Ahead of their daunting clash with all-conquering Spain tomorrow in New York, the Irish squad took time out to visit the families devastated by Hurricane Sandy in Breezy Point.
John Delaney, Giovanni Trapattoni and some of the players visited the Queens area that has been badly affected from the hurricane, and area that has strong Irish connections. According the the last census, 63 per cent of residents in Breezy Point claim to have Irish origin and a GAA delegation also visited the area last year.
Some of the players had a kickabout with local children and the FAI handed out 20 tickets for the game with world champions Spain at Yankee Stadium in addition to donating signed jerseys for auction towards the relief fund.
John Delaney and Giovanni Trapattoni with special commemoration jerseys
The travelling party were given a tour of the area and were told that roughly three-quarters of the population are scattered elsewhere with so many houses either destroyed or in need of serious repair.
Trap was keen to highlight the significance of their visit to help boost the morale of the local community, but also to appreciate just how difficult it has been for the residents of Breezy Point.
The squad led around Breezy Point
“They have to see this situation and realise that in one day your whole life can change,” he said.
“We live one life and we do not have time to think about these situations. We have to reflect on what happened here and in other places.”
A nice touch from the travelling Irish party.
