Billy’s a finalist in Grassroots Football People’s Award

Billy O’Flaherty MBE and William Shanks from Belfast have both been shortlisted for the People’s Award, which recognises the outstanding contribution made by an individual to football in their local community and beyond. Both finalists have dedicated over four decades’ service to grassroots football in Northern Ireland.

The annual 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 NI. Due to Covid-19 the 2020 awards gala will instead be held virtually this month.

Billy O’Flaherty MBE is a founding member of Carniny Amateur and Youth Football Club in Ballymena and is widely regarded as a football stalwart in the Mid-Antrim area. He was awarded an MBE for his work in the local community and has had many responsibilities on and off the football pitch – from secretary and committee member to coach.

He said: “Local football has been one of the best tools for cross-community relations in Northern Ireland and we must not underestimate that. Football is often the common denominator that brings people from all walks of life together, which has helped us take great strides over the years towards becoming a more inclusive society.”

Billy was also a founding member of the Allstars female football team in Ballymena and has recently played a key role in setting up a veterans team at Carniny in the Co Antrim town.

Online voting for the People’s Award 2020 has now opened at https://www.irishfa.com/grassrootsfootballawards.