Irish international footballer James McClean has tonight been named the RTE Irish Sportsperson of the Year for 2017.
The Derryman scooped the award voted for by the public, beating tough competition from Rena Buckley (Camogie), Ryan Burnett (Boxing), Joe Canning (Hurling), Katie-George Dunlevy and Eve McCrystal (Para Cycling), Noelle Healy (Ladies Football), James McClean (Soccer), Michael McKillop (Para Athletics), Andy Moran (Gaelic Football), Conor Murray (Rugby), Paul O’Donovan (Rowing), Robbie Power (Horse-Racing), Jason Smyth (Para Athletics), Katie Taylor (Boxing), and Joe Ward (Boxing).
The West Bromwich Albion winger was vital in the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualification attempt, scoring the winning goal against Wales to send his side through to the Playoffs where they were beaten 5-1 on aggregate over two legs by Denmark.
Horse trainer Aidan O'Brian was named Manager of the Year after he trained 26 Group 1 winners in a calendar year, while the first award of the night - Young Sportsperson of the Year - went to 17 year-old swimmer Mona McSharry. The Sligo native won gold in the 100m Breaststroke, and bronze in the 50m Breaststroke at the World Junior Swimming Championships in August.
She recently joined Ger Gilroy on Off The Ball AM and spoke in depth about her tough training schedule, and what she plans for the future.
Snooker legend Ken Doherty was inducted to the Hall of Fame for the 20th anniversary of his World Snooker Championship, and the Irish Showjumping team were named Team of the Year for scooping European gold.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
