Emma Duffy is the Investec 20x20 Media Awards winner for the month of April.  Emma’s winning article published online in the 42.ie on March 28th, 2019, entitled: “'I couldn't ask for any more to be honest... I'm living my dream, as cringe as that sounds'” is an in-depth feature on the meteoric rise of Isibeal Atkinson, a 17-year-old winger with Shelbourne FC and the senior national football team.

Anna Kessel, Investec 20x20 Media Awards judging panel Chair, said:
“Isibeal is clearly a footballing talent with a bright future ahead of her.  A footballer making the grade and been handed their first senior international cap at the age of just 16 should be a headline generator across the media spectrum. It’s really encouraging to see Isibeal’s achievements secure such positive media coverage with in-depth reporting from Emma Duffy at the 42.ie.”

Michael Cullen, CEO, Investec said:
“Emma Duffy’s interview brings to life a genuine and heart-warming story of a young talented footballer and a special relationship with her dad, bound together by their love of football. Isibeal’s dedication to her sport and her father’s willingness and encouragement to help her realise that dream is an important theme that 20x20 hopes to demonstrate. We’re proud that the Investec 20x20 Media Awards provides a platform to share these fantastic stories. We look forward to seeing the next wave of entries highlighting Ireland’s elite performers in their respective sports.” 

Mary O’ Connor, CEO, Federation of Irish Sport added:
“Emma Duffy’s interview with Isibeal Atkinson shines a light on many of the barriers our female footballers experience.  More needs to be done to ensure that there is better access and a stronger pathway for our young girls to be able to play football in a structured environment.  Girls should not have to travel more an hour just to train and play with a grassroots football team.”

The Investec 20x20 Media Awards recognise and reward excellence in Irish journalism focused on Women in Sport. Investec is a proud sponsor of 20x20, an initiative presented by The Federation of Irish Sport which calls on the people of Ireland to provide more support for women in sport. In demonstrating its commitment to the initiative, Investec has created this new awards scheme to help change the perceptions of women’s sport.  The Investec 20x20 Media Awards recognises that increased visibility will lead to greater cultural recognition of girls and women in sport. 

The winning article can be found online here.

To put forward an entry for the May Investec 20x20 Media Award please click here.