Aoife O’Sullivan named sports person of the year at MTU Cork awards

The event was hosted by Student Services Officer Keith Ricken while Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy also spoke to commend MTU’s continued investment in sport.

Wed, 29 Apr, 2026 - 15:52

Cian Locke

Munster Technological University recently hosted its annual Sports Awards to celebrate the outstanding achievements, dedication, and commitment of its student athletes and sports clubs.

The yearly event was created in order for MTU to bring together students, staff, and guests so that they can recognise excellence across a wide range of sporting disciplines, highlighting not only athletic performance but also leadership, teamwork, and contribution to campus life.

As for the awards themselves, Aoife O’Sullivan (Athletics) was named sports person of the year, the fresher of the year award went to Oisin Walsh (Hurling), Rory O’ Shea (Motor Racing) claimed supreme achievement and finally the team awards were given to MTU Athletics Club, MTU Hurling Club & MTU Volleyball Club.

As for the senior awards on the night, they were awarded to Grainne Cronin (Kayaking), Dylan Cooper (Rugby), James Patrick Irwin (Volleyball), Blaithin O’ Flynn (Rugby), James Ruane (Badminton), Rebecca O’ Sullivan (Rugby/AFL), Sarah Lucy (Equestrian), Ross Musgrave (MMA), David O’Donoghue (Tae Kwon Do), Aoife McGrath (Rowing), Eoin O’ Neill (AFL), Jake Sawani (Motor Racing), Ronan Walsh (Hurling), Gabriella Bowen (Athletics), Alan Walsh (Football & Hurling), Pat Fennell (Athletics), Jack Mulcahy (Hurling).

The 17 individual awards at the MTU Cork Sports Awards. Pic: MTU Cork

The ceremony included contributions from guest speakers Annie Walsh, former All-Ireland winning Cork Ladies Footballer, and Dr Pio Fenton, MTU Vice President of People & Culture with both speakers offering insight to the student audience.

The event was hosted by Student Services Officer Keith Ricken while Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy also spoke to commend MTU’s continued investment in sport.

“On behalf of the people of Cork, I am delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements recognised through the MTU Sports Awards,” he said.

“These awards shine a light on the dedication, discipline, and community spirit that define sport across our city and county.

“The nominees here tonight are not only exceptional athletes but inspiring ambassadors for the university, demonstrating the very best of what we can achieve through passion, dedication and perseverance.

“I extend my warmest congratulations to all nominees and winners, and I commend MTU for its continued commitment to supporting and promoting sporting excellence.”