Dara McGuinness with his Young Sportsperson of the Year award.

Soccer star chosen as Young Sportsperson of the Year

Dara McGuinness was chosen as the Young Sportsperson of the Year in the 2020 Westmeath Independent Sports Awards which were broadcast last night (Friday).

The Monksland youngster was selected on the Republic of Ireland under-16 soccer squad early last year.

He made his debut in the Aegean Cup in Turkey against Tanzania and the talented striker scored two goals in the 4-0 win over Kosovo. Dara also started for Paul Osam's side in the narrow defeat against tournament hosts Turkey.

Dara began his football career at a young age with St Joseph's FC in Athlone, and he represented the ADSL in the Kennedy Cup, before moving on to Belvedere. He then joined St Patrick's Athletic and is now with Shamrock Rovers.

Another milestone for Dara last season was making his League of Ireland debut when playing for Shamrock Rovers in the First Division.

A son of Helen and Mark McGuinness, Dara is a past-pupil of Cloonakilla NS and he has two brothers, Cian and Shay. Dara is now a fifth year student at Coláiste Chiaráin in Summerhill, Athlone.

The Westmeath Independent Sports Awards were held in a virtual format due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

The event was supported by the sponsorship of a number of local businesses. The Westmeath Independent is very grateful to the loyal support of Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors, Action Physio, Baysports and the Shamrock Lodge Hotel.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Click HERE to see Dara McGuinness and the other award winners being interviewed.