David Murphy – Volunteer of the Year 2026
A Special Individual Honour
We are thrilled to announce that David Murphy was awarded Sports Volunteer of the Year at the Fingal Sports Awards.
David has been the main catalyst behind the introduction and growth of Parastanding Tennis in Ireland. He has worked tirelessly to promote the sport, identify and encourage others who are eligible to try it, and work closely with Tennis Ireland to secure support for representing Ireland on the global stage. He has inspired both new players and younger tennis players to pursue international representation.
A hugely supportive and inspirational leader, David has travelled around the country supporting regional launches, following on from hosting the very first Parastanding events with the backing of his home club, CLTC. He played a key role in securing a regular Parastanding Tennis coaching programme at Castleknock, and has shown exceptional commitment and dedication in working with Tennis Ireland to drive national awareness of the sport.
Parastanding Tennis at CLTC
A hugely supportive and inspirational leader, David has travelled around the country supporting regional launches, following on from hosting the very first Parastanding events with the backing of his home club, CLTC. He played a key role in securing a regular Parastanding Tennis coaching programme at Castleknock, and has shown exceptional commitment and dedication in working with Tennis Ireland to drive national awareness of the sport.
David is currently ranked in the top five Parastanding Tennis players in the world. Without his grit and determination, Parastanding Tennis in Ireland would simply not be where it is today. On the international stage, there is significant campaigning for Parastanding Tennis to be included in major tennis tournaments, and David continues to be a powerful voice in that movement.
He was in Australia earlier this year, where he competed in the Oceania Para Standing Tennis Championships in Melbourne, reaching the PST1 doubles final. While there, David and fellow Parastanding athletes took to Margaret Court Arena at Melbourne Park, showcasing their sport on a world stage. David is a true ambassador for both young people and adults with disabilities.