Killarney’s Peter Named Ballyseedy Volunteer Of The Month

12th February 2019 By The Editor

Killarney’s Peter Kelly (centre) was January’s Volunteer of the Month.

Killarney RFC's Peter Kelly was recognised for his efforts last season.

The Ballyseedy Home & Garden Volunteer of the Month for January was awarded to Killarney’s Club Captain, Peter Kelly, for his continued efforts towards developing the club’s playing squad and culture.

Having been elected as Club Captain last June, Peter set his sights on growing his squad of 20-30 players to over 40 members and succeeded with a mix of youth and senior players now currently involved.

Peter also put together an impressive pre-season programme for the club with experienced coaching staff and pre-season friendlies.

The loosehead prop also built up the backroom team, which culminated in the appointment of a head coach in Diarmuid O’Malley.

On receiving his award, Peter said: “I was shocked to receive the award and it’s a credit to the club and the players we have.

“I went through the list of every player registered with Killarney underage and got in contact, and before we knew it we had increased our numbers from 16/17 to over 30.

“We lost our first game of the season but won our next eight games and are into the promotional play-off.”

Peter’s dedication to the club and to rugby is epitomised by the fact that he is still playing age 49, while he also postponed his honeymoon until the end of the season following his recent wedding.

For the first time, Killarney RFC have started bridging the gap between the youth and senior set-ups with senior players helping out as required, all spearheaded by Peter.

“We help a lot with the underage section, the senior players go down to training and work with the U16s, U12s and U10s age-groups on a regular basis.

“What I love about rugby is that no matter what size or shape you are, there is a position for everyone.”

Ballyseedy Home & Garden Volunteer Recognition Programme

The Ballyseedy Home & Garden Volunteer Recognition Programme rewards people working hard behind the scenes within clubs and schools throughout the province.

The programme runs from October 2018 to March 2019 with a reward scheme consisting of individual ‘Volunteer of the Month’ awards.

Successful nominees who meet a set criteria will be recognised for their efforts by receiving a prize package including;