SPORTS AWARDS: Services to Sport - Arthur McClean (football)

After what he describes as an “average” playing career, he started his coaching career in local Boys’ Brigade football before moving on to youth football where he helped discover and develop future stars of the game including Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill, Steven Penney and Michael Hughes.

“Brendan was probably the most dedicated of all - he travelled up from Carnlough twice a week,” recalls Arthur.

“He probably would have made it as a player but he got a bad injury.”

Arthur is still involved in local football through his roles within Wakehurst FC and as chairman of the Ballymena Invitational Mini Soccer League.

Also short-listed: Paddy Johnston (bowls); Boyd Black (football).