Southside sports stars are People of the Year

IRELAND soccer legend Robbie Keane, from Tallaght, and Olympic sailor Annalise Murphy, from Dún Laoghaire, were among those honoured at the 42nd People of the Year Awards.

Paralympian medallist Ellen Keane, from Clontarf, and Br Kevin Crowley, the founder of the Capuchin Day Centre, were also honoured on the night.

The awards, which are organised by Rehab, were broadcast live on RTÉ One from Citywest Hotel.

Robbie received the International Person of the Year Award for his inspirational service, leadership and passion.

Having exploded onto the Irish schoolboy’s league with his club Crumlin United, Robbie went on to play with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Coventry City, Inter Milan, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Glasgow Celtic.

In 2011, the Dubliner signed for LA Galaxy and has been central to the success of the US side. Earlier this year Robbie announced his retirement from international football having represented Ireland on the international football stage for 18 years. With 67 goals from 145 appearances, the Tallaght native is Ireland’s record goal scorer and cap holder.

He made his last international appearance for Ireland in a friendly against Oman in August. Scoring his 68th international goal, Robbie celebrated his final Irish goal with his trademark cartwheel.

He has made a huge contribution to soccer in Ireland, and all over the world, and will always be known as a stalwart member of the Irish team. 

Robbie said: “I have spoken this year of how it has been an honour to represent my country for so long.

“I have always worn the green jersey with pride and I will always be grateful for the opportunities to play for and captain the international team.

“It has been the highlight of my career. It is a privilege for me and my family to receive this award.”

Olympic sailor Annalise Murphy won a Sports Person of the Year Award alongside rowing brothers Gary and Paul O’Donovan.

Annalise navigated her way in stunning style to a silver medal at the Rio Olympics. After being pipped to the podium at the London 2012 Games, Annalise’s spectacular performance on a glorious August day in Guanabara Bay will live long in the memory of Irish people.

Her success is Ireland’s first medal in sailing in over 35 years. The 26-year-old spent more than 100 days training in Rio prior to the opening ceremony.

The Olympic medallist, who still trains at the National Yacht Club in Dún Laoghaire, hopes her success will put sailing on the map.

In accepting her award, Annalise said: “It really means a lot to win this award, it’s great for all the young sailors in the country to realise they can make it if they keep pursuing their dreams. I think the Rio Olympics has put sailing on the map.”

and I’ve noticed a spike in the amount of people giving it a go.”