Damolly Women’s Social Football Team shines at Awards Night celebrating club’s 40th anniversary… report and pictures

Award-winning line-up at Damolly celebration

THE spirit of community, resilience, and empowerment was on full display at the Damolly Women’s Social Football Awards Night, as part of Damolly FC’s 40th Anniversary Celebrations at Flagstaff Lodge, Newry.

What began as a modest four-week kickabout for local mums in Summer 2023 has grown into one of the most dynamic and influential women’s social football teams in the region.

With 27 women turning up on that very first night, the momentum has only intensified, building friendships, fitness, and having lots of fun with football along the way.

From playing at iconic venues like Seaview and travelling as far away as Carrick-On-Shannon, to launching weekly 5K runs and even co-hosting several International Women’s Day events, the Damolly Social Women have proven that community football can create a ripple effect far beyond the pitch.

Their success has inspired nearby clubs to start their own women’s teams and earned the club recognition at the national level, including mentions at the IFA’s Girls & Women’s Strategy Launch earlier this year and an invitation to join the new IFA Women’s Social Football Committee.

As part of the celebrations, awards were presented to those who have embodied the team’s core values:

· Player’s Player: Emma Ferguson-Morley

· Manager’s Player: Barbara Dodds

· Most Improved: Selina Magill

· Team Spirit Award: Vicky Paul

· Inspirational Role Model: Joanne Patterson

· Safe Hands (Goalkeeper Award): Lynda Devine

· Assistant Coach Recognition: Brian Henning

“Damolly is more than a football club,” said a spokesperson. “It’s a community. It’s a family. And it’s been an honour for us Social Women to play a small part in this amazing chapter of its story. We have achieved so much in a relatively short space of time. The journey isn’t over yet!”

The evening wrapped with a lively performance by Whiskey Before Breakfast, with plenty of dancing among players past and present, supporters, and guests. The venue, Flagstaff Lodge, Newry, provided excellent food and hospitality, helping to create a night to well and truly remember.

As the team now looks to integrate its youth girls with the goal of building the club’s first ever NIWFA Senior Ladies Team, the message is clear – this is just the beginning for Damolly Women’s Football.

PICTURES: SEAN DONEGAN