Our Board

Meet the Board

Founder of the Dillon Quirke Foundation

Dan Quirke

Fuelled by an unimaginable loss, Dan Quirke, Dillon's father, channelled his loss into a powerful force for good. Alongside his family, he established the Dillon Quirke Foundation.

This foundation stands as a permanent tribute to Dillon's memory, but more importantly, it will prevent other families from experiencing the devastating pain they've endured.

Dan's unwavering passion for the foundation is evident to anyone who encounters him. Whether in conversation or media appearances, his dedication to raising awareness about Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) shines through.

The Foundation's mission, focused on widespread cardiac screening for young athletes, is a direct result of Dan's commitment to saving lives. Through his tireless efforts, the Dillon Quirke Foundation ensures that Dillon's legacy extends far beyond the playing field, leaving a lasting impact on countless young people and their families.

As Dan said “our work would not be possible without the support of people across the country. We are grateful to all those who have donated to and supported the Foundation since our establishment, and we want to continue to raise funds to allow us to expand our reach and grow our free screening programme.”

Chair of the Board

Niall Quinn

Niall Quinn is the Chair of the Dillon Quirke Foundation.

He is a retired Irish footballer who enjoyed a stellar career playing for Arsenal, Manchester City, and Sunderland (92 caps for Ireland). He's the Republic of Ireland's second-highest scorer and a Hall of Famer at Manchester City and Sunderland.

After retirement, Niall served as Executive Chairman of Sunderland, leading them back to the Premier League. He also has experience in large-scale football transactions and nurturing young talent.

A passionate philanthropist, Niall donated his 2002 testimonial proceeds (€1.5m) to children's hospitals, a first for a footballer. He holds an honorary MBE and various awards for his charitable work.

Niall is a published author, TV personality (RTÉ, Sky Sports), and entrepreneur (Mo Shoppa, Team Taca).

His passion for the cause is evident, and he takes great pride in serving as Chair of the Board. He firmly believes in the Foundation's mission and is committed to making a positive impact on young athletes' health and safety. Drawing from his own experience as a former international player, Niall keenly recognizes the vital importance of cardiac screening for young athletes.

Board Member

Simone Flannery

Simone Flannery has been involved with Irish Football for almost twenty years. Simone is the Women’s Player Executive and Office Manager with PFA Ireland (Professional Footballers Association of Ireland).

She was part of the Team that ensured better standards for the Women’s Irish National Team in 2017 and consistently works to improve standards for professional footballers, both men and women, within the League of Ireland.

Following the launch of the Dillon Quirke Foundation in April 2024, Simone was moved by the story behind the foundation and the passion that was there from those involved to try and prevent SADS within the sporting world in the future.

She is delighted to bring her experience and expertise from a sporting background to the Foundation and help in their aim to screen children 12-18 within sporting organisations, which will ultimately pick up any heart defects through the screening process.

Board Member

Declan Ryan

Declan Ryan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the Dillon Quirke Foundation. Combining a strong background in the agricultural industry and with his role as a Norbrook Laboratories representative since 1994.

A lifelong hurling enthusiast, Declan's passion for the sport stems from his participation at various levels. From his playing days with Tipperary to managing the Clonoulty Rossmore senior and junior teams in 2022 and 2023, his deep connection to the hurling community fuels his unwavering commitment to the foundation's mission.

As a parent of two young adult hurlers himself, he deeply understands the potential dangers young athletes face. Declan firmly believes the foundation will not only save lives but also leave a lasting legacy for Dillon.

He wholeheartedly supports the foundation's goals, driven by his lifelong passion for sports and his unwavering desire to ensure a safe environment for future generations of young athletes.