A memorable night in Dublin as Foundation Gala Dinner raises vital funds for Ability Counts | OneFootball

On Thursday night, Celtic FC Foundation hosted our inaugural Dublin Gala Dinner in the stunning surroundings of The Round Room at the Mansion House and it proved to be a truly unforgettable evening.

It celebrated a momentous chapter in Irish sporting history, while raising vital funds in support of the Foundation’s Ability Counts project in Glasgow and Ireland.

Around 200 guests – including members from a host of Celtic supporters’ clubs across Ireland – were in attendance for a night to remember.

Sponsored by Avolon, Clarke Brothers Construction and EirTrade Aviation, the evening paid tribute to the 35th anniversary of Ireland’s heroic run to the quarter-finals of the Italia 90 World Cup.

Guests were treated to a nostalgic and heartwarming Q&A with six members of that legendary squad – Packie Bonner, Mick McCarthy, Chris Morris, Tony Cascarino, Ray Houghton and Ronnie Whelan – who shared stories, laughter and reflections from one of the most magical summers in Irish footballing memory.

Hosted by Darragh Maloney, the evening also included tremendous live entertainment from the incredible talents of Daniel Docherty, Donna Taggart and Damien Cullen, while Celtic Park’s own Liam McGrandles saw us out in style.

Through this vital initiative, we support children, young people and young adults with Down Syndrome or who are neurodiverse, to engage in physical activity through the power of sport.

In recent years, we’ve expanded the project beyond Scotland. Ability Counts is now delivered in four Irish counties – Donegal, Derry, Sligo and Mayo. Each project draws on the strengths of our Glasgow strands, with a shared focus on inclusion, multi-sport participation, play and personal development.

Just before the live auction, Jacqueline Brown shared the personal, emotional and inspirational story of how her sons have benefited from participation in Ability Counts and the incredible support received from Celtic FC Foundation.

Speaking of the Gala, Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, said: “Our first ever Dublin Gala Dinner has been an incredible success. We are so grateful to our sponsors – Avolon, Clarke Brothers Construction and EirTrade Aviation – and to every single person who attended and supported the event.

"From our special guests who made us laugh and reminisce, to the incredible artists who entertained us all, it truly was a night to remember. Most importantly, the funds raised will directly impact children, young people and young adults both in Glasgow and in Ireland, through our Ability Counts project.”

We would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Packie Bonner, Mick McCarthy, Chris Morris, Tony Cascarino, Ray Houghton, Ronnie Whelan, Darragh Maloney, Daniel Docherty, Donna Taggart, Damien Cullen, Liam McGrandles, Jacqueline Brown, all of our sponsors, everyone who donated prizes or bid in our auction or silent auction and, of course, each and every guest who attended. Your generosity and support will help change lives.

Please don’t ever underestimate the difference you’ve made.