Six Derry youth sport clubs secure crucial funding boost from Fibrus

Full Fibre broadband provider, Fibrus, has announced the 52 recipients of its 2026 Play it Forward fund, including six children’s sports clubs based in CountyDerry.

This year, £50,000 was allocated across Fibrus’ broadband network in Northern Ireland and Cumbria, with successful grassroot clubs receiving a cash injection of up to £1,000 in support of new equipment, kits, fees or training.

Since launching the Play it Forward Fund in 2023, Fibrus has invested more than £200,000 across Northern Ireland and Cumbria through the fund. As a Full Fibre broadband provider whose network is strongly concentrated within rural communities, Fibrus created the Play it Forward fund after seeing first-hand the positive impact local sports clubs have on young people’s wellbeing, helping them switch off from everyday life, build confidence, develop new skills, form lasting friendships and strengthen community connections.

Supporting a wide variety of activities from boxing to rowing, six local sports clubs in Co. Derry have been allocated a share of the £50,000 pot, including Inspire Dance & Drama, Claudy Karate Club, Na Magha Doire, St Patrick’s Camogie Club, Culmore Youth FC and Phoenix Athletic FC.

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Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, said: “We’re delighted to support another fantastic group of sports clubs through this year’s Play it Forward fund. The quality and diversity of applications from across Co. Derry and beyond was outstanding, making the judging process incredibly difficult.

“With demand for the fund continuing to grow year after year, the vital role local sports clubs play in their communities has never been clearer. We’re proud that the Fibrus Play it Forward Fund can help these organisations continue their important work, creating opportunities and making a positive difference to the lives of young people across the region.”