GAVIN LONGERAN HONOURED AS COUNTY WATERFORD’S 2024 RECIPIENT OF THE VOLUNTEERS IN SPORT AWARDS
- 35 volunteers to be honoured, €200 donation to each recipient’s local club
- Every week, 460,000 volunteers dedicate their time to support 1.47 million club members
- Economic contribution of volunteers in sport valued at €1.5 billion annually
The Federation of Irish Sport is proud to announce that Gavin Lonergan has been named County Waterford’s 2024 recipient of the Volunteers in Sport Awards. Gavin will be honoured at a special awards ceremony on Friday, 28th February 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, alongside a volunteer from every county in Ireland (four in Dublin) in recognition of their dedication and passion for their local club.
Breaking Barriers with Little Vikings
Gavin Lonergan’s commitment to Little Vikings, a club that introduces children with intellectual disabilities to a variety of sports, has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for children in Waterford. Gavin, along with his wife Karen, became involved as Head Coach and a volunteer, despite having no direct links to anyone with special needs. His passion for helping these children has led to the creation of Deise Stars, a new program for children aged 11 to 14.
Gavin’s dedication extends to fundraising, where he has secured sponsorships and support from local businesses. His care, kindness, and love for the children have made a lasting impact on both the club and the families involved.
Honouring Volunteers Who Keep Irish Sport Thriving
Throughout November and December 2024, the Federation of Irish Sport called on the public, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships and Governing Bodies to nominate volunteers whose contributions have made a meaningful difference. This year’s awards saw a record number of nominations from over 53 sporting disciplines, reflecting the incredible diversity of volunteering in Ireland.
Every week, 460,000 volunteers dedicate their time to support 1.47 million club members around the country to keep them engaged and active, making a social and economic contribution valued at €1.5 billion annually. These volunteers are the backbone of Irish sport, keeping communities active, healthy, and connected.
Speaking about the importance of the awards, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport, Mary O’Connor said: “The Federation of Irish Sport is proud to celebrate our volunteers in sport and to pay tribute to these incredible individuals who give their time and energy to enrich Irish sport and strengthen communities. These awards are a vital nationwide recognition of the scale of volunteering that is required every week to support 1.47 million club members around the country.”
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 National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships and member of the judging panel, Graham Russell said: “The Volunteers in Sport Awards is a unique opportunity for the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships each year to collectively celebrate the terrific work being done in every county in Ireland to drive greater and more inclusive participation in sport and physical activity. The National Network of Local Sports Partnerships work closely with volunteers in the community and see the impact they have at grass roots level and in breaking down boundaries to participation. We are proud to champion the unsung heroes of sport.”
CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR A FULL LIST OF 2024 VOLUNTEERS IN SPORT AWARDS COUNTY RECIPIENTS
Article Modified: February 18, 2025 11:24 am
