In an historic collaboration, the Camogie Association and Ladies Gaelic Football Association have joined forces with SHE Research at TUS to introduce pioneering resources aimed at supporting and empowering female athletes in Camogie and Ladies’ Gaelic Football.
These resources, developed through rigorous research and expert collaboration, address the unique needs and experiences of young female athletes participating in Gaelic games. Recognising the importance of fostering health literacy and communication around sex-specific experiences, the initiative aims to enhance the well-being and performance of female athletes.
Understanding the Landscape
Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football stand as the most popular team sports for young females across Ireland. However, participation tends to decline as females transition from adolescence into adulthood. The Gaelic Games Youth Participation Study highlights that the enduring appeal of Gaelic Games lies in factors such as competitiveness, camaraderie with friends, and proficiency in the sport.
Meeting Unique Challenges
Female athletes in Gaelic games encounter sex-specific experiences, including menstrual cycles, hormonal contraceptive use, and breast development, which can impact their participation, enjoyment, and performance in the game. For instance, a significant proportion of intercounty players report the menstrual cycle affecting their performance.
Addressing the Need
Responding to these challenges, the collaborative effort between the Camogie Association, Ladies Gaelic Football Association, and SHE Research aims to bridge the gap in health literacy and communication. The resources prioritise providing fundamental knowledge about female physiology, focusing on health and participation, and offer guidance for athletes, parents/guardians, and coaches.
A Call to Action
The launch of these resources signals a commitment to supporting the holistic well-being of female athletes in Camogie and Ladies’ Gaelic Football. They encourage open dialogue, education, and support networks within clubs and communities, fostering an environment where every athlete can thrive.
All Female Athlete resources can be accessed here
Female Athlete Toolkit by Camogie Association
