Shanahan asks fans to support Ryan and Ethan

Déise hurling legend Dan Shanahan has urged sports fans in the south-east to turn out in force for a unique charity soccer game in Waterford on Saturday.

A team of GAA legends including Shanahan, John Mullane and Ken McGrath will take on a Waterford United selection to raise funds for Tramore brothers Ryan and Ethan McCormack, who are suffering from a rare illness.

It’s understood that some former Cork players such as Joe Deane will also participate in the game.

“This is a very worthy cause,” said Shanahan yesterday. “Everyone in Waterford is behind the McCormacks and everyone wants to do something to help the two lads.

“I’ll be there, though I don’t know if I’ll be able to contribute much to the game — I might go in goal altogether.”

Ryan (6) and Ethan (4) both have adrenoleukostrophy, or ALD, the illness brought to the world’s attention by the movie Lorenzo’s Oil.

The game kicks off at 2pm in the Regional Sports Centre, Waterford. Tickets are €5. There will be prizes on offer at the game, including a trip for two to a Premier League match.

“I’d ask anyone in Waterford to buy a ticket for this game,” said Shanahan, Hurler of the Year in 2007. “Come out to the game, it’ll be a great day, but the important thing is to row in behind Ryan and Ethan. These two lads have been very brave.”

There are other events in the pipeline: last Saturday saw the launch of the Save Ryan & Ethan Waterford Viking Marathon Challenge at Tramore GAA club, an initiative which is seeking participants in the Waterford Viking Marathon this June.

* For details, log on to www.facebook.com/saveryanandethan