Ciaron Naughton receiving the Prince of Wales award.

Each Thursday we want to put the spotlight on a person involved with goalball – from players, officials to coaches, or anyone!

This week we caught up with Ciaron Naughton!

What club do you play for or coach?

The club I play for is Cambridge Dons.

How did you discover goalball?

I was introduced to goalball when I went to study at RNC College in Hereford. Aaron Ford invited me to an introduction session and I have never looked back since.

Ciaron Naughton diving after saving a shot and the ball might going in...VAR needed!

Is there a particular song, artist or genre that you listen to before a tournament to get in the mood? Or anything you’re loving at the moment?

I tend to listen to an audiobook or music on my phone but not anything specific.

Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals?

Not really, but I do like a bit of peace and quiet before training and games to get into the right mindset.

Ciaron Naughton shooting in a game for Cambridge Dons.

Do you have a favourite post-match meal?

On my way home I must admit that I like to have a Big Mac and fries – not the ideal meal after sport but it has to be done!

Which goalball player do you admire the most and why?

One of the players that I admire the most is Joe Roper (Fen Tigers and GB Men). Sorry Dons but Joe was a major influence when I first started playing goalball at RNC!

Ciaron Naughton passing the ball in a game for Cambridge Dons.

Outside of goalball, what other hobbies/sports do you do?

My other hobbies are swimming, walking, gaming, music and audio books.

Finally, what place, anywhere in the world, is on your bucket list to visit and why?

I want to re-visit Canada to see my relations and travel around as it is a beautiful country.

To check out the rest of the articles from our ‘Featured Thursday’ series please use the following link Goalball UK – Featured Thursday