In a heartfelt display of solidarity and remembrance, two Trinity sport clubs Dublin University Football Club (DUFC) and Dublin University Sailing Club (DUSC) embraced the spirit of 'Darkness Into Light', an annual sunrise fundraising event for Pieta House which took place this year on Saturday 10 May 2025.
DUFC set off from Front Square at 4am for Darkness into Light 2025
DUFC (Trinity Rugby) organised a sunrise walk in memory of their former player Neil Howard who tragically passed away in May 2023. A small group of alumni, students, family and friends met at Front Square at 4am to walk 'from Darkness into Light'. As one of the DUFC group, Dr Michael McDonough, so eloquently described the event : “Walking from Front Square to The Docks at sunrise was a special and poignant journey in support of Pieta House and in memory of Neil and the wonderful Howard family. So many suffer terribly in our midst and need all our kindness, understanding and support.”
Meanwhile, Trinity Sailing joined the nationwide Darkness Into Light Sail for the first time, inspired by the success of the previous year’s initiative led by Irish Sailing and Dun Laoghaire’s waterfront clubs. Launching from the Royal St George Yacht Club at 4:30am, twenty of DUSC’s most dedicated members took to the water aboard three motorboats.
The morning unfolded in stunning serenity, with calm seas and clear skies setting the perfect scene for reflection. “It was such an incredible experience and so brilliant to be able to contribute to an event that's just so important and sends such a good message,” shared Kei Walker, DUSC’s alumni officer. “For a lot of people it resonates personally and all the money raised I'm sure will go a long way with Pieta House.”
DUFC at the Docks for Darkness into Light 2025.
Both events not only raised vital funds for Pieta House but also underscored the importance of community, remembrance and hope. With this year's success, Trinity’s Sports Clubs are already looking ahead to taking part again in 2026 and to continuing to shine a light in the darkness while raising funds for Pieta House.