Dr Jude Feehan – 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.
Neal Hickey, Partnerships Manager with Sport Ireland, made two presentations to Dr Feehan in recognition of his service.
In his address to the AGM, Dr Feehan expressed pride in his years of service while noting his sadness at stepping down. He highlighted his commitment throughout his tenure and paid tribute to the athletes, coaches and volunteers who are the backbone of sport in Offaly. He concluded by thanking all involved and noted that he would continue to follow the Partnership’s progress with great interest.

Seán Campbell
A Donegal native now residing in Offaly, Seán Campbell served on both the Management and Executive Committees for almost ten years. A strong advocate for children’s sport, 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.

Van Gillessen
Van Gillessen has been a passionate promoter of water sports, particularly canoeing and kayaking. He 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.

Breege Loftus
Breege Loftus is a strong advocate for inclusive, community-based sport, particularly social basketball for adults at both local and national level. She 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
A committed member of Tullamore Golf Club, Eileen O’Neill Magner has 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.

Carol Scott
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.

In a comprehensive progress report to the AGM, Eamonn Henry, Coordinator of Offaly Sports Partnership, outlined 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.

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 Committee, 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 here 

ENDS

For further information please contact communications@offalycoco.ie