The McDonald’s Irish FA Awards, now in their fourth year,  not only reflect the outstanding achievements of grassroots coaches, clubs and volunteers at a national level, they also identify and shine the spotlight on the great work that is taking place within local communities on a regional level, through the McDonald’s Irish FA Regional Awards.

The categories that are decided on a regional basis are Coach of the Year, Club of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.  These awards are recognised across a geographical spread of Northern Southern, Eastern and Western sections and the four shortlisted candidates for each category then go forward to compete for the overall Award.

A great example of a regional award winner who is making a difference within his local community is John Clarke from Waveney Youth FC.  He was recognised  as the 2013 McDonald’s Irish FA Northern Regional Coach of the Year, receiving his accolade from McDonald’s Head of Northern Ireland Football Pat Jennings during a presentation in June.

Speaking after receiving his award John said;“I’m humbled to be recognised for doing something I love.  Coaching means the world to me and I was very honoured to receive this award.  The club at Waveney Youth FC has really gone from strength to strength and I’m very proud to have played my part in that.   I’d also like to thank my fantastic group of young players.”

If you know a candidate who displays similar commitment to benefitting grassroots football and you’d like them to be recognised at regional or national level please nominate them at www.McDonalds.co.uk/Awards or www.IrishFA.com/CommunityAwards.

Goalkeeping legend Pat Jennings said: “The McDonald’s Irish FA Community Awards recognise the coaches, clubs and volunteers who give their all for grassroots football throughout Northern Ireland.  It’s great to get out and about around different areas throughout Northern Ireland and to witness firsthand the excellent job that is being done for grassroots football at a regional level.  

Nominations can be made via www.McDonalds.co.uk/Awards and www.IrishFA.com/CommunityAwards  so please get online and fill out a nomination form for a volunteer, coach or club that goes the extra mile for football in your community.

The Awards form a key part of McDonald’s Community Partnership with the Irish FA; a partnership that has been developing grassroots football since 2002 and is helping young footballers shine.  This partnership is delivering a lasting legacy for grassroots football in Northern Ireland through KickStart funding, ongoing coach creation and education, the Club Accreditation Scheme and a number of regional Small Sided Games Centres– all contributing to ‘Better Play for Kids’.

ENDS