Waterford man with deep roots in the county’s GAA community is preparing to lead one of the most inspiring stories of this year’s World GAA Games.

Mount Sion native Padraig Fanning will bring a team from Zambia to Waterford for the international festival of Gaelic games, which takes place from July 13th to 17th.

The World GAA Games will welcome more than 2,000 players, coaches and officials from over 140 teams representing clubs from across the globe, but few journeys have been as remarkable as that of the Zambian squad.

Fanning has spent the past 25 years living and working in Zambia after initially travelling there as a teacher. Alongside his wife, he helps run a volunteer-led school through the ZAMDA charity, providing education, food and clothing for orphaned and vulnerable children in the town of Kabwe.

What began as the occasional kickabout with O’Neills footballs soon developed into a dream of introducing Gaelic football to the children. When Fanning learned that the World GAA Games were coming to Waterford, he contacted organisers to ask if his team could take part.

That dream quickly became a reality.

After receiving confirmation just before Christmas, preparations began in earnest, with months of training and fundraising helping to overcome the significant logistical challenges of bringing a team from southern Africa to Ireland. Fanning praised the generosity of supporters in both Zambia and Ireland, saying offers of accommodation, playing gear and financial assistance helped make the trip possible.

For many of the players, the visit to Waterford will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The squad comes from one of Zambia’s poorest communities, where many have grown up in extreme poverty without access to basic amenities. Some have recently recovered from malaria, while others have only recently received their first pair of football boots after previously playing barefoot.

Fanning believes the experience will be life-changing, allowing the young players to travel abroad, experience a new culture and represent their country on an international stage.

There is also a personal connection to the Games, with the Zambian team being paired with Mount Sion GAA Club, the club synonymous with the Fanning family.

While admitting he will feel an extra sense of pride leading the team into the opening ceremony in Waterford, Fanning insists the focus remains firmly on the players and the memories they will create.

The World GAA Games get underway on Monday, July 13th, with competition taking place at S E T U Arena before the finals are held at Azzurri Walsh Park on Friday, July 17th

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