Castlederg man to represent Ireland at European Wheelchair Rugby Championships

CASTLEDERG man Conor Connolly will proudly represent Ireland at the upcoming 2025 WWR European Championship Division C in Norway on Tuesday, October 7, a remarkable achievement that highlights his determination, talent, and love of sport.

The 33-year-old is a member of Castlederg St Eugene's Gaelic Football Club, and has always had sport at the centre of his life.

He grew up playing football and Gaelic until a car accident changed his pathway.

Rather than stepping away from competition, Conor discovered wheelchair rugby and quickly made an impact.

“I only started playing rugby two years ago. I started playing with the Ulster Barbarians Wheelchair Rugby Club in Lisburn,” he explained.

Now, just two years later, he has been given the chance to represent Ireland at the European Wheelchair Rugby Championships

“It feels unreal to have been selected. It feels great and I am very privileged.”

The European Championships will take place just outside Oslo.

For Conor, it will be his first taste of an international competition.

“This is my first time going to Scandinavia. I can't wait to go, and it will be a very good experience,” he said.

As the Irish team competes at an amateur level, each player must raise €2,000 to cover essential costs such as flights, accommodation, and competition fees. Conor has already gone above his target thanks to the generosity of the local community.

“The fundraiser is to cover everything. And then the extra funds will go towards the next competition next year. I will hopefully be going to that one as well. I have raised over €3,000, and anybody can still donate towards it. This will go towards helping future events and players as well.”

The support of family, friends, and neighbours has been vital in helping Conor on his journey.

“I would like to give special thanks to everybody who has donated to the fundraiser and especially the Castlederg community. I would also like to thank my friends and family.”

Conor says he is looking forward to testing himself at the highest level and representing both Castlederg and Ireland with pride.

“I am very excited to get going. It will be very good experience.”

For him, the opportunity is about more than just sport, it is about resilience, determination, and finding new ways to achieve after life’s challenges.

Anyone wishing to support Conor can still donate directly to his fundraiser at: www.idonate.ie/team/ConorConnolly