MTU Celebrates Sporting Excellence at Annual Sports Awards 

Munster Technological University (MTU) proudly hosted its annual Sports Awards recently in the MTU Tourism & Hospitality Building, celebrating the outstanding achievements, dedication, and commitment of its student athletes and sports clubs.

The evening brought together students, staff, and distinguished guests to recognise excellence across a wide range of sporting disciplines. 

The event highlighted not only athletic performance but also leadership, teamwork, and contribution to campus life.

The ceremony featured inspiring contributions from guest speakers Annie Walsh, former All-Ireland winning Cork ladies footballer, and Dr Pio Fenton, MTU Vice President of People & Culture. 

Both speakers reflected on the importance of resilience, community, and personal development through sport, offering valuable insights to the student audience.

"At MTU we are proud to support the holistic development of our students. 

"Acknowledging sporting excellence amongst those who have demonstrated their determination, grit and skill is an important aspect of how we do this. 

"We are very proud to be associated with these wonderful sports people."

A special highlight of the evening was the speech from the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, who commended MTU’s continued investment in sport and its role in fostering both elite performance and inclusive participation.

“On behalf of the people of Cork, I am delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements recognised through the MTU Sports Awards. 

"These awards shine a light on the dedication, discipline, and community spirit that define sport across our city and county. 

"The nominees here tonight are not only exceptional athletes but inspiring ambassadors for the university, demonstrating the very best of what we can achieve through passion, dedication and perseverance. 

"I extend my warmest congratulations to all nominees and winners, and I commend MTU for its continued commitment to supporting and promoting sporting excellence.” 

The event was expertly hosted by Student Services Officer Keith Ricken, whose engaging and energetic delivery ensured an enjoyable and memorable evening for all in attendance.

Senior Award Winners on the night were: Grainne Cronin (Kayaking), Dylan Cooper (Rugby), James Patrick Irwin (Volleyball), Blaithin O’ Flynn (Rugby), James Ruane (Badminton), Rebecca O’ Sullivan (Rugby/AFL), Sarah Lucy (Equestrian), Ross Musgrave (MMA), David O’Donoghue (Tae Kwon Do), Aoife McGrath (Rowing), Eoin O’ Neill (AFL), Jake Sawani (Motor Racing), Ronan Walsh (Hurling), Gabriella Bowen (Athletics), Alan Walsh (Football & Hurling), Pat Fennell (Athletics), Jack Mulcahy (Hurling) Fresher of the Year: Oisin Walsh (Hurling) Supreme Achievement: Rory O’ Shea (Motor Racing) Sports Person of the Year: Aoife O’ Sullivan (Athletics).

Team awards were given to: MTU Athletics Club, MTU Hurling Club & MTU Volleyball Club.

The MTU Sports Awards continue to be a cornerstone event in the university calendar, celebrating not just victories on the field but the spirit, determination, and sportsmanship that define MTU’s sporting community.