Andrew McKeeman - Dungannon Tennis Club
“Andrew, with his innate ability to inspire and elevate his players, stands out as a coach deserving of recognition. His blend of patience, unwavering support, and cultivation of the love of the game creates an unparalleled coaching experience, making him truly worthy of the nomination.”
Breda Dick - Phoenix Basketball Club
“Breda represents the true essence of a Sportmaker through her selfless and limitless determination to reach out to her community so that they can share in the joy of the sport she loves.”
Ciaran McGarrity - Down Triathlon Club
“After any training session with Ciaran, you are guaranteed to feel better about yourself. The only challenge after that is having a smile bigger than his!”
David Alonso - Omagh Futsal Club
“David creates an inclusive and professional culture within our club, driving it to grow and achieve through his expertise and passion.”
Eamon Corbett - Sacred Heart Boxing Academy
“He’s an Inspiration to everyone in the community. Eamon is always thinking of the kids to get them off the street and into boxing. He is one of the best.”
Gareth Anderson - Azlans Rugby, Ophir RFC
“Gareth’s commitment and passion have left an indelible mark on the Azlans and the inclusive rugby community. He shows a genuine interest in the lived experiences of every player.”
Gareth Mahood - Ulster Canoe Club
“His drive and passion for the sport and promoting the activities in Northern Ireland are second to none. He is involved with mentoring upcoming coaches and is regularly running intro sessions for people to come to the sport for the first time.”
Jahswill Emmanuel BEM - Multi-Ethnic Sports and Cultures NI
“Jahswill is the architect of unity, building bridges of support and empowerment that inspire youths from diverse backgrounds to realise their full athletic potential.”
Julie-Anne Cairns - Seven Towers Netball Club
“Julie-Anne is a dedicated coach who travels all over the country to support her players. She has a brilliant coaching style which encourages performance. She is very focused on getting the junior players development opportunities for playing, umpiring and coaching.”
Lisa Trainor - Banbridge Netball Club
“Lisa is a busy mum of three young girls, gives up her own time to give 25-30 ladies a night out of the house, to get exercise and to improve their mental health!”
Mark Gough - Duck Down Divers Donaghadee
“Mark is at the club 3-4 times a week at committee meetings, delivering diving sessions, delivering snorkelling classes to community groups or sailing the safety boat for divers.”
Mark McKeown - Armagh Athletic Club
“A dedicated, professional and selfless individual who goes above and beyond to cater for every person who wishes to try running regardless of ability. Mark is a beacon of positivity and a leader without even knowing it and is fully deserving of this award.”
Nigel Tohill - Ballymoney United Ladies FC
“An amazing football manager who has developed local ladies football at Ballymoney. The light of the club who has backed us from day one and wants nothing but the best for his squad of girls.”
Paddy Gallagher - IABA Community, Schools and Club Coach
“Paddy is a fabulous coach and when he demonstrates boxing techniques it is quite clear to all that they are watching a very high calibre boxer, his excellence is inspiring.”
Petrina Doyle - LGBTQ+ Basketball
“Petrina truly made a safe space for all queer people in Belfast and she works so hard to make sure we have an indoor court to play in and maintain players, and recruiting newcomers and beginners to the game.”
Robert Mooney - Cliftonville Football Club
“He is the most dedicated coach who cares about all his players. He has coached young boys who made their way into the Irish league and still praise Robert for his coaching. He believes in each player and pushes them to be the best they can be.”
