CORONAVIRUS: O’Kane proud of City of Derry COVID-19 effort to help community

Paul O’Kane has pledged City of Derry Rugby Club will continue to do everything in its power to aid any vulnerable members of society during the current COVID-19 crisis.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the club offered its services to anyone who requires assistance due to the social distancing and isolation protocols in places through its facebook page. The social aspect of the club is as important as the rugby according to O’Kane who said they were happy to play any small part.

“I was thinking, ‘How can we help?’ so I threw up the notice online and asked if anyone needs any help to contact us,” explained the Derry coach, “It doesn’t matter if someone is connected to the club or not, if we can help we will.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We had guys contacting us from England, asking if someone could pop around and check how their mother and father was. These guys were attached to the club but they couldn’t get home and wanted someone to tell them things were okay. The guys were talking away to their parents but weren’t sure if their mum and dad were maybe painting a rosier picture to save them worrying.

The coronavirus outbreak has seen all AIL leagues cancelled.The coronavirus outbreak has seen all AIL leagues cancelled.
The coronavirus outbreak has seen all AIL leagues cancelled.

“We have done a few runs for prescription and things. It was a real eye opener seeing how some folk struggle, especially older folk, just for simple things.”

O’Kane said it was a source of great pride to see the club’s diverse background coming to the fore at a time of need.

“Sometimes people don’t realise how important that social side of a club is, it’s not not all about what goes on out on the pitch. The social side is massive and things like this make you realise just how diverse our club is.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“There was a great interview with the Under 18 squad and listening to it highlighted how many different backgrounds the boys are from which is a huge positive. It’s very heartening to see.

“There are so many good things happening around the club and we are happy to help. The coronavirus service is there to help anyone who needs it

Anyone requiring any form of assistance can contact the club through Facebook or ring Paul O’Kane on 07872569505.