The outstanding individuals, clubs and volunteers who make grassroots football possible across Northern Ireland have been recognised at the 2026 McDonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards.
Now in their 26th year, the annual awards celebrate the dedication and commitment of those who give up their time to create opportunities, inspire young people and make a lasting difference in communities across Northern Ireland.
This year's national awards ceremony took place at Belfast City Hall, with Northern Ireland football legends Steven Davis, Rachel Furness and Pat Jennings among the special guests celebrating the achievements of the winners and finalists.
Nine awards were presented on the night, recognising excellence in coaching, volunteering, inclusivity, community engagement and club development.
Among the winners were Wellington Rec Youth FC, named Club of the Year, and Jessica Bell of Antrim Town Women and Girls FC, who received the Wes Gregg Coach of the Year award.
Jonathan McClelland of Berlin Swifts and Swiftettes FC was also recognised for his dedication to the local game, winning the publicly voted People's Award for Outstanding Contribution to Grassroots Football.
Celebrating the people behind grassroots football
Former Northern Ireland captain and record appearance holder Steven Davis paid tribute to the volunteers and clubs who continue to make a difference throughout the country.
Reflecting on the impact grassroots football had on his own career, Davis said: “The important work being carried out by McDonald’s and the Irish FA ensures that the game continues to thrive at every level, and that all young people in Northern Ireland, regardless of their background or ability, have the opportunity to play football.
“The dedication and time that volunteers give every week across the season is amazing and without them, grassroots football simply wouldn’t exist. Congratulations to everyone here this evening.”
McDonald’s Fun Football Ambassador Pat Jennings, who has supported the programme for almost two decades, also praised the award winners and nominees.
He said: “Having been a Fun Football Ambassador for almost twenty years now, I have witnessed first-hand the significant impact that McDonald’s Fun Football has had, and continues to have, on the lives of young people in Northern Ireland.
“In the time I have spent as an ambassador, I have loved travelling across Northern Ireland meeting the volunteers who make it happen for the kids. It’s taken me right back to where football started for me.
“I have also seen the support that the McDonald’s Franchisees across Northern Ireland have provided to local grassroots football clubs, by providing kits and equipment or by hosting community events. It’s great to see.”
Northern Ireland's record goalscorer Rachel Furness, attending the awards for the first time, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy football.
She said: “These awards are a fantastic initiative by McDonald’s and the Irish FA, recognising the people who invest so much in the game at a local level.
“I think it’s crucial that every girl and boy, no matter their background or ability, has the opportunity to play football and the Fun Football programme provides a safe and inclusive space for kids up and down the country to enjoy the game we all love.”
McDonald’s Franchisee Paul Connan added: “At McDonald’s, we are proud to support the people and clubs that bring communities together through football. Their time, care and enthusiasm gives young people opportunities and skills that reach far beyond the pitch.
“These awards are a chance to thank the volunteers and clubs who make grassroots football thrive across Northern Ireland. On behalf of McDonald’s, I’d like to congratulate all the winners.”
Meet the 2026 award winners
Club of the Year
Winner: Wellington Rec Youth FC
This award celebrates clubs that go above and beyond to provide high-quality football opportunities for children and adults, recognising their commitment to developing the game and making a positive impact in their communities.
Football Restaurant of the Year
Winner: McDonald’s Newtownards
This award recognises a McDonald’s restaurant in Northern Ireland that has demonstrated outstanding support for its local grassroots football community.
Led by Franchisee Des Lamph, Supervisor Andrea Morrison and Business Manager Chris Wilkin, McDonald’s Newtownards has developed strong links with Ards Rangers Inclusion, helping to champion inclusive football opportunities in the local community.
Young Volunteer of the Year
Winner: Scarlett Rose Alford (Scrabo Academy FC)
Recognising the contribution of young people aged 14 to 24, this award celebrates those who dedicate their time and energy to supporting grassroots football and creating opportunities for others to participate in the game.
Futsal Award
Winner: Josh Lowry (Sparta Belfast Futsal Club)
The Futsal Award recognises an individual or club that has championed the development of futsal, helping to introduce the game to new audiences and create opportunities within their community.
Best Use of Social Media
Winner: Marty Lish (Belfast Ravens)
Introduced for the first time in 2026, this award celebrates the creative use of digital platforms to engage communities, recognise volunteers and raise the profile of grassroots football clubs both on and off the pitch.
Football for All Award
Winner: Danny Gallagher (Sion Swifts Sonics)
This award recognises an individual or club that has placed inclusivity at the heart of its work, demonstrating an outstanding commitment to making football accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Volunteer of the Year
Winner: Gary Pitman (Abbey Villa FC)
Celebrating the dedication of grassroots football volunteers, this award recognises individuals who give countless hours of their time to support their clubs, develop the local game and make a positive difference in their communities.
Wes Gregg Coach of the Year
Winner: Jessica Bell (Antrim Town Women and Girls FC)
Presented in memory of highly respected football coach and Irish FA colleague Wes Gregg, this award recognises a qualified grassroots coach or Fun Football provider who inspires players to start, stay and succeed in football.
It celebrates coaches who deliver high-quality, engaging sessions and adapt their approach to support the development and enjoyment of their players.
People's Award for Outstanding Contribution to Grassroots Football
Winner: Jonathan McClelland (Berlin Swifts and Swiftettes FC)
Runners-up: Tom McKenna (Crewe United FC) and Shaun Marshall (Lurgan Celtic FC)
Decided by public vote, the People's Award celebrates an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to grassroots football in their local community and beyond.
One of the highlights of the annual awards, the category gives the football community an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people whose dedication makes a lasting difference to the game.
