Northern Ireland footballing heroes Steven Davis and Stuart Dallas will be honoured at this year's Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association (NIFWA) Awards, with induction into the prestigious Malcolm Brodie Hall of Fame. The gala event, a highlight on the football calendar, is scheduled to take place at the Crowne Plaza in Belfast on Sunday May 4, right after the season's Irish Cup Final.
Notably, the pair, part of the Kings of Lyon for their heroics during Euro 2016, will join the celebration that recognises the pinnacle of talent in the Irish League, including the Player of the Year, Manager of the Year, and Young Player of the Year.
Davis, a former midfield maestro for Aston Villa and Rangers, earned the distinction of having the most caps for Northern Ireland at 140, leading the team in the European Championships. Thrilled by the accolade, Davis commented, "It's an incredible honour to be inducted into the Malcolm Brodie Hall of Fame alongside genuine greats such as George Best and Harry Gregg."
He expressed his gratitude for the honour, citing his dedication to representing Northern Ireland: "It was always a privilege to represent my country and the people of Northern Ireland. To receive an accolade like this is incredible."
Dallas, revered for his time with Leeds United and boasting an impressive 62 caps for Northern Ireland, has a history with the NIFWA Awards, having previously swept the Player and Young Player of the Year awards in 2011 during his spell with Crusaders. Reflecting on his past achievements, Dallas said, "I have fond memories of winning Player of the Year during my time with Crusaders. It's an honour to return the awards all these years later, to join the Hall of Fame."
The esteemed NIFWA Player of the Year accolade, first bestowed upon Coleraine icon Dessie Dickson in 1970, has celebrated Irish League stars such as Martin McGaughey, Glenn Ferguson and Joe Gormley throughout its history.
This year's coveted award is highly anticipated, with nominees to be revealed come April.
A host of other honours, including Team of the Year spots, Championship Player of the Year and NIFWA's historic International Personality award, are also up for contention.
Commenting on the upcoming event, NIFWA Chair Michael Clarke said: "Our annual awards are a highlight in the Northern Ireland football calendar.
"It's an opportunity to honour the exceptional talent and dedication within our football community, and a chance to celebrate another magnificent season."
Clarke added: "We are thrilled to host this year's all-new ceremony at the Crowne Plaza, a venue that reflects the prestige of these awards.
"The Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association also has a new logo to mark an exciting new era for the association."
Further information on the NIFWA Awards 2025 will be confirmed in due course.
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