CEO of Ulster Hockey, Marc Scott, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the NI Sports Forum following the Annual General Meeting on 21st November. Marc takes on the role following the term served by Ashley Hunter, who now steps down from the Board. Marc will be joined with Kelly McVeigh as Vice Chairperson and Marc Mulholland as Honorary Secretary.
The AGM of the NI Sports Forum was held on 21st November at Newforge Sports Hub, where members heard the latest review of the work of the Sports Forum over 2022-23 and elected new Directors to the Board. Ashley Hunter highlighted key aspects of the year, including the celebration of sport in 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, development of services delivered by the NI Sports Forum and continued advocacy and engagement on behalf of the sector. He thanked all the Board, staff and partners to the Sports Forum, without whom, the work could not be undertaken.
Also stepping down this year was Katrina McCaughan, after a six year term on the Board. David Johnston from Ulster Rugby and Allison Mercer from the Northern Ireland Horse Board were elected by Members to serve on the Board.
About his appointment, new Chair, Marc Scott commented: “I am delighted to have been appointed as Chairperson of the NI Sports Forum. I have been involved with the Forum for three years and seen the impact of the work it does to act as the voice of voluntary sport in Northern Ireland. As we look forward to a new Strategy from 2024, I look forward to working with such a capable and motivated group of individuals to help develop and progress the work of the Forum”
The AGM was followed by an excellent presentation from Anna Pim, founder of the Heart of the Game. Anna outlined how she began the initiative, starting with her own sport of hockey, and where it has now led to delivery across different sports. Anna has received a number of accolades for her initiative, including SportNI SportMaker Project of the year Award, shortlisted for BBC Sports Personality Unsung Hero Award and EuroHockey Youth Leadership award. Full details on the project can be found at: At The Heart Of The Game
The NISF Annual Report 2022-23 can be found online