The excitement is building all over Ireland as preparations for their first ever assault on the miniEURO gather pace.
The Irish Minifootball Association (IMA) is putting the finishing touches to its trials day, as the process of picking the players who are best suited to the tournament gets into full swing.
The IMA plans to select a preliminary squad of around 30 for the trials, with the ultimate aim of selecting 12 players who will be pulling on the green shirt in Crete when the tournament happens in October.
For IMA President Declan Ford participation in the miniEURO event has become a passion since he attended the first competition, held last year in Moldova.
“From the moment I saw the tournament and saw how exciting it was – and the crowds that were generated in Chisinau, I was desperate that Ireland should be a part of it.
“Now we have the chance to let 12 players sample the unique atmosphere that I found so intoxicating, and it is a tremendous thing to be able to do.”
Although the Irish team, which will be making its debut in 2013, will be up against much more experienced contenders, Declan said that he has no doubt that the quality of players in Ireland will more than hold their own.
“Some of the countries will be very dangerous, particularly Romania, last years winners, who are a very, very good side, but we know how good our players are too. Our message to everyone is simple: Watch out for the Irish!”