Robbie Keane’s return to the Emerald Isle has allowed the Republic of Ireland forward a unique chance to not only invite his LA Galaxy teammates to his homeland, but also promote a cause near to his heart.
Keane and his wife Claudine signed on to be ambassadors for Special Olympics Ireland in January and since then, the pair has been a major part in the organization’s fundraising efforts.
Among the 88 athletes and 40 coaches who will require around $500,000 dollars in total or about $5,000 apiece are two soccer teams—both 11-a-side and 5-a-side groups—who will look to head to Los Angeles for this summer’s Special Olympics World Games. The tournament which involves athletes from 177 countries will take place in Los Angeles from July 25 to Aug. 2.
After donating $50,000 to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin earlier in the week, the altruistic Keane was back at work attempting to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics.
“These lads have voices, but are not heard,” said Keane.
“That’s why it’s up to me and my wife Claudine to be a part of this. I’m very lucky in what I do that sometimes people listen and I can help them and help push them to send them over because at the end of the day, they’re representing their country and wearing that green jersey.”
Claudine Keane was quick to echo her husband’s commitment to the cause while alluding to the impact that the 2003 tournament held in the Republic of Ireland had on the couple’s thinking.
“We jumped at the opportunity because this is every kind of philosophy in life that we believe with the acceptance and inclusion of everyone. The 2003 games were held in Ireland and it had such an amazing effect on the Irish people,” said Claudine. “It showed us what a huge message can be said on a big stage. It was really amazing that we can get involved.”
The support of the Keane family has certainly been a major fundraising boost for the Irish contingent who currently estimate are $250,000 shy of their goal of competing in Los Angeles.
“We’re thrilled that they’re supporting our two Special Olympic teams. Robbie is a great Irish ambassador,” Matt English, CEO Special Olympics Ireland said. “They’re making sure that everyone in Ireland knows about the Special Olympics and our involvement in the world games in L.A.”
In addition to supporting the cause, Keane invited members from Ireland’s Special Olympics soccer team the chance to train with his Galaxy teammates at Gannon Park. The experience left smiles on the faces of all of his compatriots but no grin was wider than Keane’s.
“They’re great lads and they’re very funny. I love being with them,” said Keane. “If I can help them and help them in any way possible on the training field by teaching them a few things or two, then I’d be happy with that.”
Keane pledges that once the funds are raised he’ll take care of Ireland’s squad promising them a trip to a few dinners and possibly even a trip to Hollywood if they’re lucky.
“For me, it’s so important,” the Galaxy captain said. “These are athletes at the end of the day and I’m very privileged about what I’ve achieved in my career and I’m very lucky to play in tournaments like the World Cup and the European Championship with everything paid for. These are athletes who don’t have that privilege. They have to get help to make sure that they get over there.
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog at LAGalaxy.com/Insider and contact him at LAGalaxyInsider@Gmail.com.
