Kathleen McNamara

Killanena Camogie Club, Caher, Co. Clare

Kathleen is chairperson of Killanena Camogie Club, though the title hardly sums up what she actually does. She is a gentle figurehead, liked and respected by players, club officers, and parents alike. Kathleen began her association with this small parish entity as a player, then continued as its driving force and its mother figure once her playing days were over. She runs the club with breathtaking efficiency, tempered by her ability to make every single member feel that they are an important and valued part of the club. Her sunny disposition never darkens, and problems are tackled with talent and sensitivity. She truly personifies what an excellent volunteer should be, as she tirelessly gives of her time, despite having both a job outside the home and a family of her own. She is never too busy to deal with club business or an individual player’s personal concerns. While the club is primarily a sports club, it is not merely the clash of the ash that matters; it also serves an important social function, acting as a cohesive force within the community where teenagers are left without many viable social outlets. Small rural parishes in Ireland are under threat in so many ways, yet here in Killanena we are blessed to have a volunteer, a true leader, like her. In times of uncertainty and change it is people like her who keep us all going, always striving to make things better, giving our young women a sense of belonging, keeping them physically active and fit, underlining the importance of friendship, team spirit and community values.

“A special thanks to all my fellow members and officers for their contributions to the club over the years. It is an honour to be nominated for this award and I am proud to represent Killanena Camogie Club at such a prestigious event.” – Kathleen

Photograph by Maureen McDonnell