Double celebration for Larne as football team and boccia star make history on the same day

In addition to becoming the first Irish League club to seal a spot in the group stages of European competition, Larne FC’s voluntary access disability officer Claire Taggart was making her mark at the Paralympic Games in Paris.

Taking part in the games’ first-ever women’s only boccia competition, Claire, representing ParalympicsGB, got off to a dream start with a 10-1 win against Ecuador’s Joselyn Leon.

The world number one said: “I’m pretty buzzing. I’ve been to three Paralympic Games and never won an individual game. I didn’t play individuals in Rio, I lost all three games individually in Tokyo so to get my first win over the line is a nice little settler and hopefully a good sign of things to come.

"I’m really excited for the rest of the competition. I’m hoping to keep getting into that flow and keep going.”

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And on seeing her family in the crowd at the South Paris Arena with T-shirts made just for the occasion, Claire added: “It’s been amazing to see Team Taggart in the stands - I’m really pleased my Mum didn’t put my face on a T-shirt. But I’m ok with Team Taggart!”

As disability access officer at Inver Park, Claire ensures that the club is accessible and inclusive for all supporters, fans, players, and staff with disabilities.

Prior to her opening game there was this message from Larne FC: “The whole town and community are behind you, Claire. Join us in wishing our disability access officer Claire Taggart the best of luck as she prepares for the Paralympics 2024 in Paris.”

Larne made their way to the UEFA Conference League group stages after defeating Gibraltar outfit Lincoln Red Imps 3-1 at Inver and 4-3 on aggregate.