Seven grants awarded from the Oisín McGrath Foundation

Four local sporting organisations and three talents individuals have received funding awards from the Oisín McGrath Foundation. The Foundation was formed in memory of 13 year old Oisín McGrath from Belcoo and is inspired by Oisín’s life and formed both to keep his spirit alive and to inspire others through his memory, in particular youth sports development.

Administered by the Fermanagh Trust, the Oisín McGrath Foundation provides financial support to young people who demonstrate exceptional commitment and/ or ability to the world of sport but may be held back by their financial situation from pursing their goals.

 

Noamh Aodhan GAC based in Derrylin enable boys and girls to play hurling that would otherwise not be offered by local clubs. Having started in 2018, they now have over 100 members and expect to grow further this year. With high demand for training and matches the club have been awarded a grant to purchase new equipment including helmets.

Enniskillen Royal Boat Club is an all-inclusive, cross community junior rowing club with 160 members age 11-18. Due to the large increase in members the club are hoping to purchase another safety boat to ensure that the young rowers are safe when they are on the water, which the Oisín McGrath Foundation are pleased to have made a contribution to.

Enniskillen Gaels bring Gaelic football, hurling and cultural activities to both young and old in the local community. They have been working hard to develop their youth structures over the last number of years and strive to encourage young people to enjoy sport and develop confidence. Their funding from the Foundation will allow them purchase much needed equipment including first aid kits and footballs.

Enniskillen Rugby Club, the only Rugby club in Fermanagh, is hoping to expand and make the team sport more accessible. They have developed at inter-school tournament involving a number of local post-primary schools. Enabling a competitive experience and hopefully develop a love for the game while fostering friendships through participation. This grant from the Foundation will go towards new equipment as well a trophy for their tournament.

17 year old Darragh Love has been selected by Wrestling NI to attend Wrestling Squad in England with the aim of participating in the Commonwealth Games in 2022.  His grant will assist with travelling to England.

Frank Buchannon is a multi-discipline athlete who competes with Enniskillen Lakelanders and Enniskillen Running club.  The 14 year old aims to train for a triathlon and will use his grant to purchase a road bike for cross training.

16 year old Tyler Neary plays golf for Lough Erne golf resort and Castlehume, and hopes to represent the men’s interclub this year.  In 2019 the squad won the Ulster Fred Daly title and came 3rd in the All Ireland final.  To improve his handicap and performance he will use his grant to purchase new equipment.

Oisín’s mum Sharon McGrath commented “The Foundation brings opportunity to others alongside celebrating Oisín’s life and his love and commitment to sport. We are pleased to be able to make these grant awards to this wonderful range of talented and committed organisations and individuals. It is our hope that in the future we can support even more young people and groups, assisting them in their sports development in memory of Oisín.”

Applicants to the Oisín McGrath Foundation must be between 11 and 18 years of age and residents in Fermanagh or the surrounding area. The Fund will open again later in the year / E: gemma@fermanaghtrust.org / Tel: 028 66 320 210