Council Honours Sporting Excellence at the NMD Sports Awards

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA), proudly welcomed over 200 guests to the Canal Court Hotel, Newry on Friday 14 March for the NMD Sports Awards.

This special event recognises the outstanding achievements of athletes, teams and individuals who have made a significant impact on sport across the district in 2024. It also celebrates the dedication of coaches, volunteers and mentors who play a vital role in supporting our local sports community and promoting an active, healthy lifestyle in the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area.

Awards were presented across both Junior and Senior categories, including Team of the Year, Sports Volunteer of the Year, Club Coach of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year. Additional awards included Sportsperson/Team of the Year with a Disability and the Lifetime Services to Sport award.  With countless outstanding sporting achievements, the competition for this year's award categories was exceptionally strong.

The awards ceremony was hosted by renowned sports presenter Thomas Niblock. Special Guest and former Northern Ireland international soccer legend Gerry Armstrong took part in an engaging Q&A session, where he shared insights from his remarkable career and experiences in the world of sport.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne, said, "This event allows us to recognise the incredible achievements of our athletes while also paying tribute to the dedicated coaches and volunteers who are at the heart of our clubs and communities. The standard of entries was outstanding, and everyone shortlisted should be extremely proud.

"The Council is delighted to support our sporting community, promoting physical activity at all levels - from grassroots participation to high-performance competition. The success of our local sports stars is truly inspiring and we remain committed to creating opportunities for all residents to lead active and healthy lives."

SANDSA Chairperson, Oonagh Murray, added, "It is an honour to be part of these awards and to celebrate those who are truly committed to sport in our district. Each nominee has demonstrated remarkable dedication, and their achievements deserve to be recognised. We wish them continued success as they inspire others through their passion and commitment."

The winners of this year’s NMD Sports Awards 2024 in association with SANDSA are;

• Junior Club Coach of the Year 2024: Joint winners Jake Madine from Ballynahinch Olympic Football Club and Maria Cassidy from Newry Rowing Club
• Senior Club Coach of the Year 2024: Martin McCusker - Camlough Amateur Boxing Club
• Junior Club Team of the Year 2024: Newry Gymnastics Club
• Senior Team of the Year 2024: Armagh Senior GAA Team
• Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2024: Daniel Smyth - Swimming
• Senior Sportsperson of the Year 2024: Charlie Smyth - Gaelic/ NFL
• Junior Volunteer of the Year 2024: Mia Patterson - Damolly Football Club
• Senior Volunteer of the Year 2024: Paul Moore - Downpatrick Youth Football League
• Sportsperson / Team of the Year with a Disability 2024: Nathan McCabe - Wheelchair Basketball
• Lifetime Services to Sport: Oonagh Murray