The Ladies Gaelic Football Association has launched Spreag Í, a new national programme aimed at supporting teenage players and strengthening long-term participation in the women’s and girls’ game.
Running from February to June 2026, the initiative will be delivered through clubs across Ireland and will focus on Under 14 and Under 16 players, an age group widely recognised as critical for retention in youth sport.
The programme is designed to enhance the enjoyment of Ladies Gaelic Football while building confidence, teamwork and healthy lifestyle habits.
Each selected club will receive two visits from a Spreag Í Facilitator, all of whom are current or former LGFA intercounty players. The programme blends on-pitch activity with workshop-style engagement, structured around four key themes: Being My Best Self, Being a Good Teammate, Developing a Healthy Lifestyle, and Grá for the Game.
Between visits, clubs will engage with the LGFA Teenage Kicks programme, which allows teenagers to play the game in flexible, social formats that prioritise enjoyment, empowerment and independence.
Spreag Í reflects a strategic investment in sustainable participation, recognising that long-term growth depends on addressing dropout among teenagers. The programme also reinforces the LGFA’s commitment to leadership development and wellbeing alongside performance.
The facilitator panel includes intercounty players from across the country, ensuring national reach and strong role modelling within clubs. The programme will culminate by the end of June 2026, following a minimum four-week engagement period between visits to allow Teenage Kicks activity to take place.
Club applications close on Sunday, January 25th, 2026, with an online information session scheduled for February 9th. With places limited, demand is expected to be strong.
Spreag Í positions the LGFA at the forefront of holistic youth development in Irish sport, placing enjoyment, confidence and lifelong engagement at the centre of the player pathway.
Image Credit: Ladies Gaelic Football Association
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