Carlow Sports Partnership > initiatives
Initiatives
Maximising our sports potential
In the short time that County Carlow Sports Partnership has been in existence significant progress has been made in a number of areas to support clubs, provide advice and training to volunteers and promote sport and increase participation through national and local programmes. Strong links have been developed with local agencies, national schools, community groups and sports clubs. The following list outlines some of the many key initiatives to date.
Sport and recreation needs analysis
The Carlow Sports Partnership working group completed a sport and physical recreation needs analysis for County Carlow in 2005 assisted by McDonagh Consultants. The report provides a comprehensive overview of physical recreation needs of people in County Carlow and in particular it considers current participation and provision from the perspective of low participation groups. This information was used as the basis for the development of the Sports Development Strategic Plan for County Carlow.
Audit of indoor community and sports facilities
Sports Partnership worked in conjunction with Carlow Community and Voluntary Forum to carry out an audit of indoor community and sports facilities available for use. This research project identified opportunities for facilities development and highlighted black spots to enable improved targeting of development efforts. It also identified opportunities to develop linkages for shared facility use between schools, clubs, and communities. This information was complied into a booklet format and is available from the Sports Partnership office.
Sports volunteer awards
The local sports volunteer awards event was held on the 25th April 2007 to recognise the contributions and achievements of nine local volunteers in sport including coaches, administrators, officials and leaders. The nine nominees each received a special commerative award from Sean Kelly, former President of the GAA, and current CEO of the Irish Institute of Sport.
Sports festival for older adults
The sports festival for older adults, a joint initiative between CANDO Community Partnership and County Carlow Sports Partnership, was held on the 6th June 2007 in Carlow Lawn Tennis Club. Each of the thirty participants got to try out a number of different activities, such as 10 pin bowling, short mat bowls, petanque, line dancing, sit fit etc. This event was the culmination of a series of eight go for life physical activity leader workshops for older people.
Volunteer and coach support
The sports partnership assists coaches and volunteers through education and information. Over 305 people have taken part in sports partnership training and workshops to date. The training and workshops cover a range of topics such as:
- Child Protection - Basic Awareness and Children's Officer Training.
- Swim helper training.
- Defibrillator training.
- Speed Agility and Quickness Courses
- Sports First Aid
- Sports Nutrition
- Assistant Swim Teachers Training
For more information, feel free to contact Carlow Sports Partnership. Contact us…