Entry now open for Irish News School, Club & Volunteer awards

March 14th, 2017

The Irish News School, Club & Volunteer awards have undergone a transformation with a range of new categories set to open up new possibilities for entrants.

While the schools, clubs and volunteer sections will still backbone the awards, the Irish News understands that the GAA is an ever-changing environment and in the 15th year, have gone even further to recognise this.

Now there will be recognition in the health, coaching, underage and club engagement fields while an Irish language award, in conjunction with Foras na Gaeilge, is set to be one of the highlights of this year’s awards.

The winning clubs and schools will not only walk away with the coveted Irish News Club or School of the Year title, but also £500 from the Irish News and a £500 voucher from O’Neill’s.

Ulster GAA president Michael Hasson said: “Ulster GAA have a long term commitment to The Irish News, School, Club and Volunteer Awards which recognise the best talent and work that GAA volunteers carry out at school and club level.

“I encourage all Ulster clubs and schools to enter a submission to these prestigious awards.”

Irish News editor Noel Doran said: “Our awards help to highlight the tremendous work carried out on a daily basis by GAA clubs and volunteers right across Ulster.

“It’s a great initiative and I would encourage schools and clubs to get their thinking caps on and enter.”

Once again, The Irish News are delighted to have such committed partners in O’Neill’s, Volunteer Now, Wellington Park Hotel, Foras na Gaeilge and Ulster GAA.

Irish News sports editor Thomas Hawkins added: “It’s a whole new ball game this year with our School, Club and Volunteer awards.

“By introducing new categories including an Irish language award and making it easier for clubs and schools to apply it should prove a resounding success.

“This is always a very popular initiative and this new fresh approach will ensure it stays that way.

“My thanks to all the sponsors for coming on board once again, and it’s great to have Foras na Gaeilge on board too this year.”

The application process has also undergone a revamp this year and clubs and schools simply have to submit a 200-word application in as many categories as they like.

All the information, including how to enter, is available at www.irishnews.com/scv

The Irish News School, Club & Volunteer award categories –

Underage initiative of the year

Sometimes an underage initiative in the club just catches the imagination and takes off. Has your club done something different that’s making a difference for underage players?

Coaching initiative of the year

Our club is where we learn the skills and pass them on. Tell us about a coaching initiative in your club that has made a difference for your players.

Club engagement initiative of the year

How do you engage with your all it’s members, young, old, players, parents and supporters. Those connections can make all the difference. Tell us your tale of engagement and how its has made the difference for everyone – playing and non playing.

Health, fitness & well-being initiative of the year

More than a club? Health, wellness, fitness. A force for good. Tell us how you do this to make the difference in your community.

Irish language initiative of the year

The Irish language. Is it a living part of your club? Tell us about your Irish language programme and how it makes the difference.

Overseas club of the year

Miles from home but close in spirit. Tell us about your GAA club. How is your club making a difference overseas?

Primary school of the year award

Post-primary school of the year award

Volunteer of the year award & young volunteer of the year award

Link to online platform www.irishnews.com/scv

Email: clubawards@irishnews.com

School, Club & Volunteer Awards