To mark International Women’s Day 2017 Sport for Business caught up with a number of the brands investing in and strongly supporting Women in Sport in Ireland.

Continental Tyres have been partners of the Women’s Football here since 2014, echoing the support they give in England and Germany.

“We’re committed to our partnership in women’s football in Ireland as we enter our fourth season as its main commercial partner,” said Continental Tyres Marketing Communications Manager Peter Robb speaking exclusively yesterday to Sport for Business.

“Our FAI partnership extends to the men’s game but since our relationship commenced in 2014, we have chosen to activate primarily in the women’s game, simply because it makes more commercial sense for our brand in Ireland.”

“From the very start of our relationship with football, our core brand values of premium, safety and performance continue to stand firm and our partnership in Irish women’s football is hugely important at a time of huge transitioning for women’s sport. We at Continental want to continue to facilitate and empower change where and when possible.”

“As we continue to grow our brand awareness through our football credentials, in turn we aim to promote, grow and build the profile of the women’s game here as the journey continues.”

“We always knew that we couldn’t do it alone and have focused our energies on engaging with players and stakeholders to encourage creative synergies and a natural development for one another.”

“At present, we’re encouraged to see real change take place in women’s football here with standout success stories such as Stephanie Roches’ Puskás nomination; witnessing women’s national league teams representing the Ireland in Europe; increased attendances at our games and a more professional social content approach.”

“More recently, the appointment of new Women’s National Team head coach, Colin Bell signifies real development in women’s football here and once again the leagues development is paramount to supplying the next crop of superstars and role models in Irish football.”

“For the year ahead, we will continue to utilise our partnership to grow our Irish market share.”

Sport for Business will be live at the launch of the 2017 Continental Tyres Women’s National League taking place at the Aviva Stadium on Friday, March 10th.