Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA), welcomed over 300 guests to the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle on Friday 20 March for the prestigious NMD Sports Awards, which celebrate sporting achievements in 2025.
The annual celebration shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of athletes, teams and individuals who have made a significant impact on sport across the district over the past year. The event also recognises the invaluable contribution of coaches, volunteers and mentors whose dedication helps sustain and grow a vibrant local sporting community while encouraging active, healthy lifestyles throughout the district.
The evening was hosted by sports presenter Thomas Niblock and included a panel discussion with participants from the PARS (Physical Activity Referral Scheme) and Cardiac Rehabilitation programmes. Panel members spoke about their journey, having joined the programmes to improve their health and how they are now preparing to take on the upcoming Belfast Marathon.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “These awards provide a fantastic opportunity to recognise not only the outstanding achievements of our athletes, but also the tireless work of coaches and volunteers who are the backbone of our clubs and communities. The standard of entries this year was exceptionally high, and everyone shortlisted should be immensely proud of their accomplishments.
“The Council remains fully committed to supporting sport at every level from grassroots participation to elite performance, ensuring that everyone in our district can lead an active and healthy lifestyle.”
SANDSA Chairperson, Oonagh Murray, added, “It is a privilege to be part of an event that celebrates the passion and commitment of individuals across our sporting community. Each nominee has shown incredible dedication, and their achievements are truly inspiring. We congratulate all winners and wish them continued success in the future.”
The winners of this year’s NMD Sports Awards for 2025 in association with SANDSA
Sports Volunteer of the Year 2025: Darran McQuoid – Drumaness Mills FC
Sports Coach of the Year 2025: Shannon Connor – Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club
Sportsperson/Team of the Year with Disability 2025: Tom Williamson – Down Triathlon Club
Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2025: Rachael Carvill – Taekwondo
Junior Club Team of the Year 2025: Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club
Senior Team of the Year 2025: Warrenpoint Golf Club – All-Ireland Barton Shield Team
Senior Sportsperson of the Year 2025: Darrel Wilson – Archery
Lifetime Services to Sport: Presented posthumously in honour of the late
Rory Friel – Athletics
Shannon Connor, Sports Coach of the Year 2025, receiving her award from Rowallane DEA Cllr Tierna Howie
Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2025, Rachael Carvill receiving her award from Cllr Jonathan Jackson, SANDSA Executive
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell, presenting the Lifetime Services to Sport award to Nicola Henry who received it on behalf of her late father, Rory Friel
