MANCHESTER, NH — The Safe Sports Network will host its 14th Annual Safe Sports Social on Thursday, March 19th from 5–7 p.m. at The Derryfield Restaurant, bringing together community members committed to protecting the health and safety of local student-athletes.
This year’s event, Honoring the Legacy; Strengthening the Future, highlights the organization’s ongoing efforts to ensure young athletes have access to professional athletic healthcare regardless of financial circumstance.
The evening will feature recognition of Dan O’Neil, named the 2026 Safe Sports Star of the Year. The award honors individuals who, though not formally affiliated with Safe Sports Network, demonstrate an exceptional commitment to youth sports safety.
A lifelong Manchester resident and graduate of Central High School, O’Neil has served 12 terms as Alderman-at-Large and represented Manchester in the New Hampshire State Senate. In addition to his public service, he has spent decades mentoring youth as a coach, official, and athletic program leader, including service with the NH Football and Lacrosse Officials Associations, MPAL, CYO Basketball, and Pony League Baseball.
“Dan understands both the value of sports and the responsibility we share to protect young athletes,” said Safe Sports Network Executive Director Amy Hollingworth. “He has witnessed firsthand the difference trained athletic professionals make in critical moments.”
Safe Sports Network currently provides licensed athletic trainers across seven Manchester-area high schools. These professionals deliver on-site injury evaluation, concussion management, emergency response, rehabilitation oversight, and medically guided return-to-play decisions. The organization also operates a free injury clinic to ensure families without access to sports-specific healthcare receive expert evaluation and guidance.
Proceeds from the Safe Sports Social directly support these services, helping remove financial and access barriers so students can participate safely and confidently.
Community members are invited to join us on March 19th to celebrate a champion for kids, connect with others who share this commitment, and strengthen the future of youth sports safety in Manchester.
Those interested in attending or sponsoring the event can visit 2026social.givesmart.com for more information.