A founding member of Abbeyleix Hockey club has been named as the Laois Volunteer of the Year for 2022.
The Volunteers in Sport Awards celebrate the contributions of the band of volunteers across the country who give their time to Irish sport and physical activity every year.
The winner of the award for Laois is Marie Thompson of Abbeyleix Hockey Club, who is a founding member and has been volunteering since it was founded in 2005.
Marie has held a huge range of roles at the club such as Chair, Secretary, PRO and Children’s Officer while also coaching all different ages and abilities.
The club now has over 100 members and with a real focus on team spirit, Marie has ensured that inclusion is at the forefront of everything.
In recent years, the club has continued to develop and Marie now coaches the youngest age group ensuring that they always enjoy it and have fun.
Marie is not one to shy away from a job and helps the club in whatever way she can.
Through her continuous efforts, Marie has encouraged past players to come back and volunteer, creating a strong foundation at the club. Marie is the epitome of what it means to be a volunteer.
Minister of State with responsibility for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne TD is the special guest speaker at the awards, which will take place next week on March 22 at The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown and hosted by sports broadcaster Gráinne McElwain.
The event will see volunteers from all 32 counties honoured for their amazing dedication to volunteering across a variety of different sports.
Guests will also include key stakeholders from the sector. The overall Outstanding Achievement Award will be revealed on the day.
