National distinction for Mayo Sports Partnership
Mayo Sports Partnership has been named Local Sports Partnership of the Year at the Irish Sport Industry Awards in Dublin.
The presentation was made to Charlie Lambert and members of his team by Clann Credo regional manager Tony Marshall.
The accolade was in recognition of delivering measurable health outcomes, fostered community engagement and strengthened links between sport and healthcare through a shift toward preventative, community-based physical activity.
In 2023, Mayo Sports Partnership (MSP) appointed a Physical Activity for Health Officer, Edel O'Malley, to improve access to community-based physical activity for older adults and those with chronic health conditions.
Collaborating with local physiotherapists, MSP launched the evidence based “Staying Fit for the Future: Better Balance” (SFFFBB) 10-week programme, delivering 12 courses across three Mayo community centres in 2024.
Over 100 participants, most new to MSP, saw significant improvements in balance, mobility, and strength, with 85% continuing exercise independently.
The initiative fostered social connections, reduced isolation and strengthened ties between MSP and health services while demonstrating measurable health benefits and supporting a shift from treatment to prevention.
Future plans include expanding the programme and upskilling instructors to further enhance community health and wellbeing.
Charlie Lambert, head of Mayo Sports Partnership, explained: "I am delighted for everyone involved in the project, Mayo Sports Partnership staff especially our Physical Activity for Health Officer Edel O'Malley, the committee, our partners including HSE Health and Wellbeing and HSE Primary Care Physiotherapy Department, everyone in Mayo County Council in the community section and of course all the participants.
"I'd like to thank all of them for their work in this project and it would not be possible without the collaboration between all involved and that’s one thing we are very good at here in Mayo, working in partnership. So we were delighted to accept the award on behalf of everybody."
“A big thank you to Cork Sports Partnership and Cork physiotherapists for their help and assistance in developing the initiative,” Mr. Lambert added.
The gala event featured two engaging conversations highlighting the power and potential of Irish sport beyond the field of play.
Senator Evanne Ní Chuilinn sat down with MC Sean O’Rourke for a fireside conversation to reflect on her journey from RTÉ to the Seanad, sharing insights on sport, advocacy and public life.
This was followed by an insightful panel discussion where Minister Alan Dillon, Jill Downey, and Peter McKenna explored sport’s growing economic impact and Ireland’s global opportunity as a host nation for major international events.
To view further information about the “Staying Fit for the Future Better Balance Programme” view this video.