Women in Sport Leadership Course

Women in Sport Leadership Development Programme 2026

Step forward. Build confidence. Lead the way.

Meath Local Sports Partnership is delighted to continue supporting women in sport by launching a new Women in Sport Leadership Development Programme in 2026.

This exciting programme is designed for women who are ready to grow, develop new skills, and take the next step in their leadership journey, whether within their club, county, or beyond.

Could this be for you?

Do you know a woman aged 18+ who volunteers in a sports club or organisation, or are you that person yourself?

If you’re passionate about sport and interested in making a greater impact, this programme offers the perfect opportunity to develop the confidence, knowledge, and support network needed to step into a leadership role.

We are looking for women who are:

✅ Club members, coaches, volunteers, or parents who want to develop their skills and confidence

✅ Interested in taking on leadership roles within their club, committee, county, or national sporting organisation

✅ Ready to contribute more to their club and make a positive difference

✅ Full of potential but may not yet see themselves as leaders

Programme Details

Start Date: 16^thSeptember 2026

Finish Date: 21^st October 2026

Format:

8 modules delivered through a blend of in-person and online learning
6 Wednesday evenings (7.00pm – 9.00pm)
2 Saturdays (10.00am – 4.00pm, lunch included)

Unique Leadership Experience

Participants will take part in a special Equine-Centred Leadership Workshop, offering a unique opportunity to explore leadership styles, build self-awareness and confidence, and unlock individual leadership potential.

Cost: €50 per participant

The programme is heavily subsidised through the Sport Ireland Dormant Accounts Volunteer Support Programme.

Application Deadline: 20^th August 2026

To Register: Complete the Club Nomination Form here → EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM

What You’ll Learn

Alongside inspiring guest speakers who will share their own leadership journeys, participants will explore:

Equine-Centred Leadership
Leadership and personal values
Building confidence and resilience
Networking and collaboration
Managing challenging situations and conversations
Becoming an influential leader
Communication skills and developing your authentic leadership style
Governance in sport and its practical application within clubs
Leading and managing change
Creating a personal development plan for your future leadership journey

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Be nominated by their club
Be aged 18 years or over
Currently volunteer within their club, or be interested in taking on a volunteer role
Commit to attending all programme sessions
Pay the subsidised programme fee of €50

Please note: Once an application is accepted, the €50 programme fee will be payable by the nominating club.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Leadership comes in many forms, and every club has women with the potential to inspire, influence, and lead. This programme is designed to help participants recognise that potential and give them the tools, confidence, and support to thrive.

Register today by completing the Club Nomination Form on the link below.

For more information, visit www.meathsports.ie or contact [insert contact details].

Empowering women in sport. Developing leaders. Strengthening clubs. 💜🏆

For more details contact: Lisa at lodowd@meathcoco.ie

Testimonial: Meath native Gemma Tighe, a previous participant of the programme recommends that women who are looking to develop their confidence and self-belief should consider taking part in the programme. Speaking at the launch of the Women in Leadership course, Gemma says “the course is very informative. I had been at home raising kids for a long time before I got involved in community coaching. The Women in Sport Leadership course just gave me more self-believe to feel more confidence in myself to take on new roles. My advice would be – 100% to do it.”