Derry Credit Union - Contribution to Sport Award winner

Sophie Parlour: winner

Athletics champion Sophie Parlour has won over a dozen titles in a range of competitions across Ireland. She was nominated by Thornhill College teacher Mr McEldowney for both her outstanding commitment, prestigious list of achievements and her resilience.

In 2022 alone, Sophie won Gold, Silver and Bronze medals at Irish National Juvenile Championships T and F; NI and Ulster Age Groups T and F, Ulster Schools, Belfast International Mary Peter’s Meeting, Irish Schools T and F, and Irish Milers Belfast Team. She is currently part of the Irish National U20 100m Relay Squad.

Already in 2023, Sophie has gathered valuable experience as she was selected to run in both 'A' heats at the Athletics Track and Field Live event at Sports Ireland Indoor Arena.

At just 17 years of age, Sophie has competed against Irish Senior Internationals.

This invaluable experience has inspired her to reach the level of these competitors.

As testament to Sophie’s resilience and determination, Mr McEldowney writes that these performances were even more significant because they were achieved in 2022 following recovery from a stress fracture in her fibula in 2021 which hampered her pre-season training.

Through her commitment, discipline, determination and resilience, Sophie is a role model for others who aspire to be the best in their chosen field.

David Stewart: Winner

David is a committed football fan. His nominator, St Brigid’s College teacher Ms Gallagher writes ‘To say that David loves football would be an understatement. He trains six days a week, no matter the weather, and has a gruelling fitness regimen. David has recently signed for the Derry City Under 17s team and has been making great strides at the Brandywell.’

When David isn’t training with Derry City, he is working with the Keeper Lit Goalkeeping Academy, where he volunteers to assist with other training groups. David’s generosity with younger goalkeepers is notable and he is a patient and skilled assistant to the Academy Staff.

David is no stranger to setbacks. During his debut match for Finn Harps last year, he suffered a serious incident which resulted in a broken eye socket. When the doctor told David that he could not play football for three weeks, he was heartbroken. The first day he was cleared to play, David was back on the pitch.

His resilience and fortitude are notable; when David does not succeed, he reflects and comes back stronger every time. He has played for a number of teams and has worked hard to develop his skills both on and off the pitch.

David’s ultimate ambition is to be a professional goalkeeper, yet he is also a diligent student and puts great effort into his academic studies.

As a result, David is an exceptional role model for younger pupils. His next challenge is a trial with the Steven Gerrard Academy, which he will prepare for with his usual hardworking attitude and relentless determination.

Ms Gallagher writes, ‘Over the past five years, it has been wonderful to see David blossom from the shy, football loving child he was when he arrived at St Brigid’s College to the confident sportsman who is so motivated to achieve his goals. David would be a most worthy recipient of this award.’

Faye Leonard: Runner-up

Karate enthusiast and champion Faye is a Year 11 pupil at St Cecilia’s College and member of North West Karate Club. Faye took up Karate at the age of 7.

Her ability to learn, adapt and improve led to her becoming a champion at a range of competitions. She was nominated by teacher St Cecilia’s College teacher Ms Thompson for her dedication and the contribution she makes to her sport.

Faye is a dedicated sportswoman who sets clear goals, participates in intense club training sessions four times a week, travels to Limavady and Lisburn for additional training, and competes for the Republic of Ireland.

Ms Thompson believes Faye is an excellent role model for others who strive to be their best in sport.

She writes, ‘Her technique of always improving is a result of being a keen learner and always striving to perfect basic techniques leading to more advanced techniques. She has achieved fantastic results in the past few years and her goal is to reach the highest level possible’.

Kaci Deery – runner-up

Kaci Deery was nominated by St Cecilia’s teacher Ms Thompson for her dedication to football and her achievements in the sport. Kaci is a member of Sean Dolans u17 Gaelic team and was recently selected for the u20 Derry panel, which, Ms Thompson says, is ‘a fantastic achievement considering she has another two years in that age group!’

Since the age of 10, Kaci has been dedicated to sport. She trains five days a week, travelling to Owenbeg for two of the weekly sessions to train with the Derry squad. She never misses a session.

As a footballer, she has won many titles and achievements over the years. Her nominator says, ‘she is unstoppable on the pitch. As a full forward she can read the game well and outwit her opponents as well as score numerous points and goals each match. She is a force to be reckoned with.’

Ms Thompson writes that aside from all her sporting accomplishments and abilities, Kaci is a born leader. She is hardworking, determined, and caring.

Kaci helps younger school team members. For example, when new year 8 pupils attend after school Gaelic, Kaci helps them settle in, learns their names, and encourages them at each session. She also helps with the nursery at her club Sean Dolans.