Tipperary man deservedly bestowed with 2023 Volunteer in Sport Award

The Federation of Irish Sport announced last week the County recipients of the 2023 Volunteers in Sport Awards proudly supported by the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships. The County Tipperary Award for 2023 has been awarded to Paddy Doyle of Moyne Athletics Club.

Recognizing the depth and breadth of volunteering in sporting communities nationwide, these dedicated volunteers will be celebrated at a national awards ceremony in Dublin on Thursday 29th February 2024.

The invited special guest speaker is Minister Thomas Byrne, Minster of State with responsibility for Sport and Physical Education, which is a testament to the commitment at the government level to supporting and recognizing the vital role of volunteers in advancing sports participation and community development.

The recipient of the award for Co. Tipperary is Paddy Doyle of Moyne Athletics Club. Paddy has been an unsung hero in the club for 30 years.

An approachable, honest, and kind person, Paddy dedicates extensive time every week to supporting hundreds of young athletes and has done so for years.

Alongside being a coach, he served as club chair for over a decade, never letting anyone down. Paddy believes that the beauty of athletics is that there is something for everybody, and with Paddy by your side you are certain to grow in confidence.

The economic significance of volunteering in sport cannot be overstated, it has an estimated value of €1.5 billion annually to the Irish economy.

This figure underscores the immense social and economic benefits derived from the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the Irish sporting landscape.

In addition to the county award winners being recognised at the ceremony, anticipation will be high as one exceptional individual will be awarded with the overall Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Federation CEO Mary O’Connor commented; “We are looking forward to celebrating the exceptional contributions made by volunteers in sport from all over the country. Working behind-the-scenes volunteer's play a crucial role in fostering community engagement, promoting physical activity, and driving the success of sporting events nationwide, they are truly dedicated.

"The awards promise to be yet again another remarkable event acknowledging the time and passion of those involved in sport locally and to say, ‘thank you’ for their dedication.” he finished in the release.