The Golf Ireland 2026 Club Volunteer of the Year Awards have been launched. Photo: Ryan Byrne | Inpho
Published:
Tue 23 Sep 2025, 7:08 PM
Golf Ireland has announced the launch of the 2026 Club Volunteer of the Year Awards, returning for their fourth year with five categories to celebrate the vital role of volunteers in golf clubs in Mayo across the island of Ireland.
The awards shine a spotlight on the passion, dedication and generosity of individuals who volunteer their time to help their clubs and communities.
This year’s categories are as follows: Women & Girls Award, Disability & Inclusion Award, Sustainability Award, Junior Development Award, and Excellence in Volunteering Award. Nominations are open and can be submitted online by clubs or individuals. Multiple nominations are welcome, and entries will be considered for both regional and national recognition.
The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, November 18, with winners to be announced early next year at the annual general meeting of Golf Ireland.
“Every club depends on the goodwill and commitment of its volunteers, and these awards give us the chance to put their work in the spotlight. Time and again we see how much of a difference volunteers make, whether creating opportunities for young people, making clubs more inclusive, or finding ways to make golf more sustainable,” said Mary Culliton, chair of the Volunteer of the Year working group.
Mary added: “Last year’s winners showed the extraordinary range of contributions being made across the country, and they were a reminder of the real impact one person can have. We hope this year’s awards will highlight those individuals whose dedication helps clubs not only survive, but flourish.”
The 2024 edition saw five outstanding volunteers honoured for their contributions. Janet Slattery (St. Helen’s Bay) received the Level Par Award for her work in achieving the Women in Golf Gold Standard and driving greater participation. Kevin Farrell (Edenderry) was recognised in the Disability and Inclusion category for his impact with youth-at-risk groups, engaging and inspiring young people. Gordon Murray (Grange) won the Sustainability Award for reducing the club’s carbon footprint and securing GEO certification. The Junior Development Award was presented to Judith Connolly (Portadown), who revitalised the junior programme. Michael O’Brien (Ballyneety) claimed the Excellence in Service Award for his leadership and vision in helping transform the club into a community hub.
“Volunteers are the foundation of our sport. Without them, clubs simply could not function in the way they do. The Club Volunteer of the Year Awards are our opportunity to thank them, share their stories and inspire others,” said Golf Ireland CEO Mark Kennelly.
“This year’s categories reflect the different ways volunteers shape the future of golf, from developing juniors and promoting inclusion to protecting the environment and supporting their clubs in countless practical ways. We encourage every club to make a nomination and give their volunteers the recognition they deserve.”
For more information on the Golf Ireland Club Volunteer of the Year Awards, including nomination forms and entry criteria, visit here.
Published:
Tue 23 Sep 2025, 7:08 PM
