Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1437906
58 | WINTER 2021 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie Development LGFA Learn to Lead strand: Coaching Bernie Durkan, Kilcock LGFA, Co. Kildare What attracted you to the Learn to Lead programme? I applied for the Learn to Lead programme as I think it is important that we develop females as coaches within the LGFA. I think it is important to challenge yourself to be the best that you can be and push yourself outside of your comfort zone. I also thought it would be a good way for me to give back to my own LGFA community, who have always been so supportive to me. What has been the highlight of the programme so far? The highlight of the programme so far has been connecting with other like- minded female coaches - it has been amazing to connect with, listen to and learn from the experiences of others. The programme also encourages you to reflect on yourself, learn about yourself as a person and reflect on the experiences that have shaped you as a coach - a really insightful journey. Have you specific leadership qualities that you want to develop while on the programme? The role of communication is something I think is essential as an effective leader and LGFA coach. I want to focus on developing my communication skills so that I can deliver a simple message in a clear and effective way. As a coach, I feel it is important for me, as a leader, to empower the athletes I work with to develop their communication skills also. Learn to Lead Quick-fire questions with four of the 21/22 Learn to Lead participants What was your favourite personal moment of your LGFA role in 2021? My favourite personal moment of 2021 was winning the Kildare Intermediate Championship with Kilcock in 2021. Although I was playing, the fact that I had coached a lot of the girls as they moved up through the underage ranks in the club makes it an even more memorable experience. The minor team that I coach also made it to the county final and what I loved about that coaching experience was getting to know the U16 club girls and challenging and supporting them on their journey at minor level. What are you most looking forward to in 2022? In 2022, I am looking forward to completing the Learn to Lead programme and encouraging and challenging myself to use the skills I have developed on the programme. I will continue to coach within my school and club and hopefully get back to a somewhat 'normal' LGFA season. Who are your LGFA role models? I have been lucky enough to have played football at home and in London over the past number of years. From my club Kilcock, Sheena Byrne and Therese Macken are fantastic role models and it is brilliant to see their children encouraging them from the sidelines. I regard all my teammates from the 2012 Parnells, London team as role models. We all made great sacrifices moving to London and the effort, dedication and commitment we put into creating a football family away from home will always stay with me. The LGFA has made some significant progress over the past decade – what are the most important changes you have seen? The most important changes I have seen is the success from the development of programmes such as 'Gaelic4Girls', 'Gaelic4Teens' and ' Gaelic4Mothers&Others' in terms of encouraging girls and women to participate and continue playing LGFA. My own club ran a successful 'Gaelic for Girls' programme this summer and it was an inspiring experience to be involved as a coach. All Ireland attendances, LGFA coverage in the media, Coach development programmes and working towards a level of equality with our male counterparts have also seen significant progress, which is great to see F E M A L E L E A D E R S H I P P R O G R A M M E