Things to Know

  • Only valid (complete and accurate) entries will be considered.
  • All nominations will be considered by the Selection Committee to identify a short list of finalists to present to the esteemed judging panel for final decision.
  • All entries will receive an automated response to confirm receipt of nomination. Please follow our social media channels or official awards website for further updates.
  • Only successful applicant will be notified directly.
  • You will be required to create an account to submit an nomination
  • Entries close at COB on Wednesday 9 th December 2026.
  • There will be an in-person awards ceremony on Thursday 25 th February 2027 to present each winner with their commemorative award.
     

Judging Process

All entries received will be reviewed by the Selection Committee and shortlisted for judging by the Judging Panel. For details of the judging panel click here.

 

Selection Criteria

When evaluating the candidates, the Selection Committee will consider the following:
 Length of service as a volunteer (minimum 2 years)
 Number of roles served within the club or sporting organisation
 Impact on the club or sporting organisation and the wider impact on the community  Dedication to the sport, growing participation, inclusivity or innovation
 Overall merit
 Other qualities


Top Tip! Be sure to include details of retention of members/players or how they have increased participation within the club or organisation.
Top Tip! Demonstrate the difference/impact the nominee has had on an individual participant or team.
 

Rules & Eligibility

  • Each nominee must have served in his/her voluntary role for no less than 2 years and must still be acting in the role for which he/she is being nominated
  • There will be 36 county awards and an Outstanding Achievement award.
  • Individuals who receive pay in return for their services will not be eligible. The reimbursement of expenses is not considered pay for the purposes of these awards.
  • You may not nominate yourself for this award
  • Individuals being nominated should be informed by the nominator.
  • Contact details for the nominated individual must be provided.
  • Entries can only by made via the online entry form.
  • Each entry will receive an automated response confirming receipt of entry.
  • Due to the large number of entries individual feedback on nominations is not provided.
  • Other than what is required, do not send any additional information as such material cannot be considered.  Each nomination must have their club secretary or sporting organisation approval.
  • The successful candidates will each receive a special commemorative award.
  • Before receiving an award, each nominee will be required to sign a waiver form granting the Awards organisers together with any Award Sponsor the right to the use of his/her name, likeness or photograph without compensation in any publicity or for promotional purposes carried out.
  • The winners will be announced on www.awards.irishsport.ie
  • Only the final county and club winners will be contacted directly.
  • All proposed award winners will be subject to Garda Vetting.
  • Those nominated for roles working with children or vulnerable adults will be subject to a garda vetting check to ensure compliance.
  • Being nominated for another volunteer scheme does not preclude entry under this particular scheme.
  • All decisions are final.
  • Event organisers reserve the right to amend dates.

If you have any questions about nominating someone, email us at info@irishsport.ie