Special Olympics athletes from the Leinster Region took part in a very special 5-a-side football tournament at Cathal Brugha Army Barracks, Rathmines in Dublin recently (Wednesday, April 7) as part of a team building exercise called “Reach your Goal” for PEI, Ireland’s leading medical supplies company.  Soccer supremo Niall Quinn was on hand to give top football tips to the teams representing Special Olympics athletes, PEI and the Defence Forces.

After an inspiring opening address by special guest Adi Roche, the tournament kicked off with each team competing in at least three matches culminating in a thrilling tournament final. Special Olympics athletes from various Clubs, Schools and Centres from the Leinster area were represented, including The Estuary Centre, Peamount Hospital, Kildare Services, St. Michaels House, Steadfast House, St. Mary's Centre, St. Patrick’s Centre, Prosper Fingal and St. Theresa's Club.

Following on from the tremendous goodwill and support at the World Games last year, PEI organised the day with Special Olympics Leinster and the event itself was supported by the Defence Forces, a long time supporter of Special Olympics Ireland, which provided the venue.  Many companies sponsored the day’s activities and celebrities, including Niall Quinn, lent their support to the tournament.  After the sporting action, a surprise guest presented the awards at the prize giving ceremony where every athlete received a gift pack and their clubs, schools or centres received a commemorative trophy and a video of the day.  The day’s entertainment continued with a BBQ and disco, with disc jockey Andy Preston from FM104.

PEI constantly endeavours to link its business activities with community events. This year the company’s annual sales meeting focuses on the theme “Reach Your Goal”.  PEI was the main organiser and coordinator of the fun day. PEI is one of Ireland’s largest independently owned Medical Sales, Marketing and Distribution Company representing some of the world’s leading suppliers of medical devices.