At emerchantpay, we are committed to supporting our people who lead with purpose, embody our values and create a positive impact in and beyond the workplace. That is why we were honoured to sponsor the Irish football team at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics after our colleague, Niall Fearon, shared the mission and significance of the Games with us. As Financial Controller at emerchantpay, Niall plays a vital role within our finance team, and his dedication to Deaf sport gave us the opportunity to support a cause that reflects inclusion, perseverance and ambition on a global stage.
The Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics marked a historic milestone, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Games and the first time Japan has hosted this global event. From 15 to 26 November, athletes from nearly 85 nations competed across 21 sports, demonstrating extraordinary skill, determination and the unifying power of Deaf sport.
Niall also played a central role at the Games, representing Ireland as Chef de Mission for Team Ireland. His involvement in Deaf sport spans more than two decades and reflects a long-standing commitment, marked by achievement, service and unwavering dedication.
A legacy of leadership in Deaf sport
A former elite athlete, Niall represented Ireland deaf football team in five consecutive Deaflympics from 1985 Los Angeles, USA, 1989 Christchurch, New Zealand,1993 Sofia, Bulgaria, 1997 Copenhagen, Denmark and 2001 Rome, Italy. He achieved multiple medals for Ireland in Deaflympics and European football championships, contributing to Ireland’s strong international reputation in the sport. His leadership continued off the field: he served as technical staff for football at the Deaflympics in Sofia 2013 and Samsun 2017, supporting competition operations at the highest level under the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD).
Niall also made a significant impact on the European stage, serving as a Board Member of the European Deaf Sports Organisation (EDSO) from 2014 to 2022. His contributions helped strengthen policy, governance and athlete pathways across the continent. He now continues his leadership nationally as both Treasurer and Secretary General of Ireland, guiding Irish athletes and ensuring they are empowered to compete with confidence, pride and world-class support.
“My journey in Deaf sport has shaped who I am, both on and off the field. Working with emerchantpay while representing Ireland internationally has shown me the power of teamwork, inclusion and commitment. I’m grateful to contribute to a company and a community that both push for excellence.”Niall Fearon - Financial Controller at emerchantpay
The Deaflympics themselves highlight a unique sporting environment. Athletes rely on visual signals rather than sound, emphasising precision, awareness and communication. Beyond competition, the Games celebrate Deaf culture, community and accessibility. Tokyo’s dedicated Deaflympics Square offered an interactive hub where visitors could explore universal communication technologies.
Alongside his sporting leadership, Niall has also been a valued member of the Finance team at emerchantpay for seven years. As Financial Controller, he plays a vital role in managing financial operations, strengthening internal processes and supporting cross-departmental initiatives. His leadership both in and beyond the workplace exemplifies emerchantpay’s values.
emerchantpay is proud to sponsor the Irish team at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics
Through our support, we honour the remarkable achievements of athletes and leaders like Niall. We celebrate our people who bring their passions into their working lives and take meaningful action on the causes that matter to them.
At emerchantpay, teammates regularly take part in community and charity activities, including the well-loved runs, tree planting campaigns and initiatives across our local offices all around the world, including Bulgaria and South Africa. These efforts bring people together for a good cause and shared purpose.
This sponsorship is about more than sport. We are proud to support colleagues like Niall, whose actions champion opportunity, inclusion and positive change far beyond the workplace.