Raphoe's Audrey Magee honoured as Donegal's Volunteers in Sport Award winner

The Federation of Irish Sport has announced that Audrey Magee has been named County Donegal’s 2024 recipient of the Volunteers in Sport Awards.

Audrey will be honoured at a special awards ceremony on Friday, February 28, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, alongside a volunteer from every county in Ireland - and four from Dublin - in recognition of their dedication and passion for their local club. The prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award, which highlights one individual’s extraordinary contribution to Irish sport will be revealed on the day.

For over 30 years, Audrey Magee has been a cornerstone of her local badminton club Raphoe Badminton Club.

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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.

Throughout November and December 2024, the Federation of Irish Sport called on the public, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships and Governing Bodies to nominate volunteers whose contributions have made a meaningful difference. This year’s awards saw a record number of nominations from over 53 sporting disciplines, reflecting the incredible diversity of volunteering in Ireland.

Every week, 460,000 volunteers dedicate their time to support 1.47 million club members around the country to keep them engaged and active, making a social and economic contribution valued at €1.5 billion annually. These volunteers are the backbone of Irish sport, keeping communities active, healthy, and connected.