Club: Cooley Kickhams GFC
County: Louth
Volunteer Roles: Inclusion, Club PRO, Committee Member and Fundraising

Making Sport a Place Where Everyone Belongs

At Cooley Kickhams in County Louth, Laura Traynor is helping ensure that the opportunity to enjoy sport extends to every child, regardless of ability.

At 26, Laura combines her own playing commitments with an big contribution to the club off the field, particularly through her involvement in the development of its All Stars programme.

A founding member and driving force behind the initiative, Laura has helped establish inclusive Saturday morning sessions that have been running since 2021, creating opportunities for children of different abilities to participate, make friends and experience the enjoyment of belonging to a sporting community.

The programme has also become an important source of connection for parents and families, providing a welcoming and supportive environment in which everyone has a place.

Laura’s contribution extends well beyond the All Stars sessions. As Club PRO and a committee member, she supports communications, fundraising and social events, while actively encouraging other young people to become involved in volunteering.

Her nomination highlights not only the time she gives but also the compassion and leadership she brings to her work.

Inclusion is one of the most important challenges facing community sport, and volunteers such as Laura demonstrate how a club can become a place of belonging for families who might otherwise find opportunities to participate limited.

Her ability to balance playing, volunteering and leadership responsibilities makes her an important role model for the next generation.

Laura Traynor is a deserving member of the inaugural ClubSpot Sport for Business 30 Under 30 Young Volunteers in Sport, recognising her commitment to creating opportunities, building friendships and making her club a place where everyone belongs.

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The ClubSpot Sport for Business 30 Under 30 Young Volunteers in Sport celebrates outstanding young volunteers making a difference in clubs and communities across Ireland.

Nominations for the 2026 listing will remain open until Friday, November 20th, 2026.

Nominations can cover the full breadth of volunteering, from coaching and officiating to administration, communications, fundraising, inclusion, safeguarding, event delivery, facilities, and the many other roles that help strengthen a club.

NOMINATE YOUR YOUNG VOLUNTEER HERE 

 

 

 

 

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