The Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club hosted the Vincent Lacke Memorial Soccer Tournament at the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre on Sunday last.

The tournament served as a tribute to Vincent, great supporter Kerry Stars. who passed away last October and brought together men's and women's teams from across Kerry, Tipperary, and Cork for a day of competition.
Vincent’s sister, Mary Lyne, was present to award the winning teams their trophies and medals.
The Kerry Stars club expressed thanks to referees Ann-Marie Murphy and Jordan O'Rourke, as well as Suzanne Scully and Derry Fleming of the Order of Malta, for their invaluable contributions.
The club also acknowledged the support of the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre staff and the parents and friends who provided food and refreshments.
Visiting teams from Mallow, Tipperary, and Cope Leeds complimented the Kerry Stars on the welcoming atmosphere and high level of competition.
Kerry Stars Soccer Head Coaches Kathleen Fitzgerald and Patrick Fuller expressed their pride in the athletes' performances.

"Vincent would have been so proud of every single one of you," they said. "We are so proud of our wonderful athletes, and it’s clear to see the legacy of Vincent continues to inspire us all.”
Club Chairperson Claire Doherty thanked all those who made the event possible and reaffirming the club's commitment to providing opportunities for athletes with special needs.
The Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club offers a range of sports programmes, including athletics, basketball, soccer, and swimming, as well as an Adult Athlete Leadership Programme. They are currently seeking new coaches. For more information on joining or

volunteering, contact kerrystars63@gmail.com or visit www.kerrystarsspecialolympicsclub.ie.
Remembering Vincent Lacke

Vincent Lacke, originally from Hickory Hills, Illinois, USA, resided in Killarney with his sister Mary, her husband Mike, and their family.
He joined the Kerry Stars in 2009 and actively participated in athletics, soccer, and the Athlete Leadership Programme.
Vincent represented the club at multiple Munster Regional Competitions and twice competed in the All-Ireland Games, bringing home silver medals in soccer in both 2016 and 2018. Beyond his athletic achievements, Lacke was a dedicated member of the Kerry Stars community, regularly participating in events such as St. Patrick's Day parades, the Killarney Rotary Wine and Art Black Tie Ball, and fundraising initiatives.