"I do it because I believe in the athletes and in everything they can achieve"

Westmeath Independent Community & Sports Awards in association with Westmeath County Council

Volunteer of the Year finalist: Maeve Harkins

When she, along with others, founded the Athlone Special Olympics Club Maeve Harkins had little idea it was the beginning of a chapter that would become a weekly feature in her life.

Twenty-three-years later, she is still as keen to see her athletes grow, learn, and go places, as she was at the outset.

The club, which operates from Drum Community Centre, gives children and adults with intellectual disabilities from the Midlands a chance to take up sports like basketball, athletics, bocce, bowling and floorball. Members regularly compete at regional and national levels, including representation on Team Connacht.

For Maeve, the association was personal. She founded the club to create a place for her daughter Aideen, and others, that would nurture their sporting talent. She began as a volunteer, laid foundations of the club, and has worked in various capacities including coach, referee, treasurer, vetting officer, fundraising officer and more.

Her dedication and commitment paid off when her daughter was selected to be part of Team Ireland 2003 World Games held in Dublin. "This was the most incredible experience for our family and something we will always be proud of. We made memories that will last a lifetime. Being part of Aideen's journey has given Special Olympics an even deeper meaning in my life," said Maeve, whose daughter won medals in basketball and floorball, at the World Summer Games in Berlin.

With the success that Aideen charted, Maeve could have withdrawn from volunteering. She continued, turning up week after week for 23 years and running, for her dream wasn't for Aideen alone. It was for Sarah Kilmartin, Tara Phelan, and every single member who trains at the club.

Maeve explained: "Over the years I have seen many athletes achieve things that go far further than a medal or sports result.

Watching an athlete cross the finishing line, hearing the final whistle in a heart-stopping match is a feeling that can’t be described."

While she is honoured to be nominated, Maeve said that she didn't begin the journey for recognition. "I do it because I believe in the athletes and in everything they can achieve when given the opportunity, encouragement and support. I also see it as recognition for everyone who gives their time to make our club what it is today."

The Volunteer of the Year finalists are Shay Hamilton, Clare Lennon and Maeve Harkins

The Volunteer of the Year Award is sponsored by Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors