The Federation of Irish Sport has announced an expansion of its annual Volunteers in Sport Awards, introducing a new national honour recognising the clubs and community organisations that underpin Irish sport.
The Club/Community Sport Organisation Award, sponsored by Clann Credo – Community Loan Finance, will debut as part of the 2025 programme.
The new category is designed to celebrate the exceptional volunteer-led sports clubs, community groups and organisations that drive participation, inclusion and well-being in towns and villages across Ireland. It will highlight excellence in leadership, innovation and community impact, acknowledging those who create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in sport and physical activity.
Hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport, in partnership with the Sport Ireland network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships, the Volunteers in Sport Awards honour outstanding individuals from every county on the island of Ireland. The addition of the new Club/Community category places a fresh spotlight on the organisations that operate entirely through volunteer commitment and have shown remarkable dedication to fostering belonging and participation within their communities.
Clann Credo, which provides social finance to sports clubs and community groups nationwide, said the award aligns strongly with its mission.
“Clann Credo is proud to sponsor the Club/Community Sport Award as part of the Volunteers in Sport Awards. Every day we meet volunteers who are transforming their communities with energy and determination,” said Tony Marshall, Regional Manager at Clann Credo and a member of the adjudication panel. “This award recognises that commitment and celebrates the positive impact volunteers create right across the country.”
“We are delighted to have the support of Clann Credo for this new national honour championing the volunteer-led clubs that strengthen communities through sport and physical activity,” added Mary O’Connor, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport.
“This is a welcome addition to the 32 individual county recipients and marks an exciting expansion of the awards for 2025.”
The scale of volunteerism in Irish sport is vast, with over 460,000 people giving their time each week. More than 250,000 volunteer coaches contribute an estimated one million hours weekly, delivering programming that enables participation, skill development and social connection. Collectively, their efforts are valued at €1.5 billion to the Irish economy each year.
Nominations for the 2025 Volunteers in Sport Awards — including the new Club/Community Sport Organisation Award — are now open and will remain so until Monday,15th December 2025.
The awards ceremony will take place on 26 February 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown, Dublin.
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