Inaugural winners of Mayo's Inclusive Club of the Year Award revealed

'A celebration of the spirit of participation' lauded by Charlie Lambert

The head of Mayo Sports Partnership has lauded The Connaught Telegraph's Young Sportstars of the Year Awards as 'a celebration of the spirit of participation'.

Charlie Lambert said it is not about 'who finished first' because sport is 'a masterclass of life'.

He elaborated: "Whether you are here as an All-Ireland champion or a rising star in your local parish, you represent the 130,000 people of this county. When you put on that jersey or step onto that track, you carry our pride with you."

"Sport teaches us how to win with humility and, more importantly, how to lose with grace.

"Look at the girls from Gaelcholáiste Chomáin in Rossport. A small school that took on the giants of Olympic handball and won.

"They proved that ambition isn't measured by the size of your school, but by the size of your heart.

"And remember Cadhla Ní Chionnaith, who at just 12 years old, showed us that dyspraxia isn't a barrier to national karate gold medals. These stories prove that in Mayo, extraordinary things happen in ordinary places.

"Success is never a solo journey. Parents are the 'taxi service', the kit-washers and the loudest voices on the sideline. But parents aren't just preparing the future for their children, they are building their resilience and grit.

"While we celebrate individual skill, we must also celebrate the values that keep sport alive. This year, the Mayo Sports Partnership has been proud to collaborate with The Connaught Telegraph on two very special awards that reflect the true soul of our community.

"First, the Young Volunteer of the Year award. This year it goes to 16-year-old Rebecca Gormley from White Tiger Martial Arts.

"Rebecca has effectively grown up in her club, transitioning from a student to an assistant instructor who guides younger athletes with incredible patience.

"Her work with athletes facing special challenges shows that leadership isn't about age; it's about the willingness to help others be their best.

"Second, we are thrilled to present the inaugural Inclusive Club of the Year award to Manulla FC.

"This is a new category for the Mayo Young Sportstars Awards and Manulla FC is the perfect first recipient.

“Through their collaboration with Mayo Autism Camp, they have created a culture where every family is visible and valued. They aren't just a football club; they are a standout example of how to remove barriers and make sport a home for everyone.

"At the Mayo Sports Partnership, our vision is simple: 'More People Enjoying More Sports’. We want you to stay involved - not just as players, but as the leaders and coaches of tomorrow.

"The trophies on these tables might eventually gather dust, but the friendships you’ve made and the resilience you’ve built tonight will last a lifetime. You are the living proof that Mayo is a powerhouse of talent.

"Wear your colours with pride. Support each other. And remember: the collective 'we' is always stronger than 'me'."