The Women’s Gaelic Players Association (WGPA) presented 37 scholarships at a special event held yesterday in the offices of PwC in Dublin.
The scholarships have been awarded to third-level students across 10 different colleges who play intercounty Camogie and Ladies Football. This is the third year of scholarships presented by the WGPA, which now represents over 1,300 members.
The scholarship scheme recognises the efforts of our members in pursuing a dual career, enabling them to focus their attention on taking opportunities for ongoing personal and professional development whilst striving for excellence as athletes.
With the workload and commitment given to studies and their sport, it can be difficult for students to support themselves, so the aim of the scholarship programme is to help players balance the demands of being a student and an athlete.
Undergraduate and postgraduate students both feature among the recipients from 19 counties, including Galway All Star Aoife O’Donohue, Mayo’s Sarah Rowe and Cork dual-star, Libby Coppinger.
Personal Development
“Encouraging continued personal development is a key aim for the WGPA,” said WGPA Chair Aoife Lane, speaking at a special lunch where the players and their families were recognised for the work they put in and the support they give.
“We want to stress to our members they can realise their potential both on and off the pitch and that we are here to help them in the process if they wish to pursue an academic route.”
“We always want to encourage players to maintain the balance between their sport, academic studies and life as a student. These scholarships aim to make that process a little easier and we’re delighted to be able to offer a helping hand.”
“We owe special thanks to ICON and PwC for their ongoing invaluable support. Their backing for our members reflects our shared values in nurturing and celebrating young talent, encouraging people to grow into the best version of themselves. Our members are role models to young girls across the country and we want to highlight their skills and character as individuals that everyone can aspire to.”
“Our priority is to support player number 30 on the panel as much as numbers one to fifteen.”
“There are an increasing number of applications for the scholarships which are awarded based on competitive criteria.”
“Even the telling of your own story as part of this helps to increase belief and self confidence, as well as the benefits that especially apply to those who are successful.”
“Success in sport and in the workplace requires commitment to a shared set of values, along with determination, hard work and the right mindset to achieve excellence,” added Feargal O’Rourke, PwC Managing Partner.
“PwC and the WGPA have similar goals to support their people to be the best they can be no matter what the challenge. We congratulate everyone today on their superb achievements and wish them success in the future.”
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Image credit: Morgan Treacy, Inpho Photography
