Shelbourne FC Launch Pride Cup: Celebrating Diversity in Irish Football

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Shelbourne FC is thrilled to announce the launch of the Shelbourne FC Pride Cup, an annual tournament celebrating diversity in our community and in Irish football. This year’s event, called “5 a-side for Pride,” promises to be a fun and inclusive tournament that will take place at Tolka Park on Sunday, June 25, 2023, from 12pm to 4pm.

The Pride Cup 2023 will bring together 16 teams, consisting of Shelbourne legends, senior men and women, as well as talented Ireland internationals, clubs and groups from the local community and more. It will serve as a platform to showcase the incredible talent within the LGBT+ community while promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants. All are welcome to participate in the tournament.

Shelbourne FC will also be marching in the Dublin Pride Parade this year, with all facets of the club, mens, women, academy and football for all inclusion teams flying the Red and Rainbow flag on Saturday June 24th, 2023. Shelbourne FC will also launch a limited edition Rainbow Reds t-shirt the week of the Dublin Pride Parade with proceeds going to support the LGBT Ireland national support helpline.

19 May 2023; Shelbourne FC v St. Patricks Athletic, League of Ireland Premier Division, Tolka Park, Dublin. Picture by Eoin Smith/Shelbourne FC

John McGouran, community officer at Shelbourne FC says the programme planned for this year’s Pride Festival will be the biggest ever undertaken by the club: “We are incredibly proud to launch the Shelbourne FC Pride Cup, and our expanded Pride celebrations, and we’re proud to champion and celebrate the diversity within our community and highlight the inclusive nature of Irish football. This tournament is an opportunity for us to come together, unite, and show our support for the LGBT+ community. We invite everyone to join us for a day of fun, friendly competition, and solidarity.”

The Shelbourne FC Pride Cup is open to all, we are encouraging clubs, groups of friends, and work colleagues to register and take part in the tournament.

To register, teams are required to pay a fee of €50, which will contribute directly to supporting the important work of LGBT+ organizations. By participating in the event, teams will not only have the chance to showcase their football skills but also make a meaningful contribution to a worthy cause.

The tournament promises to be a memorable occasion, filled with high-quality football, camaraderie, and a celebration of diversity. The Pride Cup 2023 will not only showcase the talent within the LGBT+ community but also serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion in sports.

To register a team for the Pride Cup please click here.

For more information about the Shelbourne FC Pride Cup or to march with the club in the Dublin Pride Parade, please contact John.McGouran@shelbournefc.ie