The Ulster University Graduate Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by Allstate Northern Ireland, celebrates an Ulster University graduate who has shown exceptional dedication to supporting the University community. This award honours graduates who generously give their time and expertise to benefit students, staff, and fellow alumni. The Graduate Volunteer Award recipient exemplifies the spirit of Ulster University, offering their energy and commitment time and again to make a lasting impact on students, the University, their local community and wider society.
This year, we are proud to honour Barry Dillon as our Graduate Volunteer of 2024. Barry’s passion and dedication to sport at Ulster University is truly inspiring. Over the past 13 years, he has volunteered as a coach for multiple teams, and more recently has led as head coach of the University’s Senior Gaelic Football Squad.
Each year, Barry manages an impressive schedule of at least 20 competitive games and leads a minimum of 30 coaching sessions—no matter the weather—all on a volunteer basis. Beyond his coaching on the field, Barry makes it a priority to support his players off the pitch as well, meeting with them individually to ensure everyone feels valued and heard. He emphasizes team spirit and cultivates leadership skills within the group.
Barry’s dedication has clearly paid off leading to a series of successful seasons over the past decade, including multiple All-Ireland league titles across Freshers, Senior and Intermediate levels. This year, his efforts culminated in the senior squad reaching the Senior League final and ultimately winning the Sigerson Cup for Ulster University!
Congratulations, Barry, and thank you for your outstanding dedication.
Pictured above: Barry was presented the award by Thomas McLaughlin from Allstate NI, who kindly sponsor this award, at the Annual Performance Sport Scholarships Presentation on 8 November.
Cherry on top of the cake
“I suppose the award is just the cherry on top of the cake after the successful year that we just had. I fully appreciate and understand this recognition wouldn’t have come about without the outstanding performances of the UU Sigerson Cup winning squad and the other members of our management team. So I’d like to accept this prestigious award on behalf of everyone of them.”
Kindly sponsored by Allstate Northern Ireland
