Cricket Ireland has opened up applications for the latest “On the Front Foot” leadership development programme.
Established in 2020 and supported by the Sport Ireland Women in Sport fund, the initiative has been designed to empower and engage female athletes as leaders through a programme of activities that aims to enhance innovation, creativity, and leadership capabilities.
Now entering its fourth year, the successful programme has already seen over 30 women advance their leadership roles in cricket, impacting the sport at various levels, from local clubs to the international game and national governance.
This network of women are not just leading on the field but in all aspects of cricket – as coaches, administrators, referees, activators and at governance and Board level.
The programme is free and applications are open to female cricket club members over the age of 18 involved in any aspect of the sport. This includes players, coaches, volunteers, administrators, activators and more.
“Just apply”, says former participant Rashi Mukhopadhyay from Cork County Cricket Club and Munster Cricket Union, who participated in the 2023 programme.
“Don’t think about it. Just apply and be part of an amazing programme. You are not just going to grow your own self, but you are going to make an impact on the Girls and Women around you.”
Since her involvement, Mukhopadhyay has been appointed to the Women and Girls Committee for the Munster Cricket Union, where she has a strong influence on the direction and growth of the game across the region.
“Since we started, we’ve seen women of all experience levels join the programme,” added Elaine Nolan, Director of Growth and Strategy at Cricket Ireland.
“It’s not just for players; it’s for anyone who cares about cricket and wants to progressively shape and be involved in its future.”
“We know many females are working hard to promote and support the sport at club and national level. This programme is designed to empower them further, accelerating their journey of involvement within cricket.”
“What’s very powerful about the programme is the peer-to-peer connections that are made and the mentoring. It allows participants to discuss experiences, challenges and learning in a safe and supportive environment. It builds confidence, equips them with strategies to have an impact and also provides a supportive network they can lean on and learn from.”
“We are looking forward to this year’s programme and hope to see women from all across Ireland getting involved.”
Sport for Business will host its Annual Women in Sport Conference on Thursday, November 28th. This is one of many events planned for the remainder of 2024.
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