From grassroots to glory: Nominate your sporting stars for Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards 2026

Nominations for the prestigious Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards 2026 will open in early January, offering residents the chance to celebrate the Borough’s outstanding sporting stars, teams, coaches and volunteers.

Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the annual awards shine a spotlight on those who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, dedication and service across the local sporting landscape — from grassroots participation to elite performance.

The awards recognise not only success on the field, court or track, but also the commitment of those who quietly give their time behind the scenes. Coaches, managers and volunteers who dedicate themselves day in and day out to supporting others are central to the celebration.

Residents are encouraged to think about the individuals who have made a real difference — whether through inspiring others, excelling in their chosen sport, helping to build confidence in young people, or devoting countless hours to supporting a local club.

Nominations will open on Monday 5 January and close at noon on Monday 19 January.

Award Categories

The 2026 awards will recognise excellence across a wide range of categories:

• Junior Sportsperson of the Year

• School Sporting Performance

• Sportsperson/Team with a Disability

• Manager/Coach of the Year

• Community Participation

• Team of the Year

• Services to Sport

• Sportsperson of the Year

In addition, two Balon Bursaries will be awarded to help give emerging sporting talent a valuable boost at a crucial stage of their development.

Mayor Encourages Community Nominations

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:

“I am delighted to launch the Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards 2026 and nominations will soon be open.

“Sport is so important in such a wide range of ways - from promoting healthy lifestyles, to bringing the community together, and inspiring our young people.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to recognise the talent and dedication of our local athletes, teams, coaches and volunteers.

“We encourage everyone to help us celebrate those who have made significant sporting contributions to our Borough’s sports community – get thinking as to who you are going to nominate!”

The Sports Awards are kindly sponsored by the local business community, reflecting the strong partnership between sport, volunteers and enterprise across the Borough.

The shortlisted nominees will be announced in early February, ahead of the awards ceremony later in the year.