Declan O’Connell from Mallow Special Olympics Kayak Group has been named Volunteer of the Year for 2025. The accolade was announced at the Canoeing Ireland Awards in the Mullingar Park Hotel last Saturday night.
Declan has transformed opportunities for athletes with additional needs through years of dedi-cated volunteering. He founded an inclusive kayaking club in Mallow, and he has proved an inspirational coach. He can be seen every week on the River Blackwater with his students who have developed into a formidable kayaking team.
Declan has also been a driving force in Special Olympics kayaking, including serving as Head Coach for Team Ireland at the World Games, where he helped athletes achieve unforgettable milestones. His passion, commitment and belief in inclusion make him an extraordinary volunteer and a true champion for others. Congratulations to Declan on his well-deserved national recognition.