The Oisín McGrath Foundation continues to make a significant difference in the lives of young athletes, enabling them to overcome financial barriers and pursue excellence in sport. Established in memory of Oisín McGrath from Belcoo, the Foundation honours his passion, energy, and love for sport by providing vital funding to help others follow their dreams.
Administered by the Fermanagh Trust, the Foundation’s most recent round of grants has supported a wide range of promising athletes and community sports initiatives. Among the latest recipients is Max Jones, who will use his award to support travel and registration fees for motocross competitions across Ireland and Europe. Austin Cassidy, an ambitious young rower, received support for travel and accommodation, as well as personalised nutrition and recovery costs as he prepares for the Irish Junior Rowing Team trials.
Representatives from Jets Cheerleading, Oisin’s parents Nigel and Sharon McGrath, Sarah Wilson, Dale Fisher and Emily Hanna Splitz Gymnastics
Sailor Ben McCaldin will benefit from funding to attend a number of local and national sailing events, while gymnasts Sarah Wilson, Emily Hanna and Dale Fisher have each received support to compete in the Inter-Regional Gymnastics Championships in Southampton. Fellow athletes Luke Bailey and Naomi Robinson are also preparing for Irish Junior Rowing Team trials, with Naomi eyeing selection for international events such as the Home International Regatta, Coupe de la Jeunesse and the U19 World Championships.
Eva Johnston, another accomplished rower, will use her grant to support a packed season including the Skibbereen Regatta, National Schools Regatta, Henley Women’s Regatta, Henley Royal Regatta and the Irish Championships. Meanwhile, the Jets Cheerleading team has secured funding to purchase new competition kits, travel to events, and enhance training in preparation for the World Summit Championships in Florida in 2026.
Naomi Robinson, Eva Johnston, Oisin’s parents Nigel and Sharon McGrath, Luke Bailey and Austin Cassidy
Swimmer Hannah Lynch received an award to cover costs for monthly training with Enniskillen Lakelanders, summer training camps, and pool access at regional centres such as Birmingham. Young rugby players Jake Irwin and Alfie Lucy will also benefit, with Jake receiving support for travel to Belfast for Ulster Provincial Talent Squad training, and Alfie attending a spring athletic development programme with Ulster Rugby several times a week.
Each of these recipients reflects the ethos of the Oisín McGrath Foundation, determination, potential, and a love of sport. Oisín’s mum Sharon said, “Every year we are 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.”
Alfie Lucy, Hannah Lynch, Oisin’s parents Nigel and Sharon McGrath, Ben McCaldin, Jake Irwin and Max Jones
With the next funding round not due to open until early 2026, the Foundation remains focused on championing those it supports and celebrating the sporting journeys already underway thanks to its grants. For more about the Oisín McGrath Foundation CLICK HERE or email secretary@fermanaghtrust.org.