A Donegal volunteer who has dedicated over 45 years to community rugby has been shortlisted for an award for his dedication.
Victor Kearney, who has been at Donegal RFC since 1974, has been shortlisted in the adult category for the SONI Real Rugby Heroes Award which was launched by electricity System Operator for Northern Ireland (SONI).
The electricity operator received dozens of nominations for inspiring coaches, fundraisers, treasurers, event managers, groundsmen and many more – all of which have dedicated endless hours for the love of rugby and their club.
The eight finalists are Victor Kearney, Donegal Town RFC, David Workman, Ballynahinch RFC, Ian Wallace, Ards RFC, Paul Blewitt, Donaghadee RFC, Heather Thornton, Rainey Old Boys, Gerry Lafferty, Coleraine RFC, Jeremy Worth, Letterkenny and Raymond Reid, Banbridge RFC.
The initiative recognises and rewards volunteers who contribute to grassroots rugby and make a positive impact on their club and community.
Nick Fullerton, Connections Manager and Director of SONI said: “We are delighted to support this initiative which celebrates and rewards volunteers who are dedicated to serving their community. It is brilliant to see such dedication and passion amongst the entries.
“The judging panel was thoroughly impressed by the level of entries and the contribution made by volunteers who give up so much of their free time for the benefit of their local club and community.”
The public can vote for their favourite Rugby Hero online until April 5.
The overall SONI Real Rugby Hero will walk away with a £1,000 bursary for the club.
Chris Webster, Head of Rugby Development at Ulster Rugby said: “The selection process for the semi-finalists wasn’t an easy task for the judges, given the high calibre of entries.
The SONI Real Rugby Heroes award is a fantastic way to recognise volunteers’ achievements and to say thank you for all their hard work, commitment and devotion to their local club. We look forward to announcing the two category winners in May.”
