President Michael D Higgins praises patient fans who are virtually supporting their team

President Michael D Higgins will be tuning in online from Áras an Uachtaráin on Friday to watch the 2021 President's Cup Final between SSE Airtricity League Champions Shamrock Rovers and FAI Cup holders Dundalk (kick-off 7.45pm on WatchLOI).

The match will take place in Tallaght Stadium in what will be Rovers first appearance in the season curtain rasier. Last season the final was fixed for Oriel Park but was postponed due to adverse weather and not re-fixed.

President Higgins put his name to the competition in 2014 reflecting his keen interest in the game here and he took the opportunity of the season opener to reflect on the importance of football and sport in general in the country and the sacrifices made in the last year due to COVID-19.  

In a letter addressed to the League of Ireland community he said: “During this past year there have been many reminders of the integral role within our society that is occupied by our sporting community. In towns, villages and suburbs across the country it has so often been our sports clubs and their members who have led initiatives to help, make contact with and reassure those of our people who are vulnerable or isolated at this time.

“It spoke profoundly of the role of our sports clubs and associations in creating and sustaining communities as places of belonging, of care and of shared interests and experience. Not only do they contribute to our cultural and sporting life, they also enable young people to flourish with dignity and self-esteem and so reach their potential. 

“Sport connects neighbour to neighbour, promotes intergenerational solidarity and unites a diverse people in a common language. In terms of participation through the generations, club soccer is to the foreground.

“May I take this opportunity, therefore, to thank all those who have continued their important work throughout this challenging period, making the continuation of the League of Ireland possible, ensuring that matches are played and enabling supporters to continue their commitment to their local teams.”

While the President wished Rovers and Dundalk “every success as they compete for this year’s President’s Cup”, with both team’s shirts adorned with gambling sponsors it was interesting to note President Higgins referencing gambling in his letter to the football community.

“Sadly, the consequences of coronavirus related restrictions has led to increased gambling by those who are isolated, and unable to attend or participate in sports events at this time.

“May we all continue to work to protect our sports, and to support the game of football, its clubs and the FAI for all sports lovers.”

He concluded his letter thanking supporters for continuing “to generously encourage and applaud their teams virtually, as they wait patiently for the day they can once more do so in person. As a new season kicks off, I wish you all an enjoyable and successful season.”

President's Cup Preview: Shamrock Rovers -v- Dundalk https://t.co/u8FWNkwj8Ppic.twitter.com/0CnzQPdysu

— Extratime.com (@ExtratimeNews) March 11, 2021