Staunton Opens Sporting Legends Exhibition at County Museum

One of Louth’s greatest sporting sons, Stephen Staunton, received a warm welcome at the County Museum Dundalk on Wednesday morning.

The former Liverpool and Aston Villa star, who won 102 caps for the Republic of Ireland, was on hand to view his famous green jersey from the 2001 World Cup Qualifier against Portugal. The shirt is one of a collection of iconic sporting jerseys now on display in the County Museum’s new exhibition.

Also featured are jerseys from local athlete – and Ireland’s fastest sprinter – Israel Olatunde, rugby legend Rob Kearney, trailblazing boxer and Drogheda-native Deirdre Gogarty, the late Olympian Maeve Kyle, and former Dundalk FC goalkeeper Charles ‘The Wizard’ Tizard.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Stephen Staunton was part of a special Irish team that gave every football fan around the country a host of wonderful memories. He is a true legend of Dundalk, and it is fitting that his shirt is the focal point of a new exhibition that celebrates the achievements of so many Irish sporting heroes.”

Brian Walsh, Curator at County Museum Dundalk, said: “This exhibition brings together jerseys worn by athletes who have represented their clubs, counties and country with distinction. Each shirt tells its own story of determination, pride and sporting excellence. We are delighted to showcase these remarkable items and to honour the men and women who wore them.”

The exhibition is now open at the County Museum in Dundalkand admission is free.

ENDS