Caoimhín Kelleher kicks off new season with Irish Guide Dogs Ambassador role

PRESS RELEASE

Ahead of the start of the new Premier League season, Irish Guide Dogs is delighted to announce that Republic of Ireland and Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been appointed as an official ambassador for the organisation.

The Cork native from Blackrock will support Irish Guide Dogs in raising awareness of its life-changing services for people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism. As an ambassador, Caoimhin will help highlight the vital work of the charity and encourage greater public support for its services, which are provided free of charge to those who need them.

Caoimhín joins an esteemed group of Irish Guide Dogs ambassadors, including football legend Roy Keane, Munster and Ireland rugby international Jack Crowley, actor and playwright Shane Casey (The Young Offenders), and broadcaster and podcaster Doireann Garrihy, all of whom actively support the organisation's mission of changing lives through mobility, independence and inclusion.

Caoimhín Kelleher said:

"I was delighted when Irish Guide Dogs asked me to become an ambassador. Having the opportunity to do a blindfold walk with one of their highly trained Guide Dogs gave me a real insight into the challenges that people who are blind or vision impaired face every day. It was an incredible experience and showed me the trust, skill and partnership that exists between a Guide Dog and its owner.

"I also had the chance to learn about the work of the charity's Assistance Dogs and the life-changing impact they have on children with autism and their families. Hearing those stories really brought home the difference these dogs make, giving children greater confidence and independence while providing support to the whole family.

"I'm proud to support Irish Guide Dogs, and I hope I can help raise awareness of the incredible work they do, encouraging more people to get involved by volunteering, fundraising or supporting the charity so that even more lives can be changed."

Welcoming the appointment, Tim O'Mahony, CEO of Irish Guide Dogs, said:

"We are absolutely delighted to welcome Caoimhín as an ambassador for Irish Guide Dogs. He is not only an exceptional athlete but also a fantastic role model for young people across Ireland. His support will help us raise awareness of the life-changing services we provide and inspire more people to learn about our work, volunteer, and support our mission.

"As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, Caoimhín's appointment is particularly significant. For five decades, Irish Guide Dogs has been changing lives through the partnerships we create, and we look forward to working with him to help even more people achieve greater independence and inclusion in the years ahead."

Photos: Caoimhín pictured with Puppy-in-Training Otto (Pic: Colm Lougheed)