Mayo man impresses on International Tennis stage

Irish Tennis players have had their best ever week at the International Blind Tennis Association (IBTA) European Championships. 

Vinny Keane, a native of Aughagower in Westport but now based in Waterford finished third overall in both the singles and doubles. Keane performed impressively on an individual level while also in the doubles pairing. The man who is one of the very best in Ireland was paired with Dana Granowski from Germany as the duo competed amongst the elite international players in Poland.

Keane was similarly thrilled: “I cannot stop beaming with pride and absolute awe! This incredible feeling of pure triumph is all thanks to my family and supporters,” he said. “To be a double medallist for Ireland at the European Championships for Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis, every single ounce of effort, every gruelling training session, and every moment of competitive pressure has culminated in this magnificent victory. Team Ireland stood on the European stage and showed the world the depth of our skill, our courage, and our unwavering heart.” 

Coach Simon McFarland praised the athletes’ commitment and the collective effort behind their success: “It was an absolute pleasure to lead this group of outstanding athletes to Poland, and we are extremely proud of every one of them. To achieve this medal haul at a major event is testament to all the visually impaired coaching groups across the island, and we hope this will inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps.” 

The achievements in Poland mark another milestone for Ireland’s growing Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis community, demonstrating the strength, spirit, and support driving the programme forward.

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