Winners and sponsors at the annual Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards
The best in local sport was celebrated at the annual Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards last night, Thursday 13 March.
Shortlisted athletes, teams, coaches and others from across the Borough’s sporting community gathered at The Galgorm Resort & Spa, Ballymena, to contend the awards across eight categories.
Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the annual event recognises outstanding achievements and service in sport locally and shines a light on MEA’S committed sports people and volunteers who dedicate themselves day and daily to being the best they can be.
Hall of Fame status for Steven Davis, pictured with Deputy Mayor Cllr Bréanainn Lyness and Claire McCollum
Sportsperson of the Year winner Adam Courtney
Hosted by TV presenter Claire McCollum, the awards were sponsored by Ryobi; Pollock Lifts; Wilson's of Rathkenny; Sign Time; Stirling Trophies; McCadden; P&O Ferries; Curran Court Hotel; Balon Sportswear; Larne Credit Union.
The full list of winners is:
Junior Sportsperson of the Year
Skye-Leigh Haighton
lSkye-Leigh Haighton with Martin Wilson from Larne Credit Union
School Sporting Performance
Ballymena Cúhulainns (Dunclug College & St Patrick’s College)
Ballymena Cúhulainns (Dunclug College & St Patrick’s College) with Jill Kennedy from Ryobi Aluminium
Sportsperson/Team with a Disability
Claire Taggart
Terry Conroy of DSNI accepting on behalf of Claire Taggart with Damien McAllister from Pollock Lifts
Manager/Coach of the Year
Barry Clarke
Barry Clarke with John Wilson of Wilson’s of Rathkenny
Community Participation
The Dojo
The Dojo team with Brian McRandal of Curran Court Hotel
Team of the Year
Larne FC
Representatives from Larne FC with Neil Ramsden of McCadden
Services to Sport
Davy Ross
Davy Ross with Ruairi O’Boyle of Sign Time
Sportsperson of the Year
Adam Courtney
Adam Courtney with Dawn Galloway of Striling Trophies
Bursaries were awarded to Josh McClune and Hollie Murdock. This is now the fifth year of sponsorship from Balon Bespoke Sport and Leisurewear.
Each worthy recipient receives £250 worth of leisurewear.
Josh McClune & Hollie Murdock with Kyle McClure of Balon
It was also a very special night for Ballymena born footballer and guest of honour Steven Davis who was awarded Hall of Fame status thanks to his amazing contributions to football both locally and internationally.
Ballymena born footballer and guest of honour Steven Davis
Attending the event was Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Bréanainn Lyness, who commended the Borough’s players, athletes, coaches, managers, volunteers and administrators for their hard work, dedication and determination.
He said:
“I want to congratulate all the nominees this year, your relentless hard work, perseverance, and commitment is an inspiration and embodies the true spirit of excellence.
“The strength of our community lies not only in our athletes but also in the unwavering support provided by coaches, managers, and volunteers. Their love of sport and dedication behind the scenes ensures the success of our sports programs and the realisation of our athletes' full potential.
“And congratulations to the winners - your outstanding performances and achievements have set a new benchmark for success. You have shown what is possible with determination, skill and a relentless pursuit of greatness. We celebrate your success and look forward to seeing what you will accomplish in the future.
P&O Ferries Charity raffle winner with Julie Allen of P&O Ferries
“I would also like to say a special thank you to Steven Davis for attending tonight’s awards ceremony - we are so very proud of all your achievements and no doubt you will continue to share your passion and knowledge for football both locally and internationally for many years to come.”