Donal Kelleher, a native of Ballyphehane and founder of the Kilreen Celtic soccer club, is the latest winner of the Cork International Hotel Community Spirit Awards.

Having founded Kilreen Celtic in 1971, Donal’s idea to start the club has made a huge contribution to the young people of the area over the years.

Donal is also the longest serving member of the Cork Schoolboys League Committee, with nearly 40 years to his name. During this time, Donal fulfilled various roles such as coaching and managing multiple Cork Kennedy Cup squads, as well as managing numerous Kilreen Celtic sides.

Fuelled by the spirit of his community in Ballyphehane, Donal has served on the committee of Ballyphehane Community Association and was also centrally involved in Ballyphehane Meals on Wheels.

General Manager of the Cork International Hotel, Eoghan Murphy said; “Donal Kelleher is truly a worthy recipient of the award, as it has been designed to honour people who very generously give their time and commitment to helping others in their local community. Donal’s contributions to his community have been recognized by those who have spent time with him simply because of the dedication and commitment he displays every day, by going above and beyond to improve the lives of those living in his local area. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Donal for his efforts and to thank those who nominated him for the award.”

The Cork International Hotel Community Spirit Awards are sponsored by The Carrigdhoun Newspaper and Gerald McCarthy Giftware.

Nominations are now open for next month's awards here.

Visit Cork International Hotel’s website