Sidelines, tramlines and hemlines

LOUTH’S County Museum has announced details for a conference in February on the role of women in Irish Sport.

Sidelines, tramlines and hemlines – Women in Irish Sport is a day-long conference featuring a host of speakers on the experiences and involvement of women in a variety of sports both today and in the past.

According to Curator (and Conference Co-organiser), Brian Walsh: ‘ This event will feature a range of speakers who are either active in sport – as players, officials or administrators – as well as researchers looking at both the way in which games have developed over time as well as their future direction. Sport is an intrinsic part of Irish life, it is a passion that feeds us as individuals and communities.’

The event will be held at the County Museum in Jocelyn Street Dundalk on Friday, February 28th.

The day will begin with contributions from writer and camogie player, Louise Nealon; Leinster and Ireland rugby star, Sene Naoupu; match official, Michelle O’Neill, who will discuss their experiences of sport in their own lives – both personally and professionally. Mary O’Connor (CEO, Federation of Irish Sport) and Nora Stapleton (Sport Ireland) will talk about the changing role of sporting organizations in developing women’s involvement over time.

The later sessions will focus on a diversity of sports both historic and contemporary ranging from women at the Olympics to Gaelic Games, gymnastics to soccer. Co-organiser Helena Byrne, notes that events such as these reflect the strides that sport has made in the past number of years.

Admission to the conference is free but prior booking is essential. Bookings can be made either by contacting the Museum directly at 042 9392999.