Future Stars Awards 2026

The University’s annual Future Stars Awards, sponsored by McKeever Sports, provides an opportunity for Queen’s to recognise the most talented Year 11 and 12 student athletes across each of the University’s five priority sports.

On 15 April 2026, students and their parents attended a special gala event in Whitla Hall for a celebration of school sport and to gain insight into the University’s Academy Programmes - a comprehensive support package that enables students to pursue sport and academia as dual careers at Queen’s.

The Queen’s Sports Development Team works closely with Ulster Hockey, Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA, the NI Schools Football Association and Rowing Ireland to deliver programmes of activity that give nearly 1,000 Year 11 and 12 sports stars across Ulster the opportunity to catch the attention of Queen’s Sport coaches and staff. This resulted in over 148 Queen’s Future Stars Awards being presented.

With over 350 guests in attendance, this year’s event marked the largest Future Stars celebration to date, reflecting the continued growth and recognition of youth sporting excellence across Ulster.

Karl Oakes, Head of Sport & Physical Wellbeing at Queen’s Sport, said:

"This evening, we celebrate the brightest young athletes from across Ulster, recognising individuals who have demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication across GAA, Hockey, Soccer, Rugby and Rowing. Our rigorous selection and trial process identifies top athletes, and we are proud to support their continued development both academically and in sport."