Ballymena football hero Billy ‘outstanding’ – Mayor

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, has congratulated Billy O’Flaherty MBE, a founding member of Carniny Amateur and Youth FC Senior Team Secretary, on winning a prestigious award for his contribution to football in the Ballymena area.
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Billy, who also helped set up the Allstars female football team and a veterans’ team at Carniny, won the McDonald’s IFA Grassroots Football People’s Award 2020.

The Ballymena man received the McDonald’s IFA Grassroots Football People’s Award recently during a virtual awards ceremony hosted by broadcaster Pete Snodden and McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador and former Northern Ireland hero Pat Jennings.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston said: “Billy’s contribution to football in his community has been simply outstanding, and I would like to send my congratulations on this very prestigious recognition.

Billy O'Flaherty received the McDonald's IFA Grassroots Football People's Award during a virtual awards ceremonyBilly O'Flaherty received the McDonald's IFA Grassroots Football People's Award during a virtual awards ceremony
Billy O'Flaherty received the McDonald's IFA Grassroots Football People's Award during a virtual awards ceremony

“He has held several key positions on and off the pitch, and has already been honoured with an MBE for his dedication to the community.

“This latest title is one that he is hugely deserving of, and I know the local community will share in this wonderful recognition of how much Billy gives back to the area he lives in.”

The Irish FA Grassroots Football Awards recognise the incredible work and commitment of football clubs and volunteers who give up their time and make a long-lasting impact on young people and communities across Northern Ireland.