Players to go deaf in unique five-a-side fundraiser for Catherine Grier

Bonagee United are holding a fundraising five-a-side on Tuesday night for Irish Deaf Women’s Futsal star Catherine Grier - but it’s a tournament with a difference.

All players will be given ear plugs to experience just what it’s like to play while unable to hear team-mates, opponents, referees and spectators.

Ramelton native Grier, who was born with profound nerve deafness, had a cochlear implant installed in 2021, enabling her to hear sounds for the first time.

The 22-year-old plays for Donegal Women’s League league and cup double winners Bonagee United and was instrumental in their run to the Women’s FAI Amateur Cup final this summer.

Grier will go to Sao Paolo in Brazil in two weeks’ time for the World Deaf Futsal Championships and her team-mates have organised Tuesday’s tournament.

“The idea came from Catherine herself and has been driven on by the players,” says Bonagee United senior ladies manager Chris McNulty.

“Catherine has been a brilliant addition to Bonagee United this year. She is an inspirational figure in how she has never allowed deafness be a barrier to her life, be it in sport, in work, in college.

“The girls wanted to do something to mark Catherine going to the World Cup. We’re all very proud of her achievements any time she goes to wear the Irish shirt.

“Tuesday’s tournament will be a good chance for our squad to get together to wish Catherine well for the World Cup. It’s also an opportunity for everyone to perhaps feel the game from the perspective of Catherine and her Irish team-mates.”

Ireland have been drawn alongside England, Japan and Kenya in Group B for the World Cup.

Tuesday’s tournament kicks off at 7pm.