Press Release
September 4, 2025 • 4 min read
At a gathering on the Virgin Media Park Rugby Grounds in Cork last week, Irish rugby legend Simon Zebo joined forces with young supporters, 12-year-old Logan O’Sullivan and his nine-year-old sister Aoibhinn from Caheragh, Co. Cork, to officially launch Jersey Day 2025, GOAL’s flagship national fundraising campaign, which will take place on Friday, October 10th.
At a gathering on the Virgin Media Park Rugby Grounds in Cork last week, Irish rugby legend Simon Zebo joined forces with young supporters, 12-year-old Logan O’Sullivan and his nine-year-old sister Aoibhinn from Caheragh, Co. Cork, to officially launch Jersey Day 2025, GOAL’s flagship national fundraising campaign, which will take place on Friday, October 10th.
Now in its 37th year, Jersey Day is once again set to unite communities, schools, clubs, and workplaces across Ireland in support of GOAL’s life-saving humanitarian work across 14 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. This year’s campaign is proudly sponsored by Premier Sports, whose partnership underscores a shared commitment to supporting global communities in crisis and helping them move from survival to resilience.
On Jersey Day, people are encouraged to wear their favourite sports jersey, be it GAA, soccer, rugby, basketball, hockey, or even a custom creation, and make a small donation to GOAL. Creativity is highly encouraged, and the more unique the jersey, the better.
Last year, over 40,000 participants from 120 businesses and 420 schools helped raise an incredible €240,000 for GOAL. This year, with Premier Sports leading as our title sponsor and rallying corporate support, we’re aiming even higher, with a fundraising target of €250,000.
Every contribution will support vulnerable communities in Gaza, Sudan, and other crisis-affected regions. Join us and be part of a powerful movement for change.
Speaking at the launch, Cork native and former Ireland international Simon Zebo shared his passion for both sport and solidarity:
“Growing up in Cork, I was always taught the importance of community and looking out for those in need. That’s why I’m proud to support GOAL. Their work brings real hope and practical help to people in the toughest situations around the world, helping communities survive, adapt, and rebuild after disaster. They stand up for humanity.”
“I’m especially proud to champion Jersey Day. I was sport mad growing up, playing hurling, football, and rugby And I was lucky enough to go on and represent my province and country, with 35 international caps and a Lions Tour in 2013. Here in Ireland, sport is more than just a game, it’s part of who we are.”
“We’ve all got that one jersey. The one that’s soaked in memories; big wins, tough losses, the passion and pride of being part of something bigger than yourself. That jersey tells a story. It says: These are my people. This is my team. So, I’m calling on YOU to get involved. Wear your colours. Represent your club, your school, your workplace, your county, your country. Rally your teammates, classmates, and colleagues. It’s not just about the jersey. It’s about standing together and raising vital funds for GOAL’s life-saving work around the world. This is your call-up. GOAL needs you,” continued Simon Zebo.
Also speaking at the launch of Jersey Day 2025, Nafisa Brennan, GOAL’s Senior Fundraising Manager said,
“Jersey Day is more than just a fundraising event. It’s a national celebration of togetherness, solidarity, and sport. It also offers a meaningful opportunity for connection in workplaces, schools and communities across Ireland, helping to foster a sense of camaraderie while supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.’”
“This year, thanks to Premier Sports, we’re bringing something new to the table: Competition Alert! Everyone who registers for Jersey Day will be in with a chance to win two tickets to see the World Cup qualifier between Ireland vs Portugal at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Thursday 13th Nov, plus a signed Irish Men’s Soccer Jersey.”
“With the help of Premier Sports, GOAL aims to bring Jersey Day to a wider audience this year, through the broadcaster’s drama-filled schedule of Investec Champions Cup and URC rugby as well as UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Conference League and Premier League soccer. Along with their dedicated and experienced presenting and punditry teams, Premier Sports fully understand the power of the sports jersey in driving communities towards achieving common goals. Please register today at jerseyday.org” continued Nafisa Brennan.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
- Schools will celebrate Jersey Day on Friday, October 10th, while businesses can choose any day in October to take part.
- Register now at jerseyday.org. Proudly supported by Premier Sports.
- Participants are encouraged to share their stories, photos, and colourful jerseys on social media using the hashtag #GOALJerseyDay, helping to spread the message and inspire others to join in.
