Lyn Savage stepped into one of the most influential positions in Irish women’s sport when she became Chief Executive Officer of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association in March 2026, succeeding Helen O’Rourke after 28 years at the helm.
Her appointment followed 18 years with the Association, where she had overseen national development programmes spanning coaching, participation, volunteering and player pathways.
A former Louth intercounty footballer, Savage won All-Ireland Junior and Intermediate titles in 1998 and 1999, bringing player perspective alongside her extensive administrative experience.
She now leads the LGFA at a defining point in the proposed integration of Gaelic games, balancing opportunities for closer collaboration with the need to protect the identity and continued development of ladies football.
Her deep understanding of the organisation, from grassroots clubs to national governance, positions her to help shape the next chapter of one of Ireland’s largest female sporting associations.
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Previously named: Dr Una May, Suzanne Eade, Karen Dessain-Gelinet, Sarah Keane, Karen Coventry, Katie Taylor
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This is the 14th year we have listed 50 Women of Influence in Irish Sport. We will add new names daily through early December.
We have an open nomination process, and you can nominate potential additions until our closing date of November 10th, 2026.
Our definition of influence is broad and includes those making a difference in how sport is governed, managed, and brought to life. This year’s list will include CEO’s, leaders, founders, coaches, storytellers and more. To highlight those who may be less familiar, we deliberately exclude those who are still active players in their sport.
We’ll host our Annual Women in Sport Conference at Lidl HQ on Tuesday, December 1st, featuring a range of national and international speakers and a room full of inspiring guests.
To reserve your place, you can book a ticket below.
AIG and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association are full members of the Sport for Business community of sporting, business, and state organisations.
If you would like to join the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the daily conversation around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
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