Shelbourne to the fore in Soccer Writers' nominations

The nominees for the 2024 SSE Airtricity/Soccer Writers' sees men's Premier Division winners Shelbourne strongly represented, with contenders in the Men's Personality of the Year, Women’s Personality of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year categories.

In the Men's Personality of the Year, four of the nominees are top-flight managers: Shels’ league winner Damien Duff, Drogheda United’s FAI Cup winning boss Kevin Doherty along with previous winners, Stephen Bradley (Shamrock Rovers) and Stephen Kenny (St Patrick’s Athletic).

Shelbourne's defender Paddy Barrett and Shamrock Rovers' midfielder Dylan Watts complete the six-man shortlist.

Three stoppers are in the running for the goalkeeping award

Brendan Clarke, now 39 years old, has made over 500 club appearances over his distinguished career and played every minute of Galway United’s 36 League matches.

He’s joined on the shortlist by Shelbourne’s Conor Kearns, who conceded just 27 goals, the fewest in the top flight. Sligo Rovers’ Ed McGinty is also in contention. The 25-year-old didn't miss a game for the Bit O’Red, keeping 12 clean sheets.

In the women's category, two managers and four players are in contention.

Ciarán Kilduff led Athlone Town to Premier Division glory losing a mere three games over the season. He got them to another FAI Cup final too, where the midlanders lost to Shelbourne. His captain Laurie Ryan is also nominated after a fine campaign for the midlanders.

Eoin Wearen ended his first year as Shels boss with that cup triumph triumph and is up against two key figures in his dressing room: Pearl Slattery Noelle Murray.

Finally Julie-Ann Russell of Galway United is recognised after a super season that saw her shine for club and country.

The awards will be presented at