Special Olympics activists recognised for great work

VOLUNTEERS from Lucan and Drimnagh were recognised for their outstanding contributions at the Special Olympics Ireland Volunteer Awards.

Eastern Regional Volunteer of 2023 Ciara Dolan, from Drimnagh, is active in two Special Olympics Clubs – holding the role of head coach in her swimming club and safeguarding officer in her football club.

Meanwhile, Eastern Regional Youth Volunteer of 2023 Emma O’Flynn, from Lucan, has been involved with Lucan Special Olympics club for the last six years, and has been active in growing the club’s Young Athlete programme.

Overall, 18 volunteers in Ireland were recognised at an awards ceremony held at the Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport Hotel, on Saturday, September 23.

MC for the night was sports broadcaster Gráinne McElwain, who emphasised the vital role of volunteers in empowering Special Olympics athletes to reach their fullest potential.

Matt English, Special Olympics Ireland CEO, said: “Congratulations to all Volunteer Awards winners and a heartfelt thanks to all Special Olympics Ireland volunteers, who are the lifeblood of our organisation and essential to our mission.

Our volunteers work directly with athletes to provide opportunities, organise training and events, spread joy, and ultimately change lives for the better.”

Special Olympics Ireland extends an invitation to all those interested in helping transform the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sport to get involved as volunteers.

For more information on how to become a Special Olympics Ireland volunteer, visit the Special Olympics website HERE.

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