Liam Mackay, Youth Justice Sport Coordinator at Cardiff Metropolitan University, has been named Wales’ winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 Unsung Hero Award. This prestigious accolade celebrates his outstanding contributions to grassroots sport and community wellbeing.
Liam leads Cardiff Met Sport’s ‘Step into Sport’ project – an innovative partnership with The South Wales Police Youth Trust. This programme uses the power of sport to address youth offending, offering early interventions to reduce crime and promote positive futures.
By fostering confidence and motivation, Liam’s work through the project empowers young people in Caerau and Ely to overcome challenges and unlock their potential. Such is the impact of the programme, American University Ball State University made it the focus of a 15-minute documentary in partnership with Cardiff Met’s Sports Broadcast students.
Liam was nominated for the award by members of the community. He founded the Caerau and Ely Mini and Junior Rugby Club in 2018 and, under his leadership, the club has grown to support over 200 children and adults in one of Wales’ most economically challenged areas.
His “More Than Rugby” ethos prioritises community engagement and player wellbeing, extending beyond the pitch. Through partnerships with local food banks, the club ensures children have access to breakfast and provides free rugby opportunities with initiatives like a boot bank.
Reflecting on his award, Liam said: “It’s a huge honour to receive this award knowing how much hard work goes into the thousands of volunteer-led clubs, projects, and groups across Wales.
“It’s very much a team effort, and this award is for all my friends and fellow volunteers in Ely. As a collective, we are aiming to provide a level playing field for our children and young people with the rest of the city of Cardiff.
“Sport gives us one of the only opportunities to provide that on a daily and weekly basis, but our #MoreThanRugby strategy is providing equal opportunities for children to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives.”
Ben O’Connell, Director of Sport at Cardiff Metropolitan University, also congratulated Liam on his achievement: “We are incredibly proud of Liam and the well-deserved recognition he has received through the BBC Sport Wales Unsung Hero Award.
“His dedication to using sport as a tool for social change is truly inspiring, and his work with the Step into Sport project and the Caerau and Ely Mini and Junior Rugby Club has transformed countless lives.
“Liam embodies the values of Cardiff Met Sport, demonstrating the power of sport to unite communities, empower individuals, and create lasting positive change. This award is a testament to his hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.”
Liam is one of 15 regional winners of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 Unsung Hero Award. The overall winner will be revealed during the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 ceremony on Tuesday, 17 December, live on BBC One and iPlayer.
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, commented: “The BBC is proud to celebrate the incredible volunteers who make grassroots sports possible by creating opportunities and bringing communities together.”
