Johnny is awarded Sportstar of the Year

THE prestigious Irish Independent Sportstar of the Year Awards 2018 celebrated its landmark 30th anniversary at a glittering ceremony in Croke Park Stadium. 

Over 300 guests, including some of the most influential names in the sporting industry, attended the highly anticipated evening that marked three decades of recognising unforgettable moments in Irish sport.

The ceremony saw some of the country’s most acclaimed athletes honoured for their contribution to another year of outstanding achievements, as documented by the Irish Independent. 

World Rugby Player of the Year, and Ireland and Leinster out-half Johnny Sexton was awarded with the top honour of Sportstar of the Year, as well as the Magic Moment of the Year for his unrivalled success in 2018 .

Two-time European champion and Irish middle-distance runner Sarah Healy was named Young Sportstar of the Year for her incredible achievements as a 17-year-old athlete.

This year’s Team of the Year went to the Irish Women’s Hockey Team after a historic year saw them bring home a World Cup silver medal. 

The highly deserving Euro ’88 Irish Soccer Team was inducted into the esteemed Irish Independent Hall of Fame, with Niall Quinn and Packie Bonner in attendance to accept the award.

David Courtney, Head of Sport Content, Independent News & Media said: “We are thrilled to celebrate 30 years of awarding tremendous talent in Irish sport.”

018 saw another sensational 12 months of outstanding performances that we are honoured to recognise at the 30th annual Irish Independent Sportstar Awards. We look forward to the event every year and are proud to host an evening that highlights the passion, commitment and comradery that bring us together as a country, through sport.