Shamrock Rovers disability officer Graham Merrigan has been a wheelchair user his whole life and has attended games since his dad first brought him to a match in the RDS in the early 1990s. Now in his role, he is driving changes at Tallaght Stadium to ensure the venue is welcoming for everyone. The club has introduced a Hooperman Sensory Room, a Changing Places toilet and audio descriptive commentary services, all aimed at making the stadium a ground for all supporters.
The club moved LED screens after they were found to be blocking the view of wheelchair users at European games. Despite this, Graham often moves from his traditional spot on the South Stand to the East Stand due to a lack of space in the wheelchair bays. There are only three wheelchair bays at Tallaght Stadium, and in the final pre-COVID season in 2019, there was a handful of wheelchair users regularly attending. The number of wheelchair users is now closer to 20, showing progress but highlighting ongoing challenges.
Beyond wheelchair access, Shamrock Rovers offer a Hooperman Sensory Room, a quiet environment for fans with autism or other sensory needs. The club also provides a Changing Places toilet and audio descriptive commentary services. These additions complement the existing facilities and demonstrate the club's commitment to inclusivity.
Graham Merrigan help a father and his son attending a match after the father emailed him pre-season. The father and son attended a match at the end of last season, and after the matchday experience, the father wanted to invest in a season ticket. This story illustrates the positive impact of the club's accessibility efforts on individual supporters.
Shamrock Rovers sit first in the Premier Division with 55 points from 28 games (16W-7D-5L), a goal difference of +19 after scoring 46 and conceding 27. They are five points clear of St Patrick's Athletic and come off a 3-3 draw with Derry City on 30 August 2026. Their next fixture is away to St Patrick's Athletic on 11 September 2026.
Graham Merrigan's work and the steps Shamrock Rovers are taking to improve access at Tallaght Stadium are ensuring that the beautiful game is accessible to all fans regardless of ability.
