IRISH international hockey goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran, from Larne, has been shortlisted for the Creator of the Year award at the 2025 Team Ireland Olympic Sport Awards, presented by the Olympic Federation of Ireland.

The prestigious ceremony, taking place on December 6, will celebrate the standout performances and achievements from across Irish Olympic sport in 2025, with 10 award recipients to be revealed on the night.

McFerran’s nomination recognises her work on the Unboxed podcast, which she launched just over a year ago.

Across 24 episodes, Ayeisha has sat down with athletes from around the world to share their stories both on and off the pitch, exploring the experiences, challenges, and inspirations that shape their journeys.

Her authentic storytelling and commitment to amplifying athlete voices have resonated deeply with listeners and helped build a vibrant community around sport and identity.

The Creator of the Year category celebrates individuals who use creative platforms to inspire and connect audiences with the Olympic movement. McFerran is shortlisted alongside swimmers Daniel and Nathan Wiffen’s Vlog and gymnast Rhys McClenaghan.

The Team Ireland Olympic Sport Awards will celebrate #TheBestOfUs, shining a spotlight on those who have inspired the nation while recognising the dedication, creativity, and excellence that underpin every performance.

Public voting for the awards is now open until November 14 at olympicsportawards.com.

Ayeisha was a member of the Ireland team that played in the 2018 Womens Hockey World Cup final and was also named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.

She was also a member of the Pegasus team that won the 2014–15 Women’s Irish Hockey League. Between 2015 and 2017 she was named three times as an NFHCA All-American while playing for Louisville Cardinals and is currently with Tilburg in Holland.