George Fitzgerald (35) of Co. Waterford is no stranger to competition. A member of Waterford Special Olympics Club, he represented Ireland in the 2013 PyeongChang Games, won bronze at the 2010 European Games and travelled to the Austria 2017 Games as the captain of the Irish floorball team. Having played basketball for Waterford Club since 2003, George has now qualified as a coach and a referee through Basketball Ireland, the national governing body for basketball in Ireland.
He currently coaches his club and recently was a referee at his first non-Special Olympics game: U12 Wildcats Waterford against Berkley in Thomastown. Speaking about his latest qualifications in advance of European Basketball Week 2017, George said: “It gives me more understanding of the game itself and it is great to be involved more in so many games." The Regional Director for Munster Region, Eóin O’Beara said, “George is a naturally talented athlete and a joy to watch on the court. He is a fantastic ambassador!"