Mayo Sports Partnership win big at 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards
'Mayo Sports Partnerships Head Charlie Lambert, second from right, is presented with the Local Sports Partnership of the Year award by Clann Credo regional manager Tony Marshall alongside Mayo Sports Partnership Physical Activity for Health Officer Edel O'Malley and Mayo Sports Partnership Community Sports Development Project Worker Deirdre Donnelly during the Irish Sport Industry Awards 2025 at College Green Hotel last night in Dublin. Photo: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile'
The Federation of Irish Sport proudly hosted the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards last night for the 8th annual gathering, recognising outstanding achievements across the Irish sport sector. Held in Dublin and attended by industry leaders, sponsors, and government representatives, the ceremony celebrated innovation, leadership, and excellence in sport on and off the field.
The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, who commended the shortlisted finalists, winners and all those working in sporting organisations for their vital role in shaping Ireland’s sporting future.
One of the night’s special moments was the presentation of the Outstanding Achievement for Contribution to Irish Sport Award to Matt English, who recently stepped down after 17 transformative years as CEO of Special Olympics Ireland. His leadership has impacted thousands of athletes and families across the country, helping to create a more inclusive sporting landscape.
Other individuals honoured included Neasa Russell, who received the KPMG Women in Sport Award for her visionary leadership within Paralympics Ireland and wider advocacy for gender equity in sport. Meanwhile, Hazel Nolan, Senior News & Sports Broadcaster at FM104, was honoured with the Jimmy Magee Sports Coverage of the Year Award, recognising her decades-long dedication to spotlighting Irish sport across multiple platforms.
The coveted title of National Governing Body of the Year went to Badminton Ireland.
Emerging from the challenges of the pandemic, Badminton Ireland’s 2022-2028 strategic plan has driven remarkable growth and inclusivity, with membership rising to over 17,300— including 23% from ethnic minorities or first-generation Irish and affiliated clubs increasing to 420.
Mayo Sports Partnership was awarded the Local Sports Partnership of the Year, which have delivered measurable health outcomes, fostered community engagement, and strengthened links between sport and healthcare through a shift toward preventative, community-based physical activity.
