Skip to main content

Women in Sport

Women in Sport (WIS) is Sport Ireland’s national programme dedicated to increasing women’s and girls’ participation, visibility, and leadership in sport across Ireland. It guides policy, funds initiatives, and drives cultural change to ensure equitable opportunities at all levels of sport. 

Core Purpose of Sport Ireland’s WIS Programme 

  • Increase the visibility of women in sport — a key pillar of the national WIS Policy.  
  • Promote, celebrate, and support women and girls in sport at every level, from grassroots through elite performance.  
  • Address inequalities, including participation gaps, representation, and resource distribution.  

Women in Sport Week? 

Women in Sport Week is an annual campaign designed to celebrate, promote, and increase the visibility of women and girls in sport at every level—from grassroots participation to elite performance. It highlights achievements, addresses persistent inequalities, and encourages more women and girls to get active. 

Women in Sport Week is held in March, aligning with International Women’s Day. 

1. Increase female participation in sport 
The week encourages women and girls of all ages and backgrounds to take part in physical activity—whether playing, coaching, volunteering, or simply trying out something new. 

2. Promote visibility and media representation 
Improving how frequently and prominently women’s sport appears in media is a key aim. 

3. Celebrate achievements 
Women in Sport Week showcases the success of female athletes and teams across all levels, recognising their contribution and inspiring future generations.  

4. Highlight gender inequalities 
The campaign raises awareness of the challenges women still face in sport—including gaps in participation, funding, resources, and leadership opportunities.  

5. Encourage community engagement 
Local clubs, schools, and organisations run events, workshops, and challenges to get more women involved and spark conversation around gender equality in sport.  

For further information, please contact development.handball@gaa.ie