Louth LGFA has teamed up with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) to launch an innovative new programme focused on improving the health and wellbeing of female athletes. The partnership is aimed at enhancing the understanding of female physiology and addressing health issues specific to women in sport, as participation in Gaelic Games among girls and women continues to grow.
The programme will offer a series of workshops targeting players from U14 to senior squads, with the goal of educating athletes on key health topics. These include the menstrual cycle, breast health, pelvic health, and strategies for injury risk prevention. Additionally, support for pre- and post-natal exercise, as well as guidance on returning to play after injury, will be provided.
The initiative also includes educational sessions for coaches and Female Liaison Officers, enabling them to foster a more supportive environment for their female athletes. This aligns with the ongoing work of the LGFA, the Camogie Association, and the SHE Research Centre at TUS, whose 2024 publication of the Female Athlete Toolkit emphasized the need for tailored support around issues like menstrual cycle dysfunction, breast pain, and pelvic floor problems, which can hinder participation and performance in sports.
The programme aims to empower female athletes to openly address health challenges and seek help when needed. It also helps coaches gain the knowledge to identify potential issues early and guide players toward appropriate resources.
Fiona Hackett, a Lecturer in Health and Physical Activity at DkIT, expressed her excitement about the initiative: “We now have more research and resources in female athlete health than ever before, but our focus now is on translating this research into practice. Performance is built on a foundation of health, and male and female athletes face different health challenges. I’m thrilled that Louth LGFA recognizes the importance of embedding female athlete health education.”
The Female Athlete Health Programme is part of a broader collaboration between Louth LGFA and DkIT. The partnership has already supported Louth footballers through a Sports Scholarship Scheme for players entering third-level education, running for the past three years with support from Dundalk Credit Union. This initiative provides academic and athletic support, enabling players to excel both on and off the field.
In addition, a pilot Schools Development Programme will be trialed this year, involving a third-year BSc Health and Physical Activity student delivering Gaelic Football coaching sessions in three secondary schools across County Louth. The goal is to introduce first-year girls to Gaelic Football and foundational strength and conditioning principles.
This partnership further demonstrates Louth LGFA and DkIT’s commitment to promoting the growth of Gaelic Games among girls and improving the standard of football in the county.
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