Boxing stalwart Garry McGillion honoured with national award
BOXING stalwart Garry McGillion has been recognised at a national awards ceremony hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport, in association with Sport Ireland.Thirty-six volunteers from across country were honoured for showing “exceptional dedication” to their clubs, their communities and Irish sport – with McGillion picking up both the Tyrone volunteer award and the overall outstanding achievement award following decades of unwavering service.His journey began as a young boxer with the Omagh Boys and Girls Club, but McGillion’s promising career in the ring was cut tragically short following the 1998 Omagh bombing. In the face of profound personal loss and trauma, he chose to channel his passion for the sport into lifelong voluntary service, becoming a cornerstone of the boxing community in Tyrone.Now head coach at Bishop Kelly BC, McGillion’s approach has always extended far beyond competition and medals as, through boxing, he helps young people build resilience, discipline, confidence and belief, often supporting those facing personal or social challenges.He also serves on both the Ulster Boxing Council and the central council of Boxing Ireland, to which he was elected in 2024, ensuring Ulster boxing continues to have a strong and trusted voice at national level.“To be recognised in this way is very humbling, because like so many people involved in boxing, I never got into the sport for awards or recognition – I got into it because boxing means something very special to me,” said McGillion.“Seeing young boxers grow in confidence, character, and belief – both inside and outside the ring – is the most rewarding part of being involved in this sport.”McGillion also paid tribute to his family for their constant support and acknowledged the influential figures who guided him throughout his journey, including first mentor Paddy McMahon, as well as respected boxing figures Eugene Duffy and the late Peter O’Donnell. He also highlighted the commitment of Patsy and Liz O’Hagan and the wider Bishop Kelly BC community in Eskra.“This award may have my name on it, but it truly belongs to everyone who believes in what boxing can do for young people and for our communities.”
