ENNIS Dons FC will host a fundraiser this Saturday in honour of former local soccer player Dylan White.
This Saturday (August 16), 16 teams will compete in a 7-a-side tournament at St Flannan’s at 10am.
Popular Ennis native Dylan passed away following a brain tumour diagnosis in April of this year, his passing marking a dark day for those in the wider Ennis community along with his teammates in Ennis Town FC and Éire Óg GAA.
Many members of Ennis Dons FC had a close relationship with Dylan, and the former St Flannan’s and Ennis National School student continued to attend Ennis Dons matches following his diagnosis to support his friends from the sidelines.
Following Dylan’s passing Ennis Dons held a minute’s silence in their match vs Shannon Town, held in St. Flannan’s.
“The game was to be called off for flooding on the pitch but a cohort of Dylan’s friends raced home, and in typical Sunday League fashion, returned with brushes and buckets to ensure the game went ahead,” explains Caoilfhinn McNelis of Ennis Dons. “There were over 100 people in attendance on the line, including Dylan’s girlfriend Ellen, and his own family. We won the match 2-1, even with Dylan’s best friend Mladen Vujnovic missing a penalty”.
Since his passing, Dylan’s girlfriend Ellen has raised well in excess of €10,000 by running the London 10k in his memory.
“We felt it would be nice for Dylan’s family and his close friends both in our club, but also supporting, to enjoy a day out in his memory, doing what he enjoyed.”
The tournament kicks off on August 16 at 10am. There are 16 teams registered, and over 130 players in attendance. Organisers would like to thank local businesses who have been “incredibly generous” in their sponsorship of food and drinks, spot prizes, and donations.
Following the tournament’s conclusion, there will be a rendevouz in Lucas’ Bar on Parnell Street.
