Congratulations to Paddy Fitzgerald of Knockavilla Donaskeigh Kickhams GAA Club who was selected by The Federation of Irish Sport as the Tipperary recipient of the Volunteer in Sport Award for 2024.
Picture 1 shows Paddy Fitzgerald (Tipperary award winner) second from right receiving his award from left Clare McGrath Federation of Irish Sport Chairperson, second from left Roddy Guiney Chair of the judging panel and on right Graham Russell, Louth Sports Partnership and Louth County Council Head of Sport, Federation of Irish Sport board member and member of the Awards Judging Panel
Picture 2 shows Paddy Fitzgerald (Tipperary award winner), with from left John Butler, second from right Valerie Connolly Sports Coordinator with Tipperary Sports Partnership, and on right Tommy Landers during the Federation of Irish Sport Volunteers in Sport Awards at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown, Dublin.
Picture 3 shows Paddy being interviewed by MC for the event Gráinne McElwain.
Picture 4 shows Award Winner Paddy with his award.
The Federation of Irish Sport celebrated 35 recipients of the 2024 Volunteers in Sport Awards, recognising one individual from every county in Ireland (four in Dublin) for their exceptional commitment to enabling sport and physical activity thrive in their local sports club and communities. Present at the awards to pay special tribute to the volunteers was Minister Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform who gave the keynote address.
Tipperary Sports Partnership were delighted to support this event with the National Network of Local Sport Partnerships.
Speaking at the awards, Minister Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform commented: “The Volunteer in Sport Awards are always one of the highlights in the sporting calendar. It is a pleasure to once again represent the Government as we celebrate the contributions and achievements of our incredible volunteers who sacrifice time, effort and energy so that we can all enjoy sport at local, national and international level. Volunteers are the backbone of Irish sport at all levels and it is important they are formally recognised and encouraged so they continue to drive interest, passion and participation in sports in our communities. I congratulate all those honoured on the day and thank them for their contribution to our society.”
Federation of Irish Sport CEO Mary O’Connor stated: “The Federation of Irish Sport is proud to honour the 2024 Volunteers in Sport Award recipients, recognising the incredible individuals whose dedication sustains grassroots participation and strengthens communities. Volunteers are the backbone of Irish sport, enabling 1.47 million club members to engage in sport and physical activity. These awards are a vital tribute to their invaluable contribution.”
Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of Irish sport, driving participation across all disciplines. Sport Ireland research reveals unprecedented levels of engagement, with nearly two million adults participating in sport weekly. That’s a real testament to the tireless efforts of volunteers. They don't merely contribute – they transform aspirations into achievements, making sport accessible and enjoyable for all. We all owe them a debt of gratitude and we’re happy to play our part in recognising their dedication.”
Head of Louth Sports Partnership, representative of the Sport Ireland National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships and member of the judging panel, Graham Russell said: “The 2024 Volunteers in Sport Awards highlight the nationwide impact of volunteers in driving inclusive participation and strengthening communities through sport. Their dedication breaks down barriers, enriches lives, and promotes active living for all ages and abilities. The National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships is proud to celebrate these unsung heroes who make sport accessible and beneficial for so many.”
