The impressive attendance of both candidates and selection members of the Canon Hayes Sports Awards was just one indication of the growing reputation these awards carry.
Brian Kerr, who continues to bring unprecedented success to youth soccer in Ireland, took time out of his busy schedule to join Brian Corcoran as one of the candidates for the National Award. Also in the running for the award with Kerr and Corcoran was Ciaran McDonagh, the long-jumper from Meath, who this summer became the first Irishman to clear eight metres. McDonagh also reached the final of the World Athletics Championships in Seville. The three each received a small trophy for their nominations.
For the County Award, Meadhbh Stokes of the Tipperary camogie team was chosen over Bansha soccer player, Michael Grace and racketball star, Joan Kennedy from Nenagh.
There were also nominations for Paula Dempsey, a gymnast from Cahir, and tennis player Clodagh McMorrow from Tipperary town for the Local Award, but l Micheal Grace, the highly promising hammer-thrower from Oola, took the honours.
The full selection panel for the National Award were Malachy Logan (sports editor, The Irish Times), Mick Doyle (former Irish rugby coach), Noel O'Reilly (Irish Youths soccer coach), Eamonn Coghlan (former World champion athlete), Billy George (chief sports-writer, The Examiner), and Liz Howard (press officer, Tipperary GAA).
