The Athletics Ireland Women in Sport Strategy 2026–2028 marks the next phase of Athletics Ireland’s commitment to advancing gender equity across every level of the sport.
Building on strong progress in recent years, we are seeing more women and girls than ever joining clubs, engaging in programmes, and shaping athletics in new and meaningful ways.
This strategy sets out a clear ambition: to create a system where women are visible, supported, and empowered at every stage of their journey – from first participation to high performance, and from local club involvement to national leadership.
Backed by the continued leadership of Sport Ireland and the sustained support of the Irish Government, Athletics Ireland is positioned to deliver a bold and impactful programme of change. Together, these partnerships enable us to be ambitious, innovative, and resolute in driving lasting progress.
At its core, this strategy is about pathways – ensuring women and girls can enter, stay, and thrive in athletics in whatever role they choose. Through strong leadership, visible role models, and inclusive opportunities, we are committed to creating a sport where every woman and girl feels they belong.
The Women in Sport Strategy 2026–2028 outlines how Athletics Ireland will harness this momentum to deepen impact and accelerate change – working in partnership with clubs, athletes, volunteers, and communities nationwide to make athletics a lifelong sport for women and girls.
Vision: To make athletics a lifelong sport and a lifestyle choice for women and girls.
Mission: To provide programmes, pathways and club supports to allow all women and girls to take part in athletics for their lifetime.
Aligning with the Sport Ireland Women in Sport Strategy and the more recent Balanced Leadership Framework document, we will develop and deliver programmes across the following key pillars.
Key Target Areas
Coaching
- Grow and retain the female coaching base from grass roots to performance through support programmes, networks and education
- Provide support and education for ALL coaches coaching women
Officiating
- Provide clear pathways to officiating to support new females into the roles
- Create supportive environments to retain and develop female officials
- Develop and deliver a new Young Officials programme to boost the number of officials starting their development journey
Leadership
- Develop strong female leaders across all areas of the organisation though existing and new leadership support structures
- Achieve gender balance across all Athletics Ireland boards and committees by 2028
- Influence County Boards and club committees to work towards balanced leadership
Visibility
- Promote our sport through our members own eyes using a wide range of social media and marketing campaigns
- Show that our sport is for all from grass roots to high performance using a variety of gender, age, inclusive and ability led imagery
Active Participation
- Increase the number of women taking part in athletics from social run clubs to high performance
- Provide programmes and support for clubs, schools and wider groups to slow the drop out of teenage girls in sport
- Create events which encourage and keep women on the start line
- Work with clubs to develop events which reduce barriers to participation and foster an environment of support and enjoyment.
High Performance
- Support high performance pathways through female specific education, awareness campaigns and support
- Develop pathway support for the development squads to educate and support female athletes
Across all programmes we will:
- Foster an environment of support and change for all who support women and girls in sport
- Provide a range of programmes which deliver opportunities to empower both men and women in sport
Download Women In Sport Strategy Document
Women in Sport Lead: Anna Grealish annagrealish@athleticsireland.ie
