Local Women Sports Awards: Entries now open for 2026
From grassroots heroes to elite performers, sportswomen and teams across the country are being invited to step into the spotlight as entries have opened for the localwomensport.com awards 2026.
The localwomensport.com awards 2026 will return to the Europa Hotel in Belfast on Saturday, April 11, 2026, with Shandon Hotel & Spa, Donegal announced as headline sponsor and Olympic gold medallist, Lady Mary Peters, as ambassador.
Now in their fourth year, the localwomensport.com awards 2026 celebrate female achievement at every level, from grassroots to elite, across football, hockey, camogie, LGFA, rugby, athletics, netball and many more disciplines.
Clubs, schools, coaches, parents and athletes themselves are encouraged to put forward the women and girls who are making a difference in sport.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, said: “The Local Women Sport Awards celebrate the achievements of women and girls across all levels of sport. These awards shine a light on the dedication, talent and passion that exist in our clubs and local communities right across Northern Ireland.
“Sport has the power to strengthen communities, build confidence and open doors, and it is vital that women and girls are supported and recognised for their contribution. I welcome the continued commitment of everyone involved, many of whom are volunteers, who champion female participation in sport, and I encourage people to put forward the athletes, coaches and teams who deserve to have their efforts acknowledged.”
The ceremony will once again be hosted by UTV sports personality, golfer and hockey player Ruth Gorman, promising a high-profile and uplifting night dedicated to women in sport.
Local Women magazine editor Kim Kelly said: “These awards exist to recognise the women and girls who so often go unnoticed despite giving everything to their sport. From international athletes to grassroots coaches, referees and volunteers, there are incredible stories in every community. If you know a sportswoman or a team who deserves recognition, put them forward. This night belongs to them.”
You can enter yourself, enter your team, or nominate someone you admire.
Whether it is a young player finding her feet, a volunteer holding a club together, a referee breaking barriers or a team punching above its weight, every story deserves to be told.
Full details on categories and how to enter are available at www.localwomensport.com