Special Olympics Ireland launches Women in Sport Action Plan
Special Olympics Ireland takes a historic step with launch of first women in sport action plan to tackle inequality in sport
Special Olympics Ireland proudly announces the launch of its inaugural Women in Sport Action Plan, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in sports.
This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind for Special Olympics Ireland, underscores the organisation’s dedication to empowering women and girls with intellectual disabilities through sports. The action plan aims to address the unique challenges faced by female athletes, coaches and volunteers while fostering an environment of support, opportunity, and recognition.
The organisation takes its lead from Sport Ireland’s Policy on Women in Sport, Special Olympics Ireland now has a clear pathway to success with goals and objectives set out as part of a four-year strategy.
Nora Stapleton, Director of Strategic National Governing Body Programmes and Women in Sport Lead at Sport Ireland attending the launch said
“It’s very encouraging to see NGBs such as Special Olympics Ireland build on Sport Ireland's Women in Sport Policy and apply its guidelines to create their own path to success. They are really taking ownership of this important work. This step will help women and girls to have an equal opportunity to achieve their full potential in sport."
Nora Stapleton, Director of Strategic National Governing Body Programmes and Women in Sport Lead at Sport Ireland
As an organisation deeply rooted in the values of inclusion and equality, Special Olympics Ireland is thrilled to introduce our Women in Sport Action Plan. We recognise the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all athletes, and this initiative reaffirms our commitment to empowering women and girls with intellectual disabilities to thrive in sports.”
Karen Coventry, Director of Sport at Special Olympics Ireland
Aaron Senior, Education and Participation Coordinator at Special Olympics Ireland spoke to the contents of the report and how the organisation plans to build on its goals.
“The Women in Sport Action Plan lays out a comprehensive set of strategies for building our Women in Sport offering. These initiatives are focused on:
- Coaching and Officiating
- Active Participation
- Leadership and Governance
- Visibility
Currently 59% of SOI coaches are female and we want to focus on our female athlete numbers which currently sits at 36%. We're aiming to promote female participation s and find new ways to keep our female members active in the organisation for years. We want people to see a future for themselves in Special Olympics Ireland, as an athlete, volunteer or staff member.”
Special Olympics Ireland invites athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters to join in the journey towards gender equality in sports and celebrate the achievements of female athletes with intellectual disabilities.
For more information about Special Olympics Ireland and its Women in Sport Action Plan, please click the button below
