Pictured above; Mary O’Connor FIS CEO, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath TD, Dr. Una May CEO Sport Ireland

The Federation of Irish Sport celebrated the 7th annual Irish Sport Industry Awards which recognise the important economic role Sport plays to the Irish economy. Minister for Finance Michael McGrath TD gave the keynote address reaffirming the Government’s ongoing investment in sport through the Sports Capital Grants, Major Sports Infrastructure under LSSIF and the record funding available recently announced under the latest round of Sports Equipment Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (‘SCEP’).

The prestigious Banking Hall of the College Green Hotel was the venue for the popular awards ceremony which was once again extremely well attended by key stakeholders across the sector. The 11 award categories recognise a cross section of the work being done by new and innovative sports tech enterprises, the significant sports sponsorship market, media campaigns in sport, alongside the important work being done by National Governing Bodies and Local Sports Partnerships. In addition to this the awards honour standout individuals making a difference in Sport. For the full list of winners see below.

The much-anticipated award for National Governing Body of the Year 2024 went to Canoeing Ireland. Canoeing Ireland has had the challenging task of continuing the organisational growth achieved in recent years with the passion and ambition which is endemic within Canoeing Ireland. Earlier this year they set out a new strategic plan (2024 – 2027) with an ambitious path for the organisation and its members, continuing the growth seen in over the last four years while maintaining and enhancing their excellence in the areas of governance and leadership.

The recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Irish Sport for 2024 is John Trainor (1972-2024). Widely regarded as the ‘father’ of the sponsorship industry in Ireland and, in particular, the professionalisation of the discipline. John was the Founder and CEO of ONSIDE. As well as being the first Irish Board Director of the European Sponsorship Association, he was a fellow of the Marketing Institute of Ireland where his championing of the sponsorship discipline helped give senior marketing decision-makers more confidence to invest in partnerships.

The recipient of the Women in Business in Sport Award, in partnership with KPMG for 2024 is Sarah Keane CEO Swim Ireland. This is a milestone year for Keane as it marks 20 years at the helm on Swim Ireland and her final Olympic Games as President of the Olympic Federation of Ireland. Sarah has international experience in Governance and Gender Equality Issues as well as extensive experience in Corporate Management and Governance.

The Jimmy Magee FIS/ASJI Sports Coverage of the Year Award, was presented Mark Gallagher of the Irish Daily Mail. Mark Gallagher has been a sports journalist with the Irish Mail on Sunday, the Irish Daily Mail since August 2005, covering a wide variety of sports from Gaelic games to boxing to soccer.

Mary O’Connor, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport said, “The Federation is delighted to celebrate all the nominees and award winners this evening. It is hugely important to not to underestimate the collective power of sport and the positive impact it has on us as individuals but also to our communities and our economy.  

The Federation believes that by continuing to invest in sport at a regional and national level, we can ensure that everyone has access to quality facilities, coaching, and opportunities to get involved, regardless of their background or socio-economic status. This not only benefits individual participants but also contributes to the overall health and well-being of our communities, fostering social cohesion and a sense of belonging. Congratulations to all those honoured this evening. “

 Minister for Finance Michael McGrath TD, said, “I wish to commend the Federation of Irish Sport on the 7th hosting of the Irish Sport Industry Awards and I want to congratulate all the award winners and all those that have been shortlisted.

 These awards play a huge part in recognising the depth and quality of the many programmes and initiatives being carried out across the country to promote participation and inclusivity in sport and physical activity.” 

Full List of Award Winners

Best Sports Sponsorship
Olympic Federation of Ireland & PTSB, Dare to Believe

Best Use of Communications Platforms in Sport
FAI, FAI Connect

Best New Sports Business of the Year, in partnership with Sport Ireland
Precision Sports Technology

Best Sports Business of the Year, in partnership with Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet
SportsKey

Best Initiative to Promote Women in Sport & Physical Activity
LGFA Sports Direct G4MAO (Gaelic4Mothers&Others)

Best Initiative to Promote Inclusivity in Sport & Physical Activity
Field Of Vision

Local Sports Partnership of the Year
Clare Local Sports Partnership

Governing Body of the Year
Canoeing Ireland

Jimmy Magee FIS/ASJI Sports Coverage of the Year
Mark Gallagher

Women in Business in Sport Award, in partnership with KPMG
Sarah Keane

Outstanding Contribution to Irish Sport Award
John Trainor