A form of small-sided football, futsal can be played anywhere at a recreational level. This ‘Futsal Award’ celebrates an individual or club that has championed the introduction of futsal in their community. 

Founded in 2017 by Chairman Martin Cassidy and Head Coach David Alonso, Omagh Futsal Club primarily uses the sport of futsal to promote fitness, advance education and promote social development within the Fermanagh and Omagh District. The Club runs a range of programmes, including disability futsal, girls only futsal, refugee integration futsal, over 35's, schools’ programmes, teenager programme and local tournaments.

The ‘People’s Award’ recognises the sustained outstanding contribution made by an individual to football in their local community and beyond.

Described as the ‘Godfather’ of grassroots football in Derry, Gerry Doherty–who this year celebrated his 80thbirthday –has dedicated decades of loyal service to Foyle Harps, having been involved with the club’s senior team before establishing its youth offering in 1984.

The ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award recognises the countless hours given by a dedicated volunteer to help their local club and game. Having joined Dromara Village FC as a teenager, Malcolm Hanna became a coach with the club at the age of 20.

“I still get a great buzz every week,” he said. “When I see players that have come up through the youth programme as kids progressing to play for our senior team on a Saturday, I get a huge amount of satisfaction.”

The ‘Wes Gregg Coach of the Year’ is awarded in recognition of the outstanding contribution of a coach at a grassroots club in Northern Ireland or Fun Football provider. It celebrates an individual who encourages young people starting, staying and/or succeeding in football through high quality coaching.

Award winner Chris Finlay said he was “overwhelmed” to have won the award. “It’s a huge achievement not only for me, but for the kids at the club who give so much back week in, week out,” he said. “They are the ones that have made this happen for me and who give me such a buzz from my role.”

The ‘Young Volunteer of the Year ’award recognizes the contribution young people make in the community within Grassroots Football. The category is open to young people from 14 to 24 years of age that make a significant impact in helping to support and develop opportunities for people to participate in the local game.

Charlie Rush said he was “hugely excited” to be picking up his Award, presented by Sir Geoff Hurst, at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. “I never imagined that I would be receiving an award at this Stadium where so many incredible players have played,” he added.