As part of a monthly feature, we get to know a little more about the organisations and the individuals that support the work of the Federation.
This month it’s the turn of Dennis O’Connor of 2Into3, who earlier this year made his international Hockey debut.
Can you tell us a little about how your business partners with the Federation and its members?
We provide consulting, recruitment and research services to the Federation and its members. Over the last year for example we helped: the Irish Sailing Foundation raise philanthropic investment for high-performance sailing: Cricket Ireland build the capacity of its clubs to apply for Sports Capital Grants and fundraise and supported a range of Clubs make their own application from G.A.A, Soccer, Rugby, Hockey and Cricket.
What is one of the issues that you might be able to solve?
Currently, Sport receives some 2 per cent of the €1 Billion philanthropic income available to Ireland’s Not-for-Profit sector. The potential is there to increase this to €100m per annum. We would like to help the Federations members access this level of investment.
What is your personal background in sport?
I played soccer at College and coached U.C.C to Crowley Cup title.
I’m a lifelong Cork Hurling supporter attending every All Ireland (with Cork) since 1976.
My other passion as a supporter is for Munster Rugby dating back to my school days at P.B.C Cork.
Later in life, I discovered Hockey and have attained my coaching credentials as a Hockey Ireland Level 1 Coach. On weekends you might find me living the dream as Player Manager with Avoca Men’s 3rds, and earlier in 2018 I made my debut with the Hockey Ireland Veterans team for over 55’s
What do you find most interesting about working in and around the sporting sector?
Witnessing High Performance and seeing the joy that participation brings.
What was the last sports event you attended?
I was in Cork for the brilliant Liam Miller charity match in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in September between Manchester United Legends and Celtic/Ireland legends.
If you had an open ticket which sporting event around the world would you attend?
I’d love to attend Game 7 of a Major League Baseball World Series, preferably with the Boston Red Sox playing.
And if you could arrange for one victory for a sports team or star that matters to you what would it be?
Munster winning the Heineken Champions Cup in May 2019 at St. James’ Park
