Limerick’s Martin Casey takes top award at Ireland’s Volunteers in Sport Awards

Limerick’s Martin Casey takes top award at Ireland’s Volunteers in Sport Awards. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Limerick’s Martin Casey named Outstanding Achievement Award recipient at 32 countywide celebrations of volunteers in sport at annual awards ceremony

Co. Limerick’s Martin Casey was revealed as the Outstanding Achievement Award recipient at the 2024 Volunteers in Sport Awards, for his impact as a leader in community engagement through sport.

The Federation of Irish Sport celebrated 35 recipients of the 2024 Volunteers in Sport Awards on Friday, February 28th, recognising one individual from every county in Ireland (four in Dublin) for their exceptional commitment to enabling sport and physical activity thrive in their local sports club and communities.

Present at the awards to pay special tribute to the volunteers was Minister Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform who gave the keynote address. In addition to celebrating the 32 county individuals, one recipient was chosen for their Outstanding Achievement and this year the award went to Limerick’s Martin Casey.

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Martin Casey’s dedication to Limerick Sports Partnership and his local community has had a transformative impact, particularly in promoting physical activity, inclusion, and engagement. His journey with Limerick Sports Partnership began in Transition Year through the Voluntary Inspired Participation (VIP) Programme, where he gained coaching qualifications and contributed 100 volunteer hours. With Limerick Sports Partnership’s support, he later obtained coaching and gym instructor certifications, giving back an additional 50 volunteer hours.

Over the past four years, Martin has been instrumental in leading initiatives that expand access to sport and physical activity. His work with the Travelling Community, including a mid-term camp that engaged 46 children from Limerick City halting sites, has significantly boosted participation. He also played a key role in developing and delivering the Women’s Self-Defence Programme, which was expanded due to high demand, empowering women with essential self-defence skills.

In his role as a coach and tutor, Martin’s leadership, passion and ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds have made Limerick Sports Partnership more inclusive and welcoming. His unwavering commitment continues to inspire and strengthen community engagement through sport.

Speaking at the awards, Minister Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform commented, “The Volunteer in Sport Awards are always one of the highlights in the sporting calendar. It is a pleasure to once again represent the Government as we celebrate the contributions and achievements of our incredible volunteers who sacrifice time, effort and energy so that we can all enjoy sport at local, national and international level. Volunteers are the backbone of Irish sport at all levels and it is important they are formally recognised and encouraged so they continue to drive interest, passion and participation in sports in our communities. I congratulate all those honoured on the day and thank them for their contribution to our society.”