Outgoing members of Offaly Sports Partnership honoured at AGM
Six outgoing members of the Offaly Sports Partnership management committee have been honoured in recognition of their dedication and significant voluntary contributions to sport across the county during its recent AGM.
Outgoing chairperson, Dr Jude Feehan, was honoured for his outstanding and long-standing contribution, having served 18 years on the management committee, including roles on the executive, governance and risk committees, and as both vice-Chair and chair. He was also recognised for over 40 years of voluntary service in sport, particularly with Community Games, and for being named Offaly Sport Volunteer of the Year in 2024 by the Federation of Irish Sport.
A strong advocate for children’s sport, Seán Campbell served on both the management and executive committees for almost ten years. He played a key role in delivering the Sports Partnership’s volunteer celebration in 2018, which featured Packie Bonner as guest of honour. He also supported several clubs in improving their energy efficiency.
A passionate promoter of water sports, particularly canoeing and kayaking, Van Gillessen, played a central role in the establishment of Tullamore Canoe Club in 2003 and has supported its development for over two decades. Through his work with West Offaly Training, he has delivered IT and water sports training within the community, and has supported Special Olympics paddlers in their competitive journeys.
A strong advocate for inclusive, community-based sport, particularly social basketball for adults at both local and national level, Breege Loftus previously organised social basketball in Geashill and has contributed to a range of community initiatives, including the development of a local playground and outdoor sports area. More recently, she has been involved in squash development and plans to upgrade local facilities.
Eileen O’Neill Magner has long been a dedicated advocate for women and girls in golf. Through her involvement in the Offaly Golf Academy, she ensured strong female participation in programme activities. She also supported innovative initiatives during Covid-19 restrictions, including remote putting challenges coordinated by the Sports Partnership.
Meanwhile, Carol Scott has been a strong champion for inclusive sport for people with disabilities and additional needs. Drawing on her experience as a parent of Special Olympian Moira Scott, she has contributed to a number of awareness-raising initiatives promoting inclusion in sport. During her time on the management committee, she provided a strong voice advocating for continued investment in inclusive programmes.
Those attending the AGM also heard of a strong year of progress in 2025.
This included securing nearly €725,000 in funding and key staffing developments, such as a student placement and the appointment of a Child & Youth Coach.
In a comprehensive progress report to the AGM, Eamonn Henry, Co-ordinator of Offaly Sports Partnership, stated that a significant participation was recorded across programmes, with strong engagement from children, older adults, people with disabilities, women and diverse communities, alongside continued use of three local sports hubs. Flagship initiatives such as the Diversity Games and the Para-Potential pathway also continued to grow.
The Partnership further supported clubs and organisations through training, leadership development, €42,000 in grant aid, and investment in small capital projects, while advancing county sport and outdoor recreation planning.
Mr Henry acknowledged the vital contribution of the management nommittee, staff and tutors, and the continued support of Offaly County Council.
He also recognised the role of partner organisations, schools, clubs and community groups, along with key funders including Sport Ireland, the HSE, Tusla, TUS Athlone, and other national and local agencies.
The Offaly Sports Partnership Annual Report is available at: www.offalysports.ie/offaly-sports-partnership-annual-reports