Speaking at an event at Lissanoure Castle, Loughguile the Minister said: “Quite often our eyes are drawn to the big events of the sporting world but we must not forget the vital groundwork that is being done by local clubs and associations through promoting sport within communities and nourishing our future top athletes.”
The Minister was speaking during the first annual sports awards for both Ballymoney and Moyle Council areas.
The Minister continued: “Sport has a positive influence on our society, in providing a healthy outlet for our youth, and giving them a sense of achievement and self worth. In an age when there are concerns about childhood obesity we must encourage our children to participate in sport and to continue to be active throughout adulthood.”
The Minister also recognised the priceless contribution of coaches and volunteers who give hours of their time for the good of the community. Without such support and participation, a high percentage of clubs could not operate.
“It is the commitment of volunteers which makes the success of our athletes and local teams possible and enables our local communities to become involved and stay involved in sport,” he said.
The Minister also reflected on local sporting heroes such as Robert Dunlop and more recently Wendy Houvenaghel and Paddy Barnes.
The Minister said: “Every now and again a man or woman emerges as a sporting success who inspires others. Robert Dunlop was one such person and his legacy will be long remembered. More recently, Wendy Houvenaghel achieved a fantastic silver medal at Beijing and is now aiming for gold in London in 2012.
The Minister concluded: “One of the important issues in the development of my Department’s strategy for sport and physical recreation is improving the link between sport and the community and encouraging greater participation in sport, and these awards tonight demonstrate that North Antrim is a shining example of good practice.”
Notes to Editors:
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