National Programme Supporting Female Leaders

GAA Rounders is proud to be represented in the 2026 Gaelic Games ‘Leading Provincial Females’ Programme, a prestigious leadership development initiative delivered by the GAA in partnership with Sport Ireland.

A total of 43 participants from 23 counties have been selected for the 12-month programme, which runs from February to November and is supported by the Sport Ireland Women in Sport Fund. The course is designed to support women aged 18+ in developing their leadership skills both on and off the field, combining face-to-face sessions with online learning across areas such as coaching, officiating, administration, and PR/media.

Strong Representation from GAA Rounders

Among those selected are two dedicated members of the GAA Rounders Ard Chomhairle — Shirley Lennon (National Secretary, Dunderry, Meath) and Treasurer Margaret Doyle (Kilrush Askamore, Wexford). Their inclusion highlights the growing recognition of the vital role Rounders plays within the wider Gaelic Games community.

Margaret Doyle, Kilrush Askamore shared her thoughts on being selected for the programme:

”I was delighted to be selected for the leading provincial females programme as it offers a valuable opportunity to further develop skills and gain new perspectives on supporting others. It will help strengthen communication, teamwork and decision-making, while also providing the benefit of shared learning”

Speaking about her experience so far, Shirley Lennon shared her enthusiasm for the programme:

“Serving as the National Secretary for GAA Rounders and Club Secretary for Royal Rounders, I am eager to refine my skills in volunteer management and effective leadership within an amateur sporting body. Day 1 was truly inspirational; it challenged us to analyse our individual leadership styles and identify specific areas for personal and professional growth.

It was a privilege to meet so many fantastic women – trailblazers who are not only leading their clubs but also performing the vital, often unseen, work that forms the backbone of the GAA. I am looking forward to the upcoming modules and am excited to apply these new insights to my dual roles at both club and national levels.”

Recognition from GAA Rounders Leadership

GAA Rounders President Paula Doherty also welcomed the news, highlighting the importance of strong female leadership within the association:

“I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to all participants selected for the 2026 Leading Provincial Females Programme. For GAA Rounders, strong female leadership has always been central to our growth, from the development of clubs to the rise in competitive standards nationwide. This programme represents an invaluable opportunity for women in GAA Rounders to enhance their confidence, strengthen their voice within our sport, and bring fresh leadership back to their teams and communities.

We are proud to see GAA Rounders represented in the 2026 cohort, and we look forward to the energy, innovation, and ambition these leaders will bring to our association.”

Developing Leaders for the Future

The programme includes a series of in-person sessions at the beginning, midpoint, and conclusion, alongside ongoing modules and webinars designed to deepen participants’ understanding of leadership. It offers a unique opportunity for women across Gaelic Games to connect, learn, and grow as leaders.

The inclusion of Shirley Lennon and Margaret Doyle marks an exciting step forward for GAA Rounders, reinforcing the association’s commitment to developing strong, capable leaders who will shape the future of the sport at both club and national level.