Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1302727
44 | AUTUMN 2020 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie 44 | AUTUMN 2020 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie T he LGFA, in collaboration with Cavan Sports Partnership, are implementing the popular Gaelic4Teens Programme in Cavan. This project is part of the Sport Ireland Sports Inclusion Fund. William Harmon, National Development Officer with LGFA, outlines why this initiative was developed – 'This innovative Gaelic4Teens programme was developed as a result of extensive research undertaken by the LGFA with clubs. The programme educates clubs and coaches in relation to the needs and interests of our teenage cohort in our sport. The programme also focuses on key techniques and strategies that help develop coach - athlete relationship' In total eight clubs, are participating in the programme in Cavan, namely Cavan Gaels, Crosserlough, Templeport, Butlersbridge, Belturbet, Ballinagh, Drumlane and Shannon Gaels. The original programme involves four contact days but due to the current pandemic we are experiencing, an alternative approach was needed. In the current format, all clubs involved will have access to a series of educational webinars and self-paced learning modules. Over a 12 week period, the club will also have visits from some of Cavan's Senior Inter County stars. The aim of the educational webinars is to support coaches in trying new content and communication methods in their training sessions. Karen Galligan, programme coordinator, explains the importance of such a programme – 'The research conducted by LGFA reveals that players play for enjoyment, to improve and get better, to keep fit and healthy, to relieve stress and because their friends also play. The reasons highlighted for giving up the sport are that they don't get enough playing time, there is no fun at training, that it is too competitive and that they are treated differently. The coach plays such an important role in creating a positive coaching environment and developing players for the future, hence what prompted the need for such a programme.' The Gaelic4Teens Programme ambassadors present on topics such as coaching behaviour and approach, body image and confidence, lifestyle balance as well how to create a positive coaching club environment to support and guide the coaches. A special emphasis will be on how coaches coach and how they should engage with their players and will be provided with simple ideas on how these can be applied in your everyday coaching sessions. Aisling Maguire, Sports Development Officer for Cavan Local Sports Partnership, expressed her delight with the response from clubs and coaches - 'Cavan Local Sports Partnership aims to increase participation and support clubs and communities to build capacity through education and training. We are delighted to support such an important initiative. It is great to see so many clubs and coaches involved in the programme.' The engagement via the webinars and self-paced modules have been very positive, with up to 40 coaches tuning in from the participating clubs in the initial weeks of the programme. Club visits will be organised during the programme, whereby some of the top players in the County will conduct coaching sessions with players and allow coaches to observe and reflect on good coaching practice and behaviour. GAELIC4TEENS Cavan Gaelic4Teens Sports Inclusion Project – An alternative approach! LGFA Gaelic4Teens ambassador Fiona McHale, right, with participants during the 2019 Gaelic4Teens Activity Day.