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A young volunteer from Damolly FC in Newry has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to grassroots football after being named Young Volunteer of the Year at the McDonald's Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards.
Mia Patterson received the award at a ceremony earlier this month at Belfast City Hall, where she was recognised for racking up an impressive 400 voluntary hours over the past two years. The Young Volunteer of the Year Award is open to those aged 14 to 24 who make a significant impact in helping to support and develop opportunities for people to participate in the local game. Mia was one of the first youth volunteers to get involved with Damolly.
The McDonald's Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards have been running for over 20 years in Northern Ireland and recognise the work and commitment of football clubs and volunteers who give up their time and make a long-lasting impact on young people and communities across Northern Ireland.
The event was attended by Minister of Education Paul Givan MLA and Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly.
Former Northern Ireland captain and record appearance holder Steven Davis and Northern Ireland goalkeeping hero Pat Jennings, who is a longstanding McDonald's Fun Football Ambassador, were also amongst the guests at the event.
Delivering a message to the winners and finalists at the awards ceremony, Steven Davis said: "The dedication and time that volunteers give every week across the season is amazing, and without them, grassroots football simply wouldn't exist. Congratulations to everyone here this evening."
McDonald's Fun Football Ambassador Pat Jennings also praised the award winners and nominees, commenting: "In the time I have spent as an ambassador, I have loved travelling across Northern Ireland meeting the volunteers who make it happen for the kids. It's taken me right back to where football started for me."
McDonald's Franchisee John McCollum said the company is passionate about feeding and fostering communities and supporting local families, adding that its commitment to grassroots football is a great way to demonstrate that. He also pointed out: "The Grassroots Football Awards give us a great opportunity to celebrate our local grassroots football heroes, who are the beating heart of the game we all love here in Northern Ireland. Well done to the winners."
The awards ceremony highlighted the vital role volunteers play in keeping grassroots football alive in communities across Northern Ireland.
