Translink Ulster GAA Coach of the Year Award now open

Down GAA football manager Conor Laverty joined Ulster GAA and Translink representatives at Páirc Esler, Newry, recently to officially launch the latest Coach of the Year Award.

Now in its fifth year, the initiative recognises the work of volunteer club coaches and managers across the province, acknowledging the outstanding contribution they make to Gaelic games and local communities here. The award is free to enter and club coaches from all codes and levels in Ulster are eligible.

Players, parents, committee members and supporters have until Sunday 16th February to put forward their entry. Following these nominations, a panel of experts including Conor Laverty, Derry All-Ireland winner and Ulster GAA coach, Tony Scullion, and Irish News sportswriter, Neil Loughran, will select one finalist from each county to go forward to a public vote.

The overall winner will be announced next month and will receive specially commissioned O’Neill’s Sportswear for themselves, and free coach travel for their team, courtesy of Translink.

Encouraging everyone to get nominating, Translink Service Delivery Manager, Dermot McGirr, said:

“Translink Coach of the Year recognises the time and effort volunteer coaches give to their local clubs and the positive impact this has on their communities.

“Each year we receive thousands of nominations and votes, and our involvement in this initiative puts a spotlight on the great work so many volunteer coaches deliver week in, week out. This reflects our commitment to ensuring everyone is Better Connected through our services and dedicated staff across the network and we’re looking forward to highlighting and celebrating even more great individuals through this year’s competition.”

Ulster GAA Vice Chairperson Michael Geoghegan added:

“Ulster GAA is delighted to partner with Translink again for the Coach of the Year award.

“This is an opportunity to recognise the fantastic work volunteer coaches do across the province, across all codes and grades.

“I encourage club members and players to have their say by nominating someone who they believe made an outstanding contribution to their club in the last season.”

To nominate a coach for this award, ulster.gaa.ie/translinkcoachoftheyear2023

Nominations close 11.59pm Sunday 18th February 2024.