More than 100 young volunteers from across Ulster have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to grassroots sport, celebrating a new generation of community volunteers dedicated to strengthening local clubs.
The awards ceremony, held at The MAC Belfast, honoured young people aged between 14 and 24 who have committed significant time to volunteering within their communities. Participants were recognised for completing milestones of 50, 100, and 200 hours of service, supporting everything from coaching and event organisation to club development and youth mentorship.
The event was hosted by broadcaster Lynette Fay and jointly organised by Ulster GAA, Ulster Rugby, and the Irish FA. The collaboration, supported by the Department for Communities and the Communities Fund highlights a shared commitment across the main sporting bodies to encourage youth engagement and foster a culture of volunteering.
Special Guest speakers, Ulster Rugby Star Harry Sheridan and Armagh’s All Ireland Champion and recent Armagh County Champion with Madden Raparees, Niall Grimley gave powerful insights into the role and impact of volunteers on their sporting success. Both athletes also reflected on their own experiences of volunteering, highlighting the importance of giving back and staying connected to their club communities.
Thomas Martin, a young volunteer with the Irish FA and a wheelchair user living with Cerebral palsy, inspired the packed audience as he spoke how volunteering has positively impacted on his life. His uplifting testimony showed that there really is a volunteering role for everyone in sport.
Following the presentation of awards of 50, 100 and 200 hours volunteering, the audience were treated to a showcase of the real impact of young people volunteering in sport through a ‘Rising Star’ panel discussion with Bronagh McAneney (Kilcoo GAA), Mia Patterson (Lisburn Rangers FC) and Stuart Campbell (Ulster Rugby). All of whom spoke about their experiences volunteering in sports, the challenges and the rewards. They were a great advertisement for clubs getting young people involved in volunteering in their clubs.
Speaking after the event Ulster GAA President Michael Geoghegan said, “This event is always inspirational and full of energy and enthusiasm. It shines a well-deserved spotlight on the young people who gave up their time and offer their skills and insights for the betterment of their local sports clubs. There is no doubt their efforts are having a meaningful impact on the growth and development of sport across Ulster.”
Praising the inspirational young volunteers, Director of the Irish FA Foundation James Thompson said, “This event showcases the dedication, leadership, and community spirit shown by the young award recipients. Many of the young volunteers have played vital roles in sustaining local sports clubs, particularly in recent years where volunteer support has been essential to maintaining participation and inclusion.”
Highlighting the importance of the Sports Inspire Awards Programme Ulster Rugby President Paul Harte said, “The initiative not only recognises individual achievement but also aims to inspire more young people to get involved in volunteering. Our Sports Inspire Awards Programme is much more than logging volunteering hours, it’s about young participants gaining valuable life skills including teamwork, communication, and leadership—qualities that extend far beyond the playing field that will serve the young person and their club well in the future.”
The celebration at The MAC served as both recognition and encouragement, reinforcing the importance of youth contribution in shaping the future of sport across Ulster.
For more information, and how to get involved in the Sports Inspire Awards Programme, please contact your relevant sport:
Irish FA: stephen.erskine@irishfa.com
Ulster GAA (all codes): Sharon.haughey.ulster@gaa.ie
Ulster Rugby: nicci.wilson@ulsterrugby.com
