Mayo Young Sports Stars: Shining a light on those who help others

The Connaught Telegraph Mayo Young Sportstars Awards 2025 take place this Friday (March 13) in Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar, where a number of top athletes will be recognised for their achievements last year.

It's not just athletes who have the spotlight shone on them, however, as we make space also for those who give of their time to help others be the best that they can be.

This year, the Volunteer of the Year Award goes to Rebecca Gormley, a 16-year-old who assists in big way at White Tiger Martial Arts.

She has effectively grown up within the club and has been assistant instructor for several years, guiding young athletes in their training and preparation for events.

As noted by White Tiger chief instructor Martin O'Malley, Rebecca excels in working with young people with various challenges, and has gone on to work outside the club in other sporting areas supporting young athletes with special challenges to develop as far as they are capable within their chosen sports.

Indeed, a number of Rebecca's students have endorsed her nomination as Volunteer of the Year, illustrating her great popularity.

Rebecca will be presented with her award on Friday during the gala ceremony in Breaffy House Resort in front of a capacity crowd.