Man United legend pays a visit to Ballina Town Football Club
Rio Ferdinand sits under the iconic number 5, he wore for England and Man United, in the Ballina Town dressing room. Picture: John O'Grady.
Ballina Town Football Club welcomed a Manchester United legend to Belleek Park yesterday.
Rio Ferdinand, winner of six Premier League titles with the Red Devils, paid a visit to surprise younger members of the club who were beyond themselves with excitement at his arrival.
The legendary centre-back was generous with his time, taking photos and signing jerseys for the club's youngsters.
Rio himself was immediately impressed by his surroundings in Belleek.
“I love it, it reminds me of when I was a kid playing football, reminds me of nice memories. It is always good to come to places like this and to celebrate people who put a lot into the community and with young people,” he said.
Rio was in the area as part of his work with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, who are hosting a Beyond The Ball celebration event at the home of Sligo Rovers, the Showgrounds, this morning.
The Foundation have frequently collaborated with Ballina Town since they first started working in Ireland.
The event in Sligo today celebrates the Foundation’s programme alongside the International Fund For Ireland, which aims to unite young people from different communities through their love of the 'beautiful game'.
The day will end with a showcase football match between youngsters from the southern border counties and Northern Ireland.
