Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1466433
60 | SPRING 2022 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie Catriona Sweeney, Burt, County Donegal, Ulster I got involved to further develop my skills in the area of administration as this is an area I have been involved in for many years with both club and county. I felt this was an excellent opportunity to be a part of and to work alongside others in different roles for club and county throughout the country. From this, I was able to learn from their experiences. I found the experience to be very rewarding and it opened my eyes to the challenges facing us all on a daily basis. Through workshops and peer learning, I was able to gain invaluable knowledge from others. As Club Secretary, County Cultural Officer and Referee Administrator for LGFA, all of these are different in nature but require the same level of commitment and dedication- the programme further developed my leadership skills in these roles and developed my confidence to become an assertive leader and decision maker. Hazel Davern, St. Aibhes, County Limerick, Munster I have engaged in this short six-month course and wish it did not stop. The facilitators, guest speakers and information that unfold over the length of the course has reignited the spark that I was beginning to question in relation to physical education (my work), as a player, as a coach and as a committee member. This course has helped me to really understand how a club should be run- not only in the eyes of committee members but to re highlight what is important about the club- our players and the way we represent ourselves within the community of LGFA. This course has helped me realise where I want to go moving forward- where I would like to be positioned in the club and what progressions or changes need to occur so our club can flourish to the best it can. From the lens of a coach to the lens of parents trying to help; to the top members looking over how LGFA is run in our provinces- this course will help you, your club, your county to plan, organise and run LGFA in the most positive way it can for our players. Dervila Hurley, Glinsk, County Galway, Connacht On commencing the programme, I didn't have many expectations nor much knowledge of the capabilities and power that leading females have within the LGFA. However, I was quickly awoken to the fact that many women like myself feel as though we shouldn't share our knowledge due to our own limitations and beliefs, as well as others. I was taught how to overcome difficult situations that have hindered me from sharing my knowledge with others. I have built amazing connections and lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals who are driven by the common goal of enforcing positive female leadership within the LGFA. Not only have I learnt strong leadership skills, but I was also forced to acknowledge my own personal difficulties that prevent me from excelling in many aspects of my life. For example, I had to learn to let go of my fear of doubt and acknowledge that I have self-confidence and self-belief which allowed me to excel in self reinforcement. I thank Niamh and her team for all their hard work and effort, and I congratulate every one of the amazing female leaders that will be encouraging others in the future. LEADING PROVINCIAL FEMALES