Inspiring Laois camogie All-Ireland coaching team wins Sports award at Laois Community & Voluntary Awards #LaoisAwards25

The Management Team that guided the Laois junior camogie team to All-Ireland glory has triumphed again by winning of the Sport at the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards 2025.

The Sports award recognises groups and schools that focus on physical health, increasing the number of people participating in sports, particularly those with a low participation rate.

The Award organisers outlined why the Laois Camogie Junior Management Team were worthy winners of Sports Award which was presented at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise.

"By winning this award, Laois Camogie has set a new standard for achievement and collaboration.

"Laois Camogie has achieved a historic milestone in 2025, claiming victories in the National League Final, Leinster Championship Final, and All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Final, just one year after losing all three by a single point. Behind this triumph stands a remarkable management team whose dedication and volunteer spirit have transformed the sport in the county.

"In a county with only ten camogie clubs, these lifelong supporters have given countless hours to strategic planning, player development, and match-day preparation. Their commitment goes far beyond the pitch, they have built a culture of resilience, unity, and belief, inspiring players and communities alike.

"Through initiatives such as summer camps and the newly launched Banlaoch Camogie Academy, they are creating pathways for young girls to stay active, develop skills, and dream big. Funded through limited sponsorship, grants, and fundraising, this team exemplifies volunteerism at its finest, balancing roles as mentors, motivators, and leaders without expectation of reward.

"Their success has lifted the spirit of Laois, strengthened community pride, and set a new standard for excellence. More than trophies, they have delivered a legacy that will benefit generations to come," concluded the citation.

Paul Clabby of Roscommon Public Participation Network congratulated the team that coached Laois to the junior championship win in Croke Park in August.

"It's inspiring to witness the passion and resilience demonstrated by this management team. Their unwavering hard work, dedication, and determination truly paid off, culminating in well-deserved success in 2025," said the judge.

Paul also extended his congratulations to every team member whose contributions made this achievement possible and raised the flag for female participation in sports in Laois.

The winners received a Galway Crystal Plate and prize money of €500. The runner-up in this category, the
VIP Hub, received €250 in prize money. 

John Oxley, Chairperson Laois PPN, presented both the runners-up and winners ’ prizes in this category.

This award is sponsored by Laois Sports Partnership Company which supports and invests in clubs and communities to create an environment that improves activity, health and wellbeing for all the people of Laois.

The runner-up in this category, the VIP Hub, received €250 in prize money. 

The other nominees in this category were:

• Arles Kileen GAA
• Stradbally GAA – Lads & Dads
• Fit4Life – St. Abban’s AC
• Trilogy Triathlon Club
• Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool
  

The award was presented at a gala reception in the Midlands Park Hotel on Friday, November 21.

This is the 16th year of the awards, which were hosted by Laois County Council in association with Laois Public Participation Network and sponsored by People First Credit Union, Laois Sports Partnership, Laois Partnership and Laois Volunteer Centre.