McDonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards winners were celebrated at the national awards ceremony held at Belfast City Hall. The event, which has been running for 24 years in Northern Ireland, recognizes the hard work and dedication of football clubs and volunteers who make a lasting impact on young people and communities. High-profile politicians like Communities Minister Gordon Lyons and Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Andrew McCormick were in attendance.
During the ceremony, Minister Lyons praised the grassroots football volunteers, calling them the lifeblood of communities. He emphasized the values of teamwork and respect that children learn through grassroots football, thanks to the efforts of these volunteers. Carl Frampton and Pat Jennings, both involved in grassroots football, commended the winners and finalists for their commitment and dedication.
Pat Jennings, a Fun Football Ambassador for almost twenty years, highlighted the positive impact of McDonald’s Fun Football programme on young people in Northern Ireland. McDonald’s franchisee Paddy Cusack expressed the company’s commitment to supporting local communities through grassroots football. The new Fun Football programme launched in 2022 aims to provide over one million children aged 5-11 with free football coaching, making it the largest grassroots participation programme in the UK.
In addition to celebrating the grassroots football heroes, the awards ceremony also served as a platform to recognize the crucial support provided by McDonald’s franchisees to local clubs. The event showcased the significant role that McDonald’s and the Irish FA play in ensuring that all young people, regardless of background or ability, have the opportunity to play football and benefit from the values it teaches.
The success of the Fun Football programme and the ongoing support from McDonald’s franchisees highlight the positive impact of grassroots football in Northern Ireland. Through their dedication and passion, volunteers continue to shape communities and inspire the next generation of young footballers. Congratulations to all the winners of the McDonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards for their outstanding contributions to the local football community.