BARNES-STORMING EVENING

Liverpool and England legend joins NI greats for 2019 Mcdonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards

MORE than 200 guests attended the annual Mcdonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards at Belfast City Hall with special guests including Liverpool and England legend John Barnes, Northern Ireland manager Michael O’neill and Mcdonald’s Football Ambassador and Spurs great Pat Jennings.

The event once again delivered an exceptional platform to recognise and acknowledge the people who work at the heart of the game, with awards in nine categories and worthy winners selected from right across Northern Ireland.

The event, now in its 18th year, shines a light on the huge contribution of clubs, coaches and volunteers who play vital roles in maintaining and growing the great game locally.

This year saw a record number of nominations across all categories, underlining the growth of the awards and passion for grassroots football. Mcdonald’s Football Ambassador Pat Jennings congratulated all the regional and national award winners: “I’m incredibly proud to be involved in the Mcdonald’s IFA Grassroots Awards. I’ve been involved for many years now and the awards get bigger and better, year on year, with the 2019 showcase highlighting all that is good about the local game.

“These awards are our way of saying thanks to the volunteers who make essential contributions of time and effort to the many grassroots clubs across Northern Ireland.”

John Barnes talked about the wider impact of grassroots football, saying: “Grassroots football isn’t about unearthing the stars of tomorrow, rather it’s about providing opportunities for children to enjoy playing sport and being healthy in a safe environment. The Mcdonald’s IFA awards are a vital part of ensuring the people who work in grassroots football are acknowledged.”