AC Awards Finalist Feature – Tony Devine

Tony Devine is a finalist in the Community Champion category of the Cork Sports Partnership Active Community Awards 2024. Winners revealed on 29th November 2024. Further details on the Awards and ceremony below.

Tony Devine: Bringing Lacrosse to Life in Cork        

Tony Devine, a former Irish International Lacrosse player, is a passionate advocate for the sport, dedicating countless hours to its development in Cork. His voluntary work has been pivotal in introducing lacrosse to new audiences, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a love for the game across the local community. 

Tony’s journey in Cork lacrosse began as he worked tirelessly to revive the sport in the region. From organizing taster sessions to coaching practices, he ensures people of all ages and abilities can experience lacrosse. His dedication doesn’t stop there—Tony secures equipment donations from Ireland Lacrosse and U.S. universities, sets up fields for practice, and manages the sport’s promotion on social media and local outlets. Thanks to his efforts, fledgling groups in areas like Limerick, Carrigtwohill, and Kinsale have also gained momentum, expanding the sport’s reach in Munster. 

The physical benefits of regular lacrosse sessions are significant for participants. Lacrosse is a high-energy sport that promotes cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and agility. It also provides an excellent full-body workout, helping players improve endurance and build strength. Beyond the physical perks, lacrosse fosters teamwork, resilience, and discipline—essential life skills that translate off the field. 

Tony’s work also emphasizes the social benefits of playing lacrosse. Whether participants join to develop their skills, pursue competitive goals, or simply have fun, the inclusive environment Tony creates ensures everyone feels welcome. By bringing people together for practices and games, lacrosse becomes a conduit for building friendships and strengthening community ties. 

Volunteers like Tony play an invaluable role in promoting physical activity and sport within local communities. His selfless dedication helps create opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise exist, enabling people to discover and enjoy new sports. His efforts showcase the impact one person can have in making a difference—reigniting enthusiasm for lacrosse in Cork after the pandemic and linking the region to the national setup. 

Tony Devine’s contributions to lacrosse in Cork are a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. By inspiring others to get active, stay connected, and embrace the joy of sport, he continues to leave a lasting legacy in the community. 

Active Community Campaign Category:

This award is to acknowledge an individual’s work in the development and or promotion of locally led physical activity and community sports programmes.

The award recognises the individual who has made a significant impact on improving local health and wellbeing through sport, exercise or physical activity opportunities and initatives in a voluntary capacity.

It recognizes individuals’ efforts in leading and activating opportunities for people to be active across sport, exercise and physical activity. Without this individual, community lead initiatives would not be possible. 

Live Awards Ceremony:

Join us at 7 pm on Friday, 29th November, as we reveal this year’s Active Community Awards winners across our categories of Group, Campaign, Inclusion and Champion.