Sligo Rovers can today confirm that The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI) will be our charity partner for the 2021 season.

The Aughamore Day Care Centre will be particularly supported.

Each year the Bit O’ Red partner with one charity or cause and provide support in terms of fundraising and awareness to assist their work.

This year The ASI has been chosen by Sligo Rovers, with all funds raised during the partnership being ring-fenced for dementia-specific supports and services in Sligo.

Earlier this year it was confirmed that former Sligo Rovers manager Billy Sinclair, who led the club to the 1977 league title, has been diagnosed with dementia.

This year’s choice has been made with Billy in our thoughts.

The ASI provides supports and services in the Sligo area including Dementia Adviser, Home Care and Day Care at Home and also the Aughamore Day Care Centre, which provides dementia-specific, person-centred care to meet the needs of the person with dementia in a warm, welcoming and safe environment while providing support and stimulation.

They work with each person to ensure they feel comfortable and supported and their individual needs are meet as far as possible.

They also offer a wide range of activities including reminiscence therapy, music sessions, gentle exercises, arts and crafts and personal care.

This year, Sligo Rovers will commit to a number of initiatives to support The ASI’s Sligo supports and services.

Sligo Rovers chief executive Colin Feehily said: “We’re delighted to assist Aughamore Day Care Centre this year in any way we can.   

“The news of Billy Sinclair’s diagnosis weighed on all of us at Sligo Rovers. The club spoke with Billy’s family and committed our support and best wishes.

“Going forward the management committee and I opted to support Aughamore Day Care Centre as part of Billy’s incredible legacy at the club. We want to give a local facility a helping hand.

“Many of those who avail of the service in Aughamore are Rovers fans.

“We will develop our relationships with Aughamore Day Care Centre and The Alzheimer Society Of Ireland and shortly announce the projects we will do together.”