From Grassroots to Great Impact: Seminar Showcases Sport’s Role in Community Health

Over 60 people attended a thought-provoking seminar hosted by the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, at Dromore Sports Complex on Thursday 6 November 2025. The event brought together communities from across the district to explore the vital role that local sports clubs play in promoting health and wellbeing.

The evening began with a welcome from Councillor McElduff, followed by a keynote address from Tyrone GAA Manager Malachy O’Rourke, who spoke on the importance of sports clubs in promoting community health and wellbeing, drawing on his experience at both club and intercounty level.

Kathy Owens from the Public Health Agency addressed the mental health challenges in sport and society, highlighting the importance of finding the right support and Fiona McGlue of Cancer Focus NI followed with a presentation on cancer prevention and the role of physical activity in reducing risk.

Leigh Collins from White Ribbon spoke powerfully about the role of sports in providing safe spaces and ending violence against women and girls and Louise Thompson, Irish FA referee and Women’s Referee Pathway Officer, shared her journey and perspectives on women in sport. Ed Mooney of Erne Community Cricket Club discussed how sport can help welcome and integrate new communities and finally Brian Simpson of 1Zero1  the speaker line-up with a talk on pathways to lifelong participation, with a particular focus on running and inclusive community engagement.

The seminar concluded with a panel Q&A session, followed by closing remarks from Councillor McElduff.

Speaking after the event, Councillor Barry McElduff said:

“We had a really fantastic and insightful evening at Dromore Sports Complex discussing ‘The Importance of Sports Clubs in Promoting Community Health and Wellbeing’. I want to thank everyone who came along and contributed to such a meaningful event.

It was an honour to welcome our keynote speaker Malachy O’Rourke, Tyrone GAA Manager, Kathy Owens, Public Health Agency and Fiona McGlue, Cancer Focus NI, Leigh Collins, White Ribbon, Louise Thompson, IFA, Ed Mooney, Erne Community Cricket Club and Brian Simpson 1Zero1.

A huge thank you as well to all our guest speakers, panel members, local clubs, and community representatives who shared their experiences and ideas. The passion and commitment to making sport accessible and inclusive for all was clear to see.

Sport has the power to bring people together, improve mental and physical health, and strengthen our communities – and last night was a brilliant reminder of that”

The evening began with information stalls and refreshments at 6.30pm, followed by guest speakers from 7.15pm, and concluded at 9.00pm. The Council extends its thanks to all who attended and contributed to the success of the event.