NI legends to be inducted into NIFWA Hall of Fame
TL;DR
Marissa Callaghan and Gareth McAuley are set to be inducted into the NIFWA Hall of Fame. They will join notable figures like George Best and David Healy.
Key points
- Marissa Callaghan and Gareth McAuley inducted into NIFWA Hall of Fame
- Callaghan captained Northern Ireland at Euro 2022
- Hall of Fame includes legends like George Best and David Healy
Mentioned in this story
Marissa Callaghan and Gareth McAuley will be inducted into the NIFWA's Hall of Fame [Getty Images]
Northern Ireland legends Marissa Callaghan and Gareth McAuley will be inducted into the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Hall of Fame.
Callaghan and McAuley will join a host of established names in the Hall of Fame such as George Best, Harry Gregg, David Healy and Steven Davis.
Former Northern Ireland midfielder Callaghan captained Northern Ireland at the Euro 2022 finals - a first major tournament for the women's side.
The midfielder retired from football this year after a career that saw her earn 91 international and win two Women's Premiership titles with Cliftonville, in 2022 and an invincible year in 2024.
"It's an honour to join the NIFWA Hall of Fame alongside so many famous names from the world of football," said Callaghan, who will be the first women's player to receive the honour at Sunday's annual awards.
"The award is not just a reflection of my efforts, but the support and help of all my team-mates and coaches over the years."
The former Cliftonville midfielder is joined in the Hall of Fame by McAuley, who won 80 caps for Northern Ireland between 2005 and 2018.
McAuley scored one of the most famous goals in the history of Northern Ireland football in the historic Euro 2016 win over Ukraine in Lyon.
At club level, McAuley made his name in the Irish League with Crusaders and Coleraine before turning out for Lincoln City, Leicester City, Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion and Rangers.
"It's very pleasing and an honour to be inducted into the Football Writers' Hall of Fame," McAuley said.
"The Euros was ten years ago, and I've been retired nearly seven years, so to be remembered and recognised in this way is really humbling."
Q&A
Who are the latest inductees into the NIFWA Hall of Fame?
The latest inductees are Marissa Callaghan and Gareth McAuley.
What achievements did Marissa Callaghan have in her career?
Marissa Callaghan captained Northern Ireland at the Euro 2022 finals, marking a significant milestone for the women's team.
Which famous players are already in the NIFWA Hall of Fame?
Established names in the Hall of Fame include George Best, Harry Gregg, David Healy, and Steven Davis.
