Carlow Sports Partnership

Q: What does inclusivity in sport mean to you?
Inclusivity in sport means making sure that everyone, regardless of their ability, background, or circumstances, has the opportunity to participate and feel welcome. Sport should be a space where nobody feels left out, and where differences are embraced rather than seen as barriers.

Q: What challenges do you think exist in making sport more inclusive?
One of the biggest challenges is accessibility—whether that’s physical access to facilities, financial barriers, or simply a lack of awareness about available opportunities. Sometimes, people don’t feel like they belong in a sporting environment because they don’t see people like themselves participating. Representation and education are key to overcoming this.

Q: How can we take action to ensure sport is more inclusive?
We need to focus on creating welcoming environments. That means training coaches and volunteers to understand different needs, ensuring facilities are adaptable, and promoting the message that sport is for everyone. Funding and grants also play a big role in removing financial barriers, making it easier for people from all backgrounds to get involved.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to make their club or organisation more inclusive?
Start by listening. Talk to people in your community—ask what they need and what’s stopping them from taking part. Small changes can make a big difference, whether it’s offering beginner-friendly sessions, adapting facilities, or simply creating a culture where everyone feels valued. Inclusivity isn’t just a box to tick; it’s about making sport better for all.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you as a woman in sport?
International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to celebrate women and their achievements in all fields—including sport. It’s a chance to reflect on the progress that has been made in women’s sport while also recognising the challenges and opportunities that remain. It’s a day to honour the great sportswomen who have pushed boundaries and fought for equality, paving the way for the next generation. Most importantly, it’s a powerful moment for advocacy, highlighting the importance of sport and physical activity for young girls. #CantSeeCantBe

What barriers do you think still exist for women in sport, and how can we break them down?
While we’ve come a long way towards equality in sport, there’s still a long way to go. Women’s sports are often underfunded, receive limited media coverage, and lack equal opportunities and facilities. To change this, we need a societal shift in attitudes towards women’s sport. Visibility and investment are key. While media coverage of women’s sport has improved, it doesn’t always fairly represent the talent and achievements of female athletes. Too often, coverage focuses on appearance or personal lives—something rarely seen in men’s sport. Advocacy plays a crucial role in breaking down these barriers, ensuring that female athletes receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Who has been a strong female role model for you in sport, and why?
I’ve been lucky to have many role models in sport—some older, some younger. To me, a role model is someone whose actions have a positive influence, showing sportsmanship, discipline, resilience, and a commitment to giving back. The strongest female role model in my life has been Deirdre Tomlinson.

I’ve had the privilege of being coached by Dee and playing alongside her with BT for the last ten years. She’s been the backbone of the club—coaching underage teams, captaining the senior team, and playing an active role on the committee, all while training hard and keeping morale high. She welcomes every player, no matter their ability, and will always go the extra mile—literally! She once drove me all the way back to the Gaeltacht in Belmullet, Mayo after I came home for a match, without a second thought.

Dee is someone I aspire to be like—gracious in victory and defeat, hardworking, and endlessly positive. She is the definition of a true role model.

What advice would you give to young girls looking to stay involved in sport as they grow up?
The most important thing to remember is that you belong. There is a place for women in every sport. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because you’re a girl—you deserve every opportunity to succeed.

Have fun, build friendships, dream big, and believe in yourself!

Q: What does leadership in sport mean to you, and how do you apply it in your work with Sport Ireland?
Leadership in sport, whether on the field or in the office, is about leading by example, fostering confidence in yourself and others, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. It’s about inspiring, supporting, and elevating those around you to reach their full potential.

In my role at Sport Ireland, I lead by actively collaborating with colleagues, bringing enthusiasm and fun, and most importantly, championing my team’s successes. I constantly strive to create a positive, inclusive, and empowering culture in the anti-doping unit where we can all push boundaries and drive meaningful change in sport.

Q: How can leaders help inspire more women to take part in sport?
Leaders can inspire more women to take part in sport by using their positions to provide meaningful opportunities and their voices to amplify the achievements of women in sport both in Ireland and internationally.

Leaders are in a position to break down barriers that have historically limited female participation. Don’t just open the door—hold it open, create space at the table, and let women’s voices be heard, valued, and empowered.

Q: What advice would you give to other women looking to take on leadership roles in sport?
Believe in yourself and own your achievements. Too often, women downplay their successes—so take the credit you deserve and recognise the impact of your work. Speak to yourself with the same encouragement and support you would give a close friend or colleague.

Confidence comes from acknowledging your strengths, trusting your instincts, and staying true to your core values. Leadership in sport requires resilience, so don’t be afraid to take up space, push boundaries, and advocate for yourself and others.

Be loud, be brave, be ‘hysterical’, be the change.

Q: What do you think are the biggest challenges facing women in leadership positions in sport?
Breaking through long-standing gender biases and stereotypes remains one of the biggest challenges. Women often have to work harder to prove their credibility in a space that has historically been male-dominated.

Balancing leadership responsibilities with personal commitments can be tough, and it’s important to acknowledge this so women don’t feel like failures when they can’t ‘do it all’.

Women need strong allyship and a collective commitment to fostering inclusive leadership pathways where they are supported, valued, and given equal opportunities to succeed.

Behind every successful sports programme, event, and team, there are dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to ensure opportunities exist for all. Justine Collins of Carlow Hockey Club, this year’s Carlow recipient of the Volunteer in Sport Award, is one such individual whose passion and commitment have made a lasting impact on her community.

A Lifelong Passion for Sport

Justine’s journey in sport has always been about more than just the game. Whether coaching young athletes, organising community initiatives, or supporting fellow volunteers, she has played a crucial role in making sport more accessible and inclusive.

“Sport is about more than winning—it’s about friendships, teamwork, and creating a space where everyone belongs,” she shares.

Her dedication goes beyond the pitch, ensuring that sport is a place where people of all backgrounds can thrive.

The Vital Role of Volunteers

Volunteers like Justine are the heart of sport at every level. Their contributions keep clubs running, provide guidance to young athletes, and create positive experiences for participants.

“Without volunteers, sport simply wouldn’t happen. It’s the people behind the scenes—coaches, organisers, and supporters—who make all the difference.”

From coordinating fixtures to mentoring players, Justine embodies what it means to be a leader in sport.

Overcoming Challenges, Creating Change

While volunteering is rewarding, it comes with challenges. Balancing commitments, securing resources, and managing logistics can be difficult, but Justine believes the impact makes it all worthwhile.

“Seeing young players grow in confidence and develop both on and off the field is the best reward. The sense of community in sport is something truly special.”

She also highlights the importance of ongoing support and recognition for volunteers, ensuring that more people feel encouraged to step forward.

Encouraging More Women in Leadership

Justine is passionate about increasing female representation in coaching, administration, and leadership roles within sport. She advocates for greater visibility, access to training, and opportunities for women to take on key positions.

“We need to show that there’s a place for everyone in sport—not just as players, but as leaders, mentors, and decision-makers.”

Her message is clear: if you’re considering volunteering in sport, go for it!

Celebrating an Inspiring Volunteer

Winning the Volunteer in Sport Award is a testament to Justine’s dedication and the impact she continues to have. Her work serves as a reminder that sport is not just about competition—it’s about community, growth, and the people who make it all possible.

🎉 Congratulations, Justine, and thank you for all that you do!

Officiating is a vital part of sport, yet it’s not always a role that many consider—especially women. Natasha Sheehan shares her journey into refereeing, the challenges faced by female referees, and her advice for those looking to take on the whistle.

Starting the Journey

My decision to become a referee was actually a bit unexpected. There was a free course coming up in Bunclody, and I thought, why not give it a go? I had always wanted to get into coaching and never even considered refereeing.

So far, the journey has been mostly positive. It’s still quite new for me—I only started in September 2024—so I have a lot to learn. I’m sure a few coaches and managers would agree! Any challenges I face are just part of the learning process. You only improve by doing, and every game is an opportunity to get better.

Challenges for Female Referees

I think the biggest challenge for female referees is confidence. To be a good referee, you have to be strict and decisive, and that’s not always easy. Women tend to express emotions more openly, and when you’re out on the pitch being shouted at from all angles, you have to stay composed and trust yourself.

I also feel that refereeing isn’t something widely advertised for women. You rarely see it promoted in the media, and that could change. If more courses were specifically targeted at girls and women, I’m sure many would love to give it a try. It’s a great experience, and the more visibility it gets, the more women will step forward.

Support and Recognition

From my own experience, I have to say that the referees in the Carlow league have been incredibly supportive. They’ve given me advice, shared tips, and some of them have even refereed me in matches before. The referees’ branch also reaches out to offer support, which makes a huge difference when starting out.

However, I know that not every woman gets the same level of support when stepping into this role. There’s still room for change, and I believe that in the future, female referees will get more recognition and backing.

One thing that has really helped me is being part of a WhatsApp group for female referees. It’s great to see women at different levels—some are just starting out, while others are officiating League of Ireland games. The encouragement and advice shared in that group are amazing. Women really have each other’s backs, but more visibility and promotion of female refereeing would make a huge impact.

Advice for Aspiring Referees

Go for it! It’s an experience like no other, and if you’re interested in progressing your career in sport, there’s a real gap for female referees. Be disciplined, be confident in your decisions, and keep a strong mindset—but most of all, enjoy it.

Coaching plays a vital role in shaping the future of sport, and few know this better than Lauren Dwyer. From winning titles to supporting the next generation of athletes, she shares her journey, insights, and advice for young players looking to take their game to the next level.

What does sport mean to you?

To me, sport is about friends, family, and a sense of community. It’s about everyone moving in the same direction, supporting each other, and working together to help younger players develop. It’s not just about winning—it’s about fostering a feel-good atmosphere and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

What is your favourite memory in sport?

I have two! First, winning my first league title with Wexford—especially because it was a playoff in Tallaght against Shelbourne. That was a huge moment for me. The second has to be winning the All-Ireland with my local club, playing alongside people I grew up with. Those moments are extra special when you share them with teammates who have been on the journey with you.

This year’s theme is ‘Accelerate Action.’ How do you think we can accelerate action in women’s sport?

It’s all about promotion and visibility. In recent years, we’ve seen more media coverage of women’s games, and that’s crucial. The more accessible games are, the more people will watch, support, and participate. We need to make sure women’s sport is seen just as much as men’s sport—having equal representation in media, advertising, and funding is key.

What advice would you give to a girl who wants to play at a higher level in her sport?

Listen. That’s my biggest piece of advice. Take on board what your coaches and mentors tell you—they’re there to help you improve. Never be afraid to ask questions, whether it’s about your position, nutrition, or any other aspect of the game. Keep learning, keep growing, and always seek advice when you need it.

Women’s sport is growing, but we all have a role to play in ensuring it continues to thrive. By supporting each other, staying visible, and striving for success, we can make a lasting impact.

What Inspired You to Stay Involved in Sport as a Young Athlete?

My family and my love for the sport have always been my biggest inspirations to stay involved in athletics. Growing up, my family was always supportive of fitness—whether it was a walk or a jog around the St. Laurence O’Toole track, they were always there, embodying a healthy lifestyle. But when I dig a little deeper, I realise that it was my brother who truly kept me involved. I was always following in his footsteps. He played basketball, and I followed. He ran track, and I followed. There came a point when he stopped, and that’s when I had to make a decision for myself. I had to ask myself, “Is sport what I truly want?” It was a moment of self-reflection, where I realised that my journey wasn’t about following my brother anymore—it was about understanding my own passion, my own goals, and what I wanted to achieve. It was a turning point that helped me define my own path, independent of anyone else’s choices. And in that moment, I made the decision to keep going, for me.

What I’ve come to understand is that having a strong support system is just as important as having a passion for the sport. It’s that encouragement, the sense of community, and the shared love for what we do that truly fuels the journey.

What Challenges Do Teenage Girls Face in Continuing Sport, and How Can We Overcome Them?

Teenage girls face a variety of challenges when it comes to staying in sport, many of which aren’t always openly discussed. From my own experience growing up as a teenage girl in athletics, one of the biggest hurdles was the lack of open conversation about periods and how they can impact training. There was little understanding of how to manage physical training and cope with mood swings during menstruation. It often makes staying committed to the sport more difficult, especially when your body feels like it’s working against you.

Another challenge is the social aspect of sports. Athletics, being an individual sport, can sometimes make forming strong friendships with other girls harder. There’s a lot of pressure to focus solely on your own performance, which can make it tough to connect with others on a deeper level.

To overcome these challenges, it’s important to open up the conversation about periods and how they affect athletic performance. Education is key—teaching young girls about how to manage their cycle, adjusting training schedules to match their bodies, and understanding that mood swings are a natural part of growing up can make a huge difference. In addition, fostering a supportive environment where athletes can bond and share experiences can help build friendships and a sense of community. Encouraging teamwork and creating a culture of inclusivity can bridge the gap and make it easier to form lasting connections, even in individual sports.

What Do You Enjoy Most About Being Active, and How Has Sport Benefited You?

What I enjoy most about being active isn’t necessarily the idea of winning—though that’s always a great feeling—but rather the energy, the atmosphere, and the sense of community that surrounds the sport. It’s the friendships made along the way, the support from teammates and coaches, and the excitement that fills the air during every competition. That’s what drew me in so deeply to athletics. It’s not just the races or the goals, but the experience as a whole.

Athletics has become my safe place. It’s where I go to decompress, to clear my mind, and to just feel at peace. The rhythm of training, the focus of competition, and the shared moments with others in the sport help me feel grounded and relaxed. The benefits go beyond physical strength—they’ve shaped my mindset, my discipline, and have given me a sense of belonging that I cherish.

What Advice Would You Give to Young Girls Who Might Be Thinking About Giving Up on Sport?

My advice would be simple: you have one life. It’s better to live a life of fulfilment than one filled with regret, constantly wishing you had done things differently. Find your support system and discover your “why”—why you’re here, and why you love this sport. Once you understand your “why,” commit to living it out fully.

It won’t always be easy. There will be days when the track—or wherever you train—feels tough, and motivation might be low. But it’s on those days, when you push through, that growth happens. The discipline to keep going, even when you don’t feel like it, is what makes all the difference. It’s the 1%—that one day you choose to train even when it feels hard—that separates the good from the great. So, embrace the challenges, trust your journey, and know that every step forward is a step toward your own fulfilment.

How important is visibility for female athletes, and what impact does it have on participation?

Visibility is huge for female athletes, and it’s one of the key factors that drives participation in sports. When we see women succeeding on big stages, it gives young girls real role models to look up to. Seeing women excel, whether it’s in basketball, ladies’ football, or track, tells them, “I can do this too,” and that’s powerful.

On a more practical level, visibility also means more sponsorships and funding for women’s sports, which leads to better opportunities for athletes. It’s like a cycle—when female athletes get more attention, they get better pay, better facilities, and more chances to compete, which, in turn, encourages more women to join in.

Another thing is that visibility creates a community around women’s sports. It brings in fans, support, and an atmosphere where women feel like they belong and can thrive. Without that visibility, it can feel like there’s not enough attention on women’s sports, and that can discourage both players and fans.

Have you noticed a change in how women’s sport is promoted and covered in the media?

Absolutely, there’s definitely been a shift in how women’s sports are promoted and covered in the media over the last few years. While there’s still a long way to go, we’re seeing more and more attention being given to female athletes and women’s sports in general.

For example, Lidl’s sponsorship of ladies’ football has been a huge boost for the sport. In basketball, TG4 now broadcasts both the Cup and Champions Trophy for both men and women live on TV. Looking beyond Ireland, women’s college basketball in the U.S. is now receiving sponsorship opportunities that were once rare. Prominent players like Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins are now sponsored by major brands like Nike, reflecting the growing promotion and recognition of female athletes in the sport. Caitlin Clark has been a game-changer in promoting women’s basketball, both on and off the court. Her impact has increased visibility and media coverage of the game, drawing more attention to women’s sports as a whole.

What can be done at a local level to increase the visibility of female athletes in Carlow?

To boost the visibility of female athletes in Carlow, there are a lot of things we can do at the local level. For starters, local media outlets like newspapers and radio stations could do a lot more to cover women’s sports. Regular features or even just highlights of local women’s teams and athletes could help raise awareness and show the community the incredible talent that’s here.

Another big factor is encouraging female players to continue participating in their sport. Young girls look up to different female players across Carlow, and by these adult players continuing to play, they inspire the next generation. One of my first memories of basketball was heading to the arena to watch the National Cup finals, where Glanmire was playing. Fast forward 10 years, and I found myself on the court, playing in the National Cup finals with Glanmire. That’s the impact of visibility—it plants a seed of aspiration.

Who was a female role model in sport that inspired you, and why?

I’ve had a few role models who I really looked up to growing up. First, I’d say Aine McKenna and Casey Grace, who both played for Glanmire when I was younger. They each have eight National Cups to their name, and I used to watch them play at the National Basketball Arena while I was still with Old Leighlin Basketball Club. Getting the chance to play alongside them and win a cup with them felt like a dream come true. They’re both incredible women, and I still look up to them today, even though we’re now close friends.

I also have to mention the Old Leighlin ladies’ football team from when I first started playing senior football. Women like Eleanor, Phil, Michelle, and Roisin were so encouraging when I was young, and they had a huge impact on me.

Sign up for Sláinte Maith 2025 here: https://visualcarlow.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173661169

Project Description

Situated in the Link Gallery, the Sláinte Maith programme is is a dance class for participants aged 50+.

The aim of the class is simply to celebrate the joy of movement and provide a social outlet. The focus on maintaining a relaxed atmosphere is also important in fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Participants typically learn a short choreography each week to upbeat pop music. These classes are designed to be accessible – no experience is needed to take part.

After the class, tea and coffee is available in our bar area for participants to relax and bond further – an important element to further the social interaction. There is no additional cost to participants for this.

These classes are currently delivered by Marie Cashin, from Carlow town. Marie is well known for her dance expertise with both children and adults. Her diploma in dance training led her to open MC Dance Stage School 22 years ago. Marie has held many dance workshops with adults over the years in a wide variety of dance styles. Fun and laughter whilst moving is Marie’s motto, and she is always excited to bring her flair and energy to VISUAL for the Sláinte Maith dance classes.

Key Outcomes

The classes have been well attended each week (an average of 25 participants per week). The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. It is mentioned repeatedly that the classes are accessible and deliver on their promise of creating a relaxing and positive atmosphere.

Next Steps (What are the next steps for the Programme/Initiative/Event)

Going forward into 2025, we aim to keep engagement and attendance consistent with the Sláinte Maith programme. Keeping the focus on fun and accessibility is also important to maintain as we feel that this is what makes the programme successful.

We are also in the process of situating the classes into our Theatre instead of the Link Gallery. During a special class we staged as part of our Samhain Festival, participants learned and performed ‘The Monster Mash’ for each other on the Theatre stage. Feedback from participants mentioned that they liked the experience of being ‘on stage’ in a safe and informal context. It’s also been noted that participants preferred the feeling of the floor on the theatre stage than the floor of the Link Gallery; prioritising participants comfort is important to the success of this class and we feel that this small improvement is worthwhile.

Quotes from Participants

‘I came to the Sláinte Maith dance club because on the website the message that it would be relaxed and would suit beginners was appealing to me. I come back because it is fun’.

‘Creativity is for everyone. No matter what age or ability it should be encouraged and fostered’.

‘I’ve always loved music and dancing so Sláinte Maith was an ideal way for me to bring joyful exercise into my older life. This has proven to be so, as I find it gives enjoyment, mental and physical engagement plus socialising’.