This month's training camp was supplemented by another training game, against Limerick's Pike Rovers on Saturday 26th April. Although the Limerick side won 4-3, James Boyle scored twice for the amputees with Kevan O'Rourke adding a third. The squad again showed the ability to play with control and composure for a extended period of time. Fitness testing preceded the match on Friday evening while the squad partook in a coaching session and a strength and conditioning session on Sunday. These training weekends are both physically and mentally demanding on the players and they have shown incredible commitment and desire in their performances across each camp.

Today the IAFA were formally and officially invited to the Amputee World Cup in Mexico. The tournament which will take place from 30th November to 8th December in Culican, Mexico will see all 24 member countries of the World Amputee Football Federation compete for the crown of Amputee Football World Champions. Ireland could face hosts Mexico, reigning champions Uzbekistan, European heavyweights Great Britain, or African Cup of Nations holders Liberia. Excitement builds in the IAFA camp while the hard work and grind of training continues.   

Members of the IAFA, in association with Trailwalkers Ireland, took part in a sponsored walk from Glendalough to Glenmalure as they raised funds to help ensure that the International squad would be able to travel to the Amputee World Cup in Mexico later this year. The team raised an incredible €6578 with your generosity and support and were joined on the day by over 200 people to undertake the challenge. The team members walked an astonishing 15k on just one leg and crutches, without the use of their prosthesis'. The team also received a very kind and generous donation from Megazyme on the day. The existence of the IAFA would not be possible without the charity of family, friends and supporters. The IAFA would like to sincerely thank everyone who sponsored, donated or took part in the walk. The IAFA would like to extend a huge thank you to Trailwalkers Ireland for making the event possible and to team member Donal Bligh for his tireless efforts in organising the walk.

Following a successful training camp the IAFA squad played a training match against the Project Futsal team in Abbotstown on Monday, 7th April. The Project Futsal team which included Peamount United star and Ireland International, Stephanie Roche, ran out 5-2 winners but the IAFA squad were pleased with their level of performance. Craig Dowling and Garry Hoey got themselves on the score sheet and the fitness and stamina of the amputee footballers, results of the individual training that each player has been putting in, was impressive.