FOUR familiar faces in GAA circles, two well-known boxing men, and advocates for badminton, mountaineering, and soccer comprise the nine Ulster volunteers honoured by the Federation of Irish Sport.
In all, 35 people have been recognised as winners for 2024, with one from each county plus three extra for Dublin, all earning a E200 donation for their respective club.
The recipients will be presented with their award at a special evening at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown, Dublin, on February 28.
The winners with GAA connections are Kenny Curran of Loughmacrory Handball Club in Tyrone, Alan Nash of Na Piarsaigh Doire Trasna GAA/LGFA in Derry, Phil Flanagan of Fermanagh club Tempo Maguires, and Francis Reynolds of Sarsfields in Armagh.
The boxing champions are Paddy Branney, still going strong at 84 with Belfast Star Boxing Club, and Brian McKeown of Cavan Boxing Club.
There are two female volunteers honoured from Ulster: Audrey Magee of Raphoe Badminton Club in Donegal and Alwynne Shannon, who promotes mountaineering in Down with The Feel Good Factor.
Kenny Curran has been a driving force in the development of women’s handball in Tyrone, coaching players to high international standards. His involvement in the club extends to all aspects, from playing and coaching to administration. Under Kenny’s guidance, the club’s membership has trebled in the past five years, and he continues to be a positive influence on the youth of the club.
Beyond his sporting contributions, Kenny is a trusted mentor, offering support to young people, particularly those struggling with mental health. His dedication to building a strong and supportive community within the club makes him an invaluable volunteer.
Phil Flanagan’s impact on Tempo Maguires GAA club and the surrounding community has been nothing short of extraordinary. His dedication has propelled the club to new heights while benefiting all age groups in the area.
Among his many initiatives are the development of a new pitch with an illuminated walkway, mental health workshops for younger members, and the introduction of handball and rounders to the club.
Phil has also led sustainability initiatives and reopened the local community centre after it was closed for five years. From organising an Irish language football blitz to day trips for older members, Phil’s vision and commitment have positively transformed lives in the community.
Francis Reynolds embodies the true spirit of volunteerism. His selfless commitment to Sarsfield GAC has made an extraordinary impact on both his club and the wider community. While Francis is known for helping players hone their football skills, it’s his ability to nurture confidence, inspire teamwork, and create a welcoming environment that sets him apart.
Parents often praise Francis for his unique blend of encouragement and discipline, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. His dedication is unmatched—Francis is always the first to volunteer, from marking the pitch and greeting visiting teams to managing car park logistics on match days. His energy, kindness, and leadership make him the very heartbeat of the club.
Alan Nash has been a cornerstone of his club Na Piarsaigh Doire Trasna and community for more than 25 years, dedicating his time, expertise, and leadership to the growth of Gaelic games.
As a founding member, Alan’s tireless efforts and passion have shaped the club’s ethos, inspiring players and volunteers alike. His work as Ladies Football Development Officer has been truly transformational, tripling female participation and helping teams grow to over 45 members.
Alan coaches underage girls’ football, nurturing young talent, and launched the successful “Mothers and Others” initiative, which provides an inclusive space for women in the community to stay active and engaged in sport.
In addition to coaching, Alan is a highly respected referee for all Gaelic games codes, officiating at club, provincial, and national levels. He volunteers daily, contributing to fundraising, event organisation, and the smooth running of club operations.
Alan plays a key role in player recognition nights and other community events, including the local Christmas light switch-on, while also representing the club at the LGFA County Board. Alan embodies the true spirit of volunteerism. His dedication, commitment to inclusivity, and unwavering support for the club and community have left a lasting legacy.
Paddy Joe Branney, aged 84, has been the heart and soul of Belfast’s Star Boxing Club for more than six decades. Rain or shine, he’s there every night, opening the club’s doors and locking up at the end of the evening. Having held every role imaginable at the club, Paddy Joe’s energy and passion remain as strong as ever. He continues to inspire young and old alike, embodying everything that’s great about volunteerism.
Through some of Belfast’s most challenging times, Paddy Joe was a steady, positive force in the community. He’s helped countless young people rebuild their lives through boxing.
Beyond his club commitments, Paddy Joe also volunteers with a local cancer charity, generously giving his time to take people – many younger than himself – shopping. His impact stretches far beyond the boxing ring, touching the lives of many throughout the community.
Star Boxing Club’s recent successes, including Ulster, All-Ireland, and even European titles, are a testament to the foundation built by passionate leaders like Paddy Joe.
For 40 years, Brian McKeown has been a pillar of Cavan Boxing Club. He transformed the club from humble beginnings into a powerhouse, nurturing champions at both national and international levels, including Olympic medallists.
But Brian’s impact goes beyond the boxing ring. His unwavering support and guidance for club members extends to employment, finance, and life skills, helping to create positive change within the community. His resilience and leadership have guided the club through challenges and secured its continued success, inspiring generations of boxers.
A true outdoor enthusiast, Alwynne Shannon has been instrumental in building the hillwalking programme for her women-only The Feel Good Factor Hillwalking, Climbing, and Mountain Biking Club. As a mountain rescue volunteer, Alwynne has shared her skills to help club members become safer and more confident on the hills.
She leads weekly Friday hill walks and coordinates club trips to locations such as Donegal and Wicklow, making the mountains more accessible and enjoyable for women. Alwynne’s passion has transformed countless lives, empowering women to develop their skills and broaden their horizons through the great outdoors.
For more than 30 years, Audrey Magee has been a cornerstone of her local badminton club Raphoe Badminton Club. At 75 years old, she remains a dedicated volunteer, managing junior club sign-in and out every Monday and Friday and coordinating club schedules and hall usage. Her unparalleled commitment ensures the smooth running of the club’s activities.
Audrey is also a proud mother to three international players, including Olympian Chloe Magee, and grandmother to Rachael Darragh, who represented Ireland at the Paris Olympics. Despite these high level sporting connections, her true passion lies in grassroots badminton.
A strong advocate for women in sport, Audrey helped establish a women’s sports programme three years ago, encouraging mothers and busy women to take time for themselves—a programme that continues to thrive weekly. Audrey’s unparalleled dedication ensures her club continues to thrive as a hub of community activity.
Pat McCabe has been the backbone of Clones Town FC for over 15 years. Starting as an underage coach, Pat’s role has grown immensely—so much so that he is affectionately known as ‘Mr Clones Town FC’.
Over the years, he has coached every boys team from U8s to U18s, dedicating countless hours to nurturing young talent and instilling a love of the game. Pat’s contributions go far beyond coaching. He has served on the club’s committee multiple times, holding various roles and offering unwavering support wherever needed.
In recent years, Pat has focused on developing the girls’ side of the club, playing a key role in its growth and success. He also helped lead the club’s Football For All initiative, culminating in a fun blitz that brought together two schools with ASD units for a memorable day of sport and inclusion.
Whether acting as MC for fundraisers, lining pitches, or washing kits, Pat is involved in every aspect of the club. His selfless dedication, energy, and passion have made an indelible mark on Clones Town FC and the wider community.
