Pat Finnerty picks up Sports Award 2025

Huge congratulations to Pat Finnerty on receiving the Federation of Irish Sport Volunteer in Sport Award 2025 for Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown.

Pat was nominated by Cabinteely Athletic Club, supported by us, in recognition of the enormous contribution he has made to sport and community life in and around Kilbogget Park over many decades.

Known affectionately by many as “Mr. Cabinteely,” Pat has been involved in local sport for more than four decades and has played a pivotal role in shaping the sporting landscape in the area. Through roles including coach, mentor, organiser, and volunteer, he has helped generations of young players discover their love of sport.

Pat first became involved with Cabinteely FC when his son joined the club in the early 1980s, and from there he never looked back – coaching teams, supporting youth development, and helping to build the pathways that allowed players to progress from grassroots football all the way to the club’s League of Ireland partner side, Bray Wanderers FC.

He was instrumental in developing initiatives that ensured football was accessible to everyone, including starting programmes for children with additional needs and supporting the club’s Football for All work in partnership with the FAI and local organisations.

Pat also helped introduce women’s football in Cabinteely in the early 2000s, giving many girls their first opportunity to play the game locally and contributing to the strong female pathway that exists today.

Beyond football, Pat’s passion for sport and community extends across Kilbogget Park. He played a key role in the rebirth of Cabinteely Athletic Club and has been involved in developing and supporting a wide range of sports locally, even helping to establish Cabinteely Cricket Club and promote new sporting opportunities within the community.

His contribution goes far beyond the pitches. Pat has been deeply involved in community initiatives and events in Kilbogget Park, such as the #GOALMile, #InternationalFest, and other local activities that bring people together through sport.

This award is a fitting recognition of decades of tireless volunteering, dedication, and leadership. Pat’s work has helped create opportunities for thousands of young people and families across Cabinteely and the wider community.

Congratulations Pat – and thank you for everything you have done for sport and community in Kilbogget Park.

Well done from all at Cabo.