Young referee praised for her volunteering effort

Ulster GAA in association with Translink has unearthed an outstanding young GAA volunteer from Killeavy GAA, Co Armagh.  24 year old Cliodhna McAteer has been awarded the Translink Young GAA Volunteer of the Month Award for August 2017, following a nomination from her club which demonstrated her outstanding contribution to Killeavy GAA.

Cliodhna has been described as ‘an all-round club volunteer’, giving her time freely as a referee, U12 coach and club activist.

Presenting Cliodhna with her award, Ulster GAA PRO Michael Geoghegan said, “We were really struck by Cliodhna McAteer’s commitment to her club Killeavy and the impact she is making on the wider club community.  It is inspiring to see a young woman involved in doing such good work in her GAA club as a referee, underage coach and club volunteer.  I am delighted to recognise Cliodhna’s volunteering effort and to highlight the huge impact young GAA volunteers are making in their communities.  Once again we had an impressive set of nominations for this award from clubs right across Ulster, showcasing the impact of youth volunteering in the GAA.”

Greg McLaughlin, Service Delivery Manager, Translink said, “On behalf of Translink, I’d like to congratulate Cliodhna on winning this award, which is presented in recognition of her volunteering efforts during the month of August. The Volunteer of the Month initiative recognises the time, talent and commitment young people give to the communities we serve and each month we continue to be very impressed with the standard of nominations. Cliodhna has made a hugely positive impact on the Killeavy community and stood out as a great ambassador for young people across the province, making her a very worthy winner of the August award.”

Bernie McMahon, who is Killeavy’s GoldMark co-ordinator is responsible for working closely with the club’s young volunteers ensuring they receive support in their roles and are recognised for their efforts.  Describing Cliodhna’s  contribution to Killeavy she said, “In August alone, Cliodhna refereed at an All Ireland Poc-Fada and Ulster Camogie Blitz.   In addition to her coaching role, she agreed to help with summer camp.  During camp, Cliodhna took lead role to co-ordinate coaches, registration, equipment, young volunteers and payments, whilst coaching the hurling/camogie station!  She is always willing to volunteer and always gives of her best!  Cliodhna is valued by our management committee and club members and received very positive feedback this month from all quarters.

“Cliodhna volunteered a massive 86hrs in August.  Cliodhna loves and lives for her club and sport and has gained valuable experience in her volunteering role that will benefit her in her future career.”