Special Olympics Ireland Celebrates Matt English’s Prestigious Recognition

Special Olympics Ireland is proud to mark a truly special moment in our organisation’s history, as our CEO, Matt English, was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement for Contribution to Irish Sport Award at the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards, presented by the Federation of Irish Sport.

This prestigious award is a fitting tribute to Matt’s remarkable dedication, energy, and leadership over nearly two decades of involvement in the Special Olympics movement. Matt first joined the organisation as Chief Financial Officer for the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Dublin—a landmark event for Irish sport and inclusion. He went on to become CEO of Special Olympics Ireland in 2008, a role he has carried out with passion and purpose ever since.

Now, as he prepares to retire later this year, this recognition celebrates not only Matt’s many achievements but also the legacy he leaves behind.

Over the past 17 years, Matt has led with vision and heart, helping to grow the organisation into a national movement that now reaches almost 7,000 athletes annually through a vibrant network of more than 220 affiliated clubs across Ireland. Under his leadership, we have developed impactful partnerships—including with Golf Ireland and Badminton Ireland—that have expanded opportunities for athletes and deepened our connection with the wider Irish sporting community.

Matt is widely recognised as one of the hardest-working people in Irish sport. Whether it’s behind the scenes or front and centre, he is ever-present—attending countless events, cheering on athletes, connecting with families, and supporting volunteers. His tireless dedication, hands-on approach, and boundless energy have inspired everyone lucky enough to work with him. His leadership has always been grounded in kindness, integrity, and a genuine belief in the potential of every athlete. This award not only honours Matt’s extraordinary contribution to Irish sport, but also celebrates the spirit of inclusion, perseverance, and excellence that he has championed throughout his career.

Matt was very modest about his award commenting: "I was truly honoured to receive the Outstanding Achievement & Contribution to Sport Award by Minister Charlie McConalogue last Tuesday evening at the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards hosted by the Federation of Sport. I accepted this acolade in recognition of the incredible work that we all do, day in and day out across the island of Ireland to make the Special Olympics Movement so incredible. A huge debt of gratitude is owed to our volunteers, board members, staff and athletes both past and present." 

From all of us at Special Olympics Ireland—athletes, families, volunteers, staff, and supporters—thank you, Matt. You’ve made a lasting difference, and you will always be part of our family.

Congratulations on this richly deserved recognition.