Why they won: All the winners from the Donegal Sports Star Awards profiled

The Appreciation Award winners for 2023 were Padraig Mac Aodha amd Peadar McGranaghan

Padraig Mac Aodh has been involved in football for more than 50 years and was one of the four founding members of Gweedore Utd back in 1977. He was the main driving force behind the construction and development of the current grounds at Carrickboyle in Derrybeg in the early 1980’s and is still heavily involved in the continued development of club facilities.
Padraig has overseen the growth and development of membership to over 300. From just one senior men’s team initially the club now has 13 teams between female and male.
After over five decades of loyal service Padraig is standing down as Chairman of his beloved Gweedore Utd and retiring from football

Peadar McGranaghan from Castlefin has been a stalwart of the Club since 1974. As a parent bringing his children to training and competitions, his influence saw them progress to star in juvenile, senior and masters athletics.
He also became involved in the day to day running of the club committee as well as successfully coaching juvenile athletes for events up to All Ireland Championships.
When Finn Valley AC purchased an old factory in 1978, Peadar got involved in fundraising for the club. Peader worked alongside Patsy McGonagle in the development of the women’s team that went on to win 10 National Senior titles.
To this day Peadar McGranaghan still travels nationally to athletic competitions with juvenile teams.
Now aged 84 Peader is an Honorary Life President of Finn Valley Athletic Club.