Several figures from across the Northern Ireland football community have been recognised in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List 2026.
Among those honoured is former Irish FA Disability Manager Alan Crooks, who has been awarded an MBE for services to disability football.
Crooks, who now serves as Performance Pathways Manager at Disability Sport Northern Ireland, said:
“I am delighted to receive this prestigious award for services to disability football during my 22 years with the Irish FA. I thoroughly enjoyed creating and developing opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in football activities.
“I have many fond memories and friendships formed with players, staff and volunteers, and this unexpected MBE is the icing on the cake.”
Irish FA Board member Helen Kirkpatrick OBE has also been recognised in the Honours List for services to economic development and innovation.
Speaking after receiving the honour, she said:
“I want to thank those who nominated me. It is a real privilege, and I am deeply honoured by this recognition of my work.
“So many people have supported me over the years across education, sport, business and charity to help make a difference. This award is as much for them as it is for me and my family.”
Also recognised is former Irish FA Board member and Irish FA Stadium Development Company Chair, Trevor Annan MBE, who has been honoured for services to business, sport and charity in Northern Ireland.
Meanwhile, BBC Sport NI presenter Stephen Watson MBE has been recognised for services to broadcasting, kidney transplant awareness and fundraising.
Watson has been a familiar and respected voice covering Northern Ireland teams throughout much of his broadcasting career. Speaking to BBC Sport NI following the announcement, he said sport has “an incredible ability to bring communities together and, often, to provide good news and a sense of connection”.
Another recipient is Stewart Smallwood BEM, who has been honoured for services to local football after making a significant contribution to the grassroots game over many years.
Smallwood said:
“I am both delighted and deeply honoured to have been put forward for, and to receive, the British Empire Medal in His Majesty The King’s Honours List.
“Football has been a huge part of my life since a young age and I have been privileged to be involved in the game as a player, coach, manager and referee over many years.
“Much of that journey has been through Churchill United FC and Institute FC, clubs that have meant so much to me and have provided countless friendships and memories.
“Grassroots football is built on the dedication of volunteers and the support of so many people, and I have been fortunate to be involved alongside some wonderful individuals.”
Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood congratulated all those recognised.
He said:
“These honours are richly deserved and reflect the significant contribution each recipient has made to football and wider society.
“Everyone at the Irish FA is delighted to see their dedication, commitment and service acknowledged in this way. On behalf of the football family in Northern Ireland, I offer my sincere congratulations to each of them on this special achievement.”
