Carlow Sports Partnership > Introducing Carlow Sports Partnership

Introduction

Maximising our sports potential

As Coordinator of Co Carlow Sports Partnership, it gives me great pleasure to present the Sports Development Action Plan 2008 - 2010, which is the first strategic plan for sports development in Co Carlow. Over the past 18 months, Co Carlow Sports Partnership has made significant progress in the development of sport locally, through the roll-out of national and local participation programmes, training and education workshops, funding support and research reports. The Partnership has developed strong links with local agencies, national schools, community groups and sports clubs - all of whom have contributed to the development of this strategy document. Through a variety of consultation workshops, targeted focus groups, questionnaires etc, we have given all the key stakeholders an opportunity to submit their views. We are very grateful to all of the individuals and groups who took the time and effort to participate in our consultation process.

Evidence suggests that participating in sporting activities increases people's sense of integration into their local community in both urban and rural areas. It enables youngsters, in particular, to channel their energy, competitiveness and aggression in a personally and socially beneficial way. In the countryside, many sports such as canoeing and mountaineering, contribute to health and sustainability of the rural economy. Improving sports facilities and hosting sporting events can modernise an area's image and improve local self esteem. Sport also has a positive impact on physical and psychological wellbeing. Of course sports activities would simply not take place if it wasn’t for the many hard working volunteers. The value and contribution of volunteers in sport cannot be underestimated, making a massive contribution as coaches, administrators, managers and officials. County Carlow Sports Partnership is committed to increasing the recognition given to voluntary workers in sport and supporting them through education and training.

I would like to thank my colleagues, Sandra Corrigan, ( Sports Partnership Administrator ), and Jenna Doyle, ( Sports Inclusion Disability Officer ), for their assistance, support and hard work in preparing this document. Special thanks go to the Chairperson and Board of Management for their ongoing support and advice. I also wish to acknowledge Strategic Leisure Limited and Jim Sanderson who facilitated the strategic planning process. I am delighted to be involved in the roll out of this action plan to develop sport in my home county of Carlow.