Athletics Ireland’s Coach Education Strategic Plan 2024-2028 offers a comprehensive roadmap designed to elevate coaching standards and support the development of athletes at all levels, from grassroots to elite. This five-year plan underscores Athletics Ireland’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and excellence within the sport.
The strategic plan is built on four key pillars: Coach Education Pathway, Coach Licensing, E-Learning Platform, and High Performance. These pillars aim to provide coaches with the necessary tools, resources, and support to maximise their potential and, in turn, help athletes achieve their best.
Key Objectives of the Plan Include:
- Increasing participation in coach education courses by 25% by 2024.
- Developing a coach licensing system to ensure accountability and adherence to best practices.
- Launching an innovative e-learning platform for coach education, safeguarding, and anti-doping.
- Expanding formal course offerings and creating a mentorship programme for coaches.
- Building a strong community of practice to encourage networking and knowledge sharing.
Pat Ryan, Director of Coaching & Development at Athletics Ireland said: “Coaches are the backbone of our sport, and this strategic plan is a testament to our commitment to their development. By investing in our coaches, we are investing in the future of athletics in Ireland. This plan will ensure that our coaches are equipped with the latest knowledge, skills, and resources to support athletes at every stage of their journey.”
Conor Wilson, Coach Education Manager for Athletics Ireland said:“The release of the Coach Education Strategic Plan marks a significant step toward enhancing coaching standards and development pathways. This initiative outlines a clear vision for coaches in Ireland and the resources necessary to drive athlete success. By emphasizing structured education, ongoing professional development, and innovative training methodologies, the document aims to elevate coaching quality across all levels. It will be crucial in helping coaches to nurture talent and foster excellence in our sport”.
The plan also emphasises inclusivity and diversity, with a focus on broadening opportunities for coaches from all backgrounds. Athletics Ireland aims to create a more inclusive environment that welcomes and supports everyone involved in the sport.
For more information, please visit www.athleticsireland.ie or contact conorwilson@athleticsireland.ie.
For further inquiries, please contact:Athletics Ireland
Unit 19, Northwood Court, Northwood Business Campus, Santry, Dublin 9, Ireland
Email: conorwilson@athleticsireland.ie
Website: www.athleticsireland.ie
