Local community champions recognised at Grassroots Football Awards
The regional winners of the McDonald's Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards were announced at The Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park, with Sion Swifts and Strabane Athletic members among the recipients of the prestigious awards.
MEMBERS of Sion Swifts and Strabane Athletic have been announced among the regional winners of this year's McDonald's Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards.
The annual McDonald's Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards, which celebrate 26 years in Northern Ireland this year, recognise the outstanding work and commitment of football clubs and volunteers who give up their time and make a lasting impact on young people and communities across Northern Ireland.
The national awards ceremony will take place this month at Belfast City Hall.
The regional awards event was hosted recently at The Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park, where Northern Ireland legend and Fun Football ambassador Pat Jennings presented the winners with their trophies.
Danny Gallagher, of Sion Swifts Sonics, was a regional winner of the 'Football for All' Award for his involvement with the inclusive football programme, while Strabane Athletic's Ellie-Jay McMenamin was a regional winner of the 'Best Use of Social Media' accolade.
Other regional winner titles were awarded in the following categories: 'Club of the Year', 'Volunteer of the Year', 'Young Volunteer of the Year', 'Futsal Award', 'Wes Gregg Coach of the Year' and 'The People's Award for Outstanding Contribution to Grassroots Football'.
For the first time ever, the 'Best Use of Social Media' award will also have a national winner crowned this year.
At the event, Pat Jennings said: "Grassroots football is built by people who turn up week after week, creating places where young people can enjoy the game, grow in confidence and feel part of a team.
"It has been a privilege to see the difference McDonald's Fun Football has made for children and families across Northern Ireland.
"These awards show exactly why the grassroots game matters so much.
"Every winner recognised has helped make football more welcoming, accessible and enjoyable in their community.
"They should be extremely proud of what they have achieved."
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 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.
"Congratulations to all the winners."