Tipperary man will represent Ireland on the world stage at Special Olympics Winter Games

As excitement builds for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy next year, Special Olympics Ireland has announced the official selection of Team Ireland.

14 exceptional athletes, one of whom is Frank O’Dwyer from Tipperary Town, will represent the nation on the world stage.

30-year-old Frank has been active in Special Olympics with Tipperary Special Olympics Club for 12 years. In that time he has won 10 medals representing both Team Munster and Team Ireland across an array of sports including basketball, swimming, athletics, football and floorball.

His sporting interests include Manchester United, Limerick hurling and Munster rugby, while in his free time he loves the cinema and socialising with friends.

Frank’s advice to fellow athletes is “be a good team leader, support each other and respect your coaches and volunteers because without them we wouldn’t be here”.

Taking place from March 8 – 16 2025, the games will see over 1,500 athletes from 103 countries compete in eight winter sports, showcasing the dedication, talent and unbreakable spirit of athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Team Ireland’s athletes have trained tirelessly to secure their place, with eight athletes set to compete in floorball, a fast-paced team sport, and six athletes competing in Alpine skiing.

These athletes are a shining example of perseverance and determination, and their achievements are a testament to their hard work and passion for sport.

The official launch of Team Ireland was celebrated at an event in Salesforce Tower in Dublin, where athlete ambassador, Ashwin Malayaki, delivered an inspiring message as he introduced the teams, commending their hard work and commitment.

“Their teamwork and energy are unstoppable. They’ve trained hard and are a true force to be reckoned with at the Winter World Games,” he said.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan also spoke at the event, paying tribute to the athletes as true ambassadors for Ireland.

“Their passion, drive and commitment are a real inspiration, and I am so proud to be able to stand here today, celebrating this occasion with you.

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“You are all welcome to the Mansion House before you go, and we would be proud to have you back to the Mansion House for a celebration party when you return”.

Matt English, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, said “A huge thank you to all the clubs out there, we have over 260 across the island of Ireland.

“Thank you to the volunteers and to the family members who help and support our athletes week in and week out, and last but definitely not least, what an amazing achievement for these athletes, we are so proud.

“Let’s be there for Team Ireland, we need greater visibility for them, their stories deserve to be told, and we need the media to join us in celebrating their achievements”.