Shelbourne to celebrate Pride with Dublin Devils friendly

Shelbourne will celebrate Pride 2017 with a special friendly featuring an all-star XI against Dublin's first gay and inclusive football team, the Dublin Devils, on Saturday, June 17^th.

Dublin LGBTQ runs from Friday, June 16^th to the following Sunday, June 24^th, and Shelbourne will fly the rainbow flag at Tolka Park throughout the festival.

And the Saturday afternoon will see an all-star team including former players Mark Rutherford, Stuart Byrne and Gary Howlett face the Leinster Football League side at Tolka.

Current manager Owen Heary and former boss Kevin Doherty are among the other players from Shels' glory days who are scheduled to line out, as is Tony Sheridan.

“We’re delighted to visit one of Ireland's most famous and successful football clubs,” said Dublin Devils chairperson John McAree.

“They are one of the giants of the Irish game. As Ireland’s first gay football team we’re proud and excited to play against this Shelbourne F.C. XI team.

“It’s a great start to our celebration of Dublin Pride 2017 and a brilliant step for both teams as we strive to stamp out homophobia in football.”

Shelbourne volunteer John McGouran added: “The 'Shels in the Community' initiative embraces the wonderful diversity that exists within our local community, and we are delighted to welcome Dublin Devils F.C. to Tolka Park to celebrate the Dublin LGBTQ Pride 2017.

“Dublin Devils have made tremendous strides in combating homophobia in football, a cause that is fully supported by all connected with Shelbourne FC, and we are very much looking forward to the match on 17th June.”

Kick-off is scheduled for 2pm at Tolka Park. Admission for the match is free.