TRANSLINK and Ulster GAA are calling on all clubs across the province to nominate young members for the Translink Ulster GAA Young Volunteer of the Month award.

The award celebrates the outstanding contribution made by young members to their clubs and communities. Each month during the season, a winner will be selected who best represents the volunteering ethos of the GAA.

This is the seventh year of the award and at the end of the season, one person will be named ‘Volunteer of the Year’, which last year, was won by Hannah Shiels, from the Fanad Gaels club. The overall prize package includes a full set of underage jerseys for the winner’s club, as well as commemorative merchandise and trophy.

Clubs are encouraged to nominate young people aged 16-24 years for the accolade. Entries are welcome for volunteers who positively contribute to every aspect of community life – from coaching and mentoring, to fundraising and committee membership.

Damian Bannon, Belfast Area Manager at Translink said:

“At Translink we’re committed to ensuring our local communities are better connected, which is why we’re pleased to support this important Young Volunteer initiative which celebrates the fantastic volunteering efforts delivered by young GAA members.

 “We know that young people play such an important role in their communities, taking on extra responsibilities and duties to help other young people, fundraising for charities, and supporting others within their local area through volunteering efforts. We’re looking forward to hearing about the great work local young people are doing and recognising their efforts each month through these awards.”

Ulster GAA Public Relations Officer, Michael McArdle said:

“Volunteering is at the heart of every GAA club across the province and we are delighted that our initiative with Translink recognises the positive impact that our youth members have with their clubs and communities, through a wide range of volunteer activities, including coaching, well-being schemes, fundraising and committee membership.

 “I would encourage all of our clubs to showcase their own young leaders by nominating them for the monthly awards.”

To nominate a young person for this award, visit – ulster.gaa.ie/youngvolunteeraward

The nomination process opens on the first Monday of each month and closes on the 22nd of each month, after which a judging panel will select the winner. Monthly winners will receive a commemorative certificate, an item of Ulster GAA merchandise, and a set of Enterprise tickets, provided by Translink