NMD Sports Awards: Nominate Your Local Heroes

by Liam O'Connor Sports Editor

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Opens Nominations for 2025 Sports Awards

The Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA), has announced the opening of nominations for the annual NMD Sports Awards, recognizing athletic achievement and dedication within the district.

The awards program aims to celebrate the positive impact of sport and physical activity by honoring the accomplishments of local athletes, teams, coaches, and volunteers throughout 2025. The initiative underscores the council’s commitment to fostering a thriving sporting community and promoting active lifestyles for all residents.

The awards ceremony is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle. This event will bring together representatives from local clubs, communities, and the broader sporting world to acknowledge those who inspire participation and excellence at every level.

According to a statement from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Philip Campbell, “These awards offer a splendid prospect to recognise the remarkable achievements of individuals and teams throughout our district. the athletes,coaches and volunteers nominated represent the very best of local sport. Their hard work and passion ensure that opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity continue to grow for people of all ages and abilities. We are proud to celebrate their contributions.”

Did you know? – The NMD Sports Awards have been running annually for several years,consistently highlighting the region’s sporting talent. Previous winners have gone on to achieve regional and national recognition.

Award Categories for 2025

A diverse range of categories will be presented at the 2026 ceremony, acknowledging various contributions to the sporting landscape. Nominations are currently being accepted in the following areas:

  • sports Coach of the Year 2025
  • Sportsperson / Team of the Year with Disability 2025
  • Sports Volunteer of the Year 2025
  • Junior Team of the Year 2025
  • Senior Team of the Year 2025
  • Lifetime Services to Sport
  • Junior Sportsperson of the year 2025
  • Senior Sportsperson of the Year 2025

Who Can Nominate?

Nominations are open to a broad spectrum of individuals and organizations within the district, including athletes, sports clubs, schools, community groups, local organizations, and members of the public. This inclusive approach ensures that all deserving candidates have the opportunity to be recognized for their contributions.

interested parties are encouraged to obtain nomination forms and submit completed applications by the deadline of Monday, January 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Forms can be submitted electronically via email to [email protected] or delivered in person to the reception areas of the Newry or Down Leisure Centres.

The NMD Sports Awards represent a notable opportunity to celebrate the dedication and achievements of the local sporting community, reinforcing the importance of sport and physical activity in the Newry, Mourne and Down District.

Pro tip – When submitting a nomination, provide specific examples of the nominee’s achievements and contributions. Detailed information strengthens the application and increases the chances of success.

Why are the NMD Sports Awards being held? The Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with SANDSA, is hosting the annual NMD Sports awards to recognise and celebrate athletic achievements and dedication within the district throughout 2025. The awards aim to promote active lifestyles and a thriving sporting community.

Who is eligible for nomination? Nominations are open to a wide range of individuals and organizations, including athletes, sports clubs, schools, community groups, local organizations, and members of the public.The awards recognize athletes, teams, coaches, and volunteers.

What categories are available for nomination? Eight categories are open for nominations: Sports Coach of the

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