Douglas stalwart Pat Harrington honoured with Volunteer of the Year award

Recently the Camogie Association held their Media, Volunteer and Referee Awards night at Croke Park.

As well as the media awards the association honoured volunteers from all counties and referees who were involved in their All-Ireland finals.

Two Cork referees were honoured on the night, with Cathal McAllister and Colm Vaughan receiving their medals.

Vaughan was honoured for refereeing the U23 B All-Ireland championship final and the Electric Ireland Minor C final. McAllister, who wasn’t present on the night, was honoured for refereeing the Electric Ireland Minor A Shield final.

CORNERSTONE

As well as the referees, 29 volunteers were also honoured on the night and among them was Pat Harrington, Douglas Camogie Club. Pat has been involved in the club for many years and has helped to coach thousands of young players, girls and boys, over that time.

He has been a cornerstone of the club since he retired from playing and continues to give of his time week after week, year after year, to play his part in training the players of the future.

In a statement on social media the club said: “Huge congratulations to Pat Harrington on his Volunteer of the year award for Cork Camogie at Croke Park at the weekend.

“Pat has been a cornerstone of both our Camogie section and the club in general. To say this award is deserved is an understatement. Massive congratulations Pat.”

Meanwhile Centra, Ireland’s leading convenience retailer, has announced a new partnership with the Camogie Association which will see Centra become the new title sponsor of the Centra Camogie Leagues.

In a statement they said: “As the Camogie Leagues celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2026, Centra’s commitment as title sponsor will bring increased investment into the sport from elite to grassroots and boost visibility through their network of 500 stores nationwide and promotional activities.

“Tipperary, winners of the first ever League in 1976, will look to repeat that success in a highly competitive division 1A. Current title holders, Cork are the most decorated county with 17 League titles to their name.”

Speaking at the announcement, Rita Kirwan, marketing director at Musgrave, welcomed the new partnership with the Camogie Association.

“Camogie is a unique Irish sport with incredibly dedicated players, passionate supporters and a deep connection to communities all over the country.

“The standard is truly elite, with speed, skill and intensity on display at every level. We’ve been proudly linked to hurling for years, but one important piece was missing – a strong, visible connection to the women’s game.”