Photo Credit: Cricket Ireland
Cricket Ireland is delighted to announce that applications for the “On the Front Foot” leadership development programme are now open.
Established in 2020, and supported by the Sport Ireland Women in Sport fund, the initiative has been designed to empower and engage females in the sport as leaders through a programme of activity aiming 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 participantRashi Mukhopadhayay from Cork County Cricket Club, 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, Rashi has been appointed onto the Women and Girls Committee for Munster Cricket Union where she is having a strong influence in the direction and growth of the game across the region.
Elaine Nolan, Director of Growth and Strategy at Cricket Ireland, highlighted the value of the programme and why its important for females in cricket to get involved:
“Since we started, we’ve seen women of all experience levels join the programme. 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 as well as the mentoring. It gives participants space 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.”
Interested female cricket club members over the age of 18 can find more information and apply by Friday, 23 August at www.cricket-programmes.com/on-the-front-foot.
More information:
ON THE FRONT FOOT FEMALE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
Who is it for?
- The programme is free and open to all women over 18 involved in cricket, including players, coaches, volunteers, activators and administrators.
What’s involved?
- Timing: September 2024 to March 2025
- Format: Six online 90-minute sessions in the evenings and two in-person Saturdays at the Sport Ireland Institute in Dublin.
What do I get?
- Delivered in partnership with Carrie Archer, a graduate and former mentor of the programme.
- Content designed to challenge thinking and build personal and professional growth
- Guest sessions with leaders and experts in cricket.
- Mentorship opportunities.
- Connection with a network of future female leaders in cricket
How do I submit an application?
- Apply at www.cricket-programmes.com/on-the-front-foot by 5pm, 23 August 2024.
Name of Author: Cricket Ireland
Cricket Ireland, officially known as The Irish Cricket Union Company Limited by Guarantee, is the governing body for cricket on the island of Ireland. It oversees the national men’s and women’s teams and organizes the Inter-Provincial Series, Super 3s, and All-Ireland club competitions. Ireland achieved Test status for women in 2000 and for men in 2017 when it became a Full Member of the ICC.
