulating about racism’ – Aengus Burke Portlaoise AFC U-18 Team Manager

Multiculturalism is alive and well and thriving in Laois.

Last Saturday in a show of solidarity across cultures, traditions and creeds, the Laois African Support group joined forces with the u-18 youth squad of Portlaoise Football Club to launch their club tops at Rossleighan Park.

Team manager Aengus Burke who is also a youth worker with YAP Ireland and Le Cheile said the idea came about forging a relationship with the African Support group from a discussion he had with Bolaji Adeyanju from the group and how his group could work with his football club.

Mr Burke said that they agreed that his group and parents of the team would try and raise €1,200 to supply tops for the 24 strong squad.

“We thought that it would be a very positive news story compared to all the negative news that was circulating about racism.

“It was great to be involved in such an initiative with the Laois African Support group. It showed how welcoming our club is to all races, colours and religions and how we can all work together to achieve a goal.

“We are looking forward to working with the Laois African Support group in future. It was great working with them. They have now said that they would like to get involved with the soccer club and offer their support as volunteers and help to manage a few underage teams, which we are always looking for.”