Louth LGFA & Dundalk IT launch innovative female health programme

Louth LGFA and Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) have partnered to create an innovative programme aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of female athletes. The partnership was established to gain a deeper understanding of female health and physiology to better support players throughout their careers, as participation in Gaelic Games among girls and women continues to rise.

The new programme will offer a series of workshops for players, ranging from U14 to senior squads, with a focus on educating and raising awareness about crucial health topics such as the menstrual cycle, breast health, pelvic health, and injury risk and prevention. Additionally, support for pre- and post-natal exercise, as well as strategies for returning to play, will be provided. Coaches and Female Liaison Officers will also participate in educational sessions to help them create a more supportive environment for their female players.

This initiative builds on the work of the LGFA, Camogie Ireland, and the SHE Research Centre at TUS, whose 2024 publication of the Female Athlete Toolkit highlighted the need for support around common female health challenges such as menstrual cycle dysfunction, breast pain, and pelvic floor issues, which can impact participation and performance in sport. The goal is to empower athletes to openly discuss these challenges and seek help when necessary, while also equipping coaches with the knowledge to identify potential issues and guide players toward appropriate support.

Brian Lynch, Development Officer with Louth LGFA said: "In working with DkIT, we now have a superb foundation to build and grow Louth LGFA."

Fiona Hackett, Lecturer in Health and Physical Activity in DkIT said:

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“We have more research and resources in the female athlete health space than ever before, but what we really want to focus on now is translating this research into practice and embedding these resources into how we coach and support female athletes. I am a firm believer that performance is built upon a foundation of health and male and female athletes face very different health challenges. I am really excited that Louth LGFA have recognised the importance of embedding female athlete health education within their organisation and I am really looking forward to rolling out this programme in the coming months.”

The Female Athlete Health Programme is part of a broader collaboration between Louth LGFA and DkIT. A Sports Scholarship Scheme for Louth LGFA players entering third level education has been running for the past three years, supported by Dundalk Credit Union. This provides Louth footballers with academic and athletic supports and allows players to develop their potential both on and off the field.

A pilot Schools Development Programme will also be trialled this year. This initiative will involve a third-year BSc Health and Physical Activity placement student delivering Gaelic Football coaching sessions in three secondary schools across County Louth, aiming to introduce first-year girls to Gaelic Football and the fundamentals of strength and conditioning. This partnership underscores Louth LGFA and DkIT's commitment to promoting the growth of Gaelic Games among girls and advancing the standard of football in the county.