Nominate Local Sporting Heroes for the NMD Sports Awards

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA) is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for this year’s NMD Sports Awards.

These awards celebrate sporting excellence and the positive role of sport and physical activity by recognising the outstanding achievements and dedication of local athletes, teams, coaches, and volunteers throughout the district in 2025.

The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 20 March 2026 at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, bringing together clubs, communities and sporting representatives to honour those who inspire participation and achievement at all levels.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Philip Campbell, said, “These awards offer a wonderful opportunity to recognise the remarkable achievements of individuals and teams throughout our district. The athletes, coaches and volunteers nominated represent the very best of local sport. Their hard work and passion ensure that opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity continue to grow for people of all ages and abilities. We are proud to celebrate their contributions.”

The categories available for nomination include:

• Sports Coach of the Year 2025
• Sportsperson / Team of the Year with Disability 2025
• Sports Volunteer of the Year 2025
• Junior Team of the Year 2025
• Senior Team of the Year 2025
• Lifetime Services to Sport
• Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2025
• Senior Sportsperson of the Year 2025

Nominations are open to athletes, sports clubs, schools, community groups, local organisations and members of the public across the district. Nomination forms are available from:

• Council website: www.newrymournedown.org/nmd-sports-awards
• Newry Leisure Centre Reception: 60 Cecil Street, Newry, BT35 6AU
• Down Leisure Centre Reception: 114 Market Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6LZ

Completed nomination forms must be submitted by Monday 26 January 2026 at 4pm.

Forms can be emailed to leisureandsport@nmandd.org or returned to reception at Newry or Down Leisure Centres.