Longford Leader Sports Star Awards 2026 to recognise sporting excellence
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2026 Longford Leader Sports Star Awards, in association with Longford Sports Partnership, will be presented at a gala presentation function in the Longford Arms Hotel on Friday, November 27 at 8pm
Details of the eagerly awaited 2026 Longford Leader Sports Star Awards, in association with Longford Sports Partnership, were announced during a press launch at Áras an Chontae.
The coveted awards will be presented at a gala presentation function in the Longford Arms Hotel on Friday, November 27 at 8pm, with Tony Ghee as the master of ceremonies.
Sport in County Longford scaled new heights once again in 2026. Athletes and clubs across the county have delivered outstanding performances, achieving success that far surpasses expectations for a county of its size. These accomplishments reflect not only individual excellence but also the strength of our sporting community and they deserve to be recognised.
The Longford Sports Awards honour the dedication, talent, and impact of athletes, volunteers, and community leaders who have shaped sport in Longford over the past year. These individuals are not only excelling in their fields - they are quietly inspiring others to take part, to try something new, and to belong.
The Longford Leader Sports Star Awards scheme is a continuation of the very successful Longford Sports Awards, initiated by Longford Sports Partnership in 2012.
After four consecutive years, 2012 - 2015 inclusive, there was no awards ceremony in 2016, however, they returned in impressive style in 2017, with Ganly’s as the lead sponsor in association with Longford Sports Partnership and the Longford Leader. The awards were also presented in 2018 and 2019.
As the world battled against the Covid-19 pandemic the awards didn’t take place in 2020 or 2021 but they returned with aplomb in 2022 and have been presented each year since.
Longford Leader Managing Editor Alan Walsh said, “We are looking forward with great excitement to the 2026 Longford Leader Sports Star Awards, in association with Longford Sports Partnership.”
Mr Walsh added the Longford Leader is delighted to be working alongside Longford Sports Partnership to present the 2026 Longford Sport Stars Awards. “A huge thanks to Longford Sports Partnership Coordinator Sarah Mulligan and her team for their expertise, advice and guidance in relation to the awards scheme.
“Sarah, her colleagues and the Board of Longford Sports Partnership, under the chairpersonship of Tony Headon, do an incredible amount of positive work promoting sport and physical activity to people of all ages and abilities across the county, and they deserve enormous credit.”
Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "These awards highlight the exceptional talent and commitment that exists across County Longford. Whether competing at the highest level, coaching young players or volunteering behind the scenes, each person recognised this year has made a meaningful contribution. Their achievements bring pride to their communities and set a positive example for future generations."
Chief Executive Samantha Healy added, "The Longford Sports Star Award winners represent the very best of what sport can achieve. Their success reflects hard work, determination and the support of families, clubs and volunteers. Longford County Council is proud to support initiatives that help people of all ages and abilities take part in sport and physical activity throughout the county."
Tony Headon, Longford Sports Partnership Chairperson said, "Sport has the power to bring people together, build confidence and create opportunities. The athletes and volunteers we honour this year have shown outstanding dedication in their chosen fields. We congratulate each award recipient and thank them for the positive impact they have on sporting life in County Longford.”
Sarah Mulligan, Longford Sports Partnership Coordinator, said, "The standard of nominations received this year was exceptionally high and reflects the strength of sport across County Longford. Behind every achievement is a network of coaches, volunteers, families and supporters who help make success possible. Longford Sports Partnership would like to thank all those who took the time to nominate the achievements of our talented sportspeople throughout County Longford."