Mayo No Name Club members feted at national awards

Two young people from Crossmolina and Claremorris were honoured at the No Name Club National Youth Awards 2025, held this week to celebrate leadership, resilience, and community spirit among young people involved in No Name Clubs across Ireland.

No Name Clubs are run by, and for young people aged 15-18 years, and enable young members to organise and enjoy positive alternatives to alcohol and drug-centred activities.

Ciara McGrath, a member of No Name Club Crossmolina, and Diane Hession, a member of No Name Club Claremorris, were both nominated for Host of the Year 2025.

Diane is a TY student at Mount St. Michael Secondary School in Claremorris and is known for her inclusive spirit and positive energy.

Ciara is a TY student at Gortnor Abbey and balances her time between school, sports, volunteering and her close-knit life on the family farm.

Con Nolan, who has been a No Name Club volunteer in Claremorris for over 25 years, received a special presentation for 20 years of service to the No Name Club head office.

The awards mark the culmination of a year-long journey, with members first nominated at regional level before progressing to the national final.

The event brought together club members, families, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate the positive impact of youth-led, alcohol and drug-free spaces.

The event also marked the launch of the organisation’s new Strategic Plan 2024–2029, which sets out key priorities for the years ahead, including expanding youth participation, promoting mental wellbeing, deepening community impact and securing long-term sustainability.