The Oisín McGrath Foundation has reopened for applications, offering vital financial support to young people across Fermanagh and the surrounding area who are striving to achieve their potential in sport.
Established in memory of Oisín McGrath from Belcoo, the Foundation celebrates Oisín’s passion, energy and love of sport by helping young athletes and sports groups overcome financial barriers that may prevent them from pursuing their goals. The Foundation is administered by The Fermanagh Trust.
The Foundation provides financial support to young people who demonstrate exceptional commitment and/or ability in the world of sport but may be held back by their financial situation from pursuing their goals.
In its most recent funding round, the Foundation supported a wide range of talented young athletes and sporting initiatives across a variety of disciplines. Past recipients included motocross rider Max Jones, rowers Austin Cassidy, Luke Bailey, Naomi Robinson and Eva Johnston, sailor Ben McCaldin, gymnasts Sarah Wilson, Emily Hanna and Dale Fisher, swimmer Hannah Lynch, and rugby players Jake Irwin and Alfie Lucy.
Support was also awarded to the Jets Cheerleading team, helping the group prepare for major competitions and future international events.
Motocross rider Max Jones, previous recipient of a bursary award from the Oisín McGrath Foundation
These young people and teams represent the diversity of sports supported by the Foundation and highlight the positive impact that targeted financial assistance can have in helping young athletes take the next step in their sporting journeys.
Sharon McGrath, Oisín’s mum, said: “We are always so inspired by the young people who apply. It’s a privilege to see Oisín’s legacy live on through their achievements, and to know that these awards are helping in a very real and practical way.”
The Fund is open to applications from both organisations and individuals (between 11 and 18 years of age and be resident in Fermanagh or the surrounding area) and can provide support for a range of sporting needs, including bursaries to help young people develop their sporting potential, funding for activities and events that build skills and ability, and, in exceptional circumstances, assistance towards equipment costs to help sports organisations expand their activities and increase participation.
The closing date for applications is Friday 27 March 2026. For further information about the Oisín McGrath Foundation and how to apply, CLICK HERE or email secretary@fermanaghtrust.org.