Shairoze inspiring next generation of leaders on visit to Mayo school

FOOTBALLER Shairoze Akram is inspiring the next generation of leaders, on and off the pitch.

The Ballaghaderreen GAA clubman, who won an All-Ireland Under 21 title with Mayo, visited Kinaffe National School in Swinford yesterday to celebrate their new school team.

Shairoze presented participation medals to the team members to mark their achievements, receiving a warm welcome from all the pupils.

The pupils debuted their new football jerseys at the recent FAI primary schools tournament hosted by Mayo FAI at Kiltimagh Knock United.

The rural school is a thriving hub these days having welcomed children from Ukraine soon after the war started there two years ago. And they have been joined by children from a number of other countries since then too.

The children received an inspiring talk from Shairoze about all the possibilities that are out there for them in the future, be it on the sports field or in other aspects of life, as shown from his own journey in sport and his career.

Born in Pakistan, Shairoze moved to Ballaghaderreen when he was four. Until he learned how to speak English, he communicated by nodding his head and using hand gestures.

A visit by Mayo and local legend Andy Moran to his school inspired him to take up Gaelic football, and through his own talent and hard work he reaped the rewards on the pitch, and off it.

Shairoze has previously spoken about how sport helped him and his family integrate into the local community, highlighting its importance in helping to break down barriers, building friendships and stronger communities.