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Men’s Health Week Grant Open for Applications!

Published: May 22, 2025

A promotional image for Men’s Health Week 2025, taking place from Monday 9th to Sunday 15th June. The central photo shows five men standing side by side with arms around each other’s shoulders, facing away from the camera in a show of unity. Below the image is the campaign slogan: “Shoulder-to-Shoulder | Connecting for Health”. Text invites people to find out more at www.mhfi.org. Logos of supporting organisations appear along the bottom: Men’s Health Week, HSE, Men’s Health Forum in Ireland, Healthy Ireland, and the Public Health Agency.

Men’s Health Week (MHW) 2025 GRANT – NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS!
We are delighted to announce the launch of a Men’s Health Week 2025 Grant Scheme.

Sports clubs and organisations can apply for a maximum of €500 to run a 4-week programme over an 8-week period, starting in Men’s Health Week (9th June 2025) and ending 10 August 2025. These programmes should focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing through physical activity and connection.

Please read the GRANT CRITERIA before completing the application.
Check out these SAMPLE ANSWERS which may be of help to you!

COMPLETE THE ONLINE GRANT APPLICATIION HERE

Closing date for receipt of applications is 9am on Tuesday 3rd June 2025
Applicants will be notified of the Grant Committee’s decision by 4pm on Friday 6th June 2025

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Thomas on 086 206 1083 or email tshawhamilton@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

 

Men’s Health Week Grant 2025 | Criteria

Published: May 21, 2025

Men’s Health Week Grant 2025 | Criteria

As part of Men’s Health Week 2025, Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) is inviting sports clubs/organisations and community groups to apply for funding to support the delivery of participation programmes aimed at engaging men in sport or physical activity. This programme must run for 4 weeks between an 8-week period from Monday 9th June 2025 – Sunday 10th August 2025.

This grant is part of WSP’s ongoing commitment to increasing opportunities for all to engage in physical activity — with a specific focus on supporting men who are currently inactive, socially isolated, or underrepresented in sport.

GRANT CRITERIA

  • The programme must consist of weekly physical activity sessions for men over a 4-week period, starting between Monday June 9th 2025 and Sunday  10th August 2025.
  • The maximum grant available is €500 per club/organisation. If successful, 100% of the approved funding will be transferred to the club bank account upon receipt of WSP partner agreement and bank details. The club/organisation must meet with WSP SDO before programme start to discuss programme plan and exact programme costs. The club/organisation must meet with WSP SDO after programme with an in-depth programme report detailing attendance, feedback, learnings etc. All invoices/receipts must be attached to programme report. Failure to meet any of these terms will result in the club/organisation being disqualified from any further WSP grants.
  • The sessions must be free of charge for participants.
  • The programme must promote inclusive, welcoming environments to support men of all ages and abilities.
  • The application must demonstrate how the grant will be used to increase male participation and provide a sustainable pathway for continued engagement.
  • The programme must be promoted and advertised by the sports club and reference WSP on any promotional material
  • Applicants must ensure that all activities are delivered by people who possess relevant qualifications and that all activities are covered by relevant club/group insurance.

WHO CAN APPLY?

  • Any sports club affiliated to a Sport Ireland recognised National Governing Body and is based in Waterford City or County.
  • Community Groups, Men’s Sheds, or Disability Services based in Waterford City or County.

WHO CANNOT APPLY?

  • Individuals
  • Commercial Organisations
  • Private Facility Owners
  • National/Regional Governing Bodies
  • For-profit groups

TO BE ELIGIBLE, APPLICANTS MUST:

  • Be open to new male participants and offer a sustainable pathway for the men to continue their physical activity journey.
  • Have appropriate insurance and be compliant with all safeguarding and Garda vetting requirements and ensure activities are being delivered by an appropriately qualified person. Successful organisations will be asked to complete a WSP partner agreement.
  • Have drawn down all previous WSP funding, if applicable.
  • Agree to partner with a WSP Sports Development Officer for support, monitoring, and follow-up.
  • Submit receipts/invoices post-programme for reimbursement.

ELIGIBLE COSTS:

✔ Promotion & Marketing Materials
✔ Hire of Exercise Professional / Coach
✔ Venue Hire (if applicable)
✔ Basic Equipment specific to the activity
✔ Light Refreshments (e.g., tea/coffee/snack post-session)

INELIGIBLE COSTS:

✖ Team Jerseys or Clothing
✖ Annual Club Operational Costs
✖ Insurance Fees
✖ Capital Expenses or Infrastructure
✖ Cameras, Audio Systems, Speakers
✖ Hospitality Costs (bars/restaurants)

PLEASE NOTE:

  • Successful clubs must comply with WSP publicity requests, including photo permissions and media promotion.
  • All successful applicants will sign a Partner Agreement Form confirming compliance with vetting and safeguarding standards.
  • Funding will be transferred post-delivery upon receipt of invoices/receipts.
  • Retrospective costs (before the date of approval) are not covered.
  • A short post-programme report will be required.

DEADLINE & DECISION DATES:

  • Closing Date: 9:00am Tuesday 3rd June 2025
  • Successful applicants notified by: 16:00 Friday 6th June 2025
  • Programme delivery window: Monday 9th June 2025 – Sunday 10th August 2025.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 
Please call Thomas Shaw-Hamilton, Community Sports Development Officer on 086 206 1083

 

Sample MHW Grant Application Ideas

Published: May 21, 2025

HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF GRANT APPLICATION WORDINGS


EXAMPLE 1:

Club Name: Dungarvan Seagles Frisbee golf club.

Describe the proposed expenditure of Grant funding:
Plan and deliver a free, 4-week Frisbee Fitness for Men programme aimed at men aged 25–55. This will be held every Wednesday evening from 700 – 800pm in the club grounds. We will advertise this across our relevant platforms for new members.

How will the expenditure increase participation?
The grant will be used to cover coaching, equipment, promotion, and refreshments — all of which are key to creating an accessible, enjoyable, and welcoming experience for new participants. By removing financial barriers, offering a beginner-friendly environment, and promoting social connection, we aim to attract men who may not otherwise engage in sport.
We expect many participants will remain engaged with the club beyond the programme.

Costing Breakdown (please give details of costs of expenditure):

Coach/Facilitator Fees: €200 Payment for a qualified Ultimate Frisbee coach to deliver 4 x 90-minute sessions at €50 per session.

Frisbee Golf Equipment: €150 Purchase of 20 beginner-friendly frisbee discs (€5 each) and 4 portable disc golf targets (€30 each.

Promotional Materials: €50 Design and printing of 50 posters and 100 flyers, plus social media promotion to target men in the Dungarvan area.

Refreshments: €100 Tea, coffee, and light snacks for participants after each session to encourage social

Total Projected Spend: €500


EXAMPLE 2:

Club Name: Blackwater Paddlers Kayak Club

Describe the proposed expenditure of Grant funding:
Deliver a free, 4-week Kayak programme for Men’s Health aimed at men aged 30–65. The sessions will focus on beginner-friendly kayaking skills in a safe, supportive environment, combined with post-paddle social time to promote connection and wellbeing. This will happen every Saturday morning for four weeks between 1000 – 1200 with a group of 8 men with 2 club coaches delivering the session.

How will the expenditure increase participation?
The funding will allow us to eliminate cost barriers by covering equipment hire, instructor fees, and refreshments. This makes it easier for men who are new to the sport — or returning to activity after illness, injury, or life changes — to take part without pressure. The combination of physical activity and social connection is designed to support mental health and build lasting habits. We aim to introduce at least 8 men to the sport and retain a number of them as ongoing members after the programme by offering discounted club membership.

Costing Breakdown (please give details of costs of expenditure):

Instructor Fees: €400
Qualified kayaking instructor to lead 4 x1 -hour sessions (€100 per session)

Equipment Rental: €100
Kayaks, paddles, and buoyancy aids for 4 weeks for up to 10 participants

Total Projected Spend: €500


EXAMPLE 3:

Club Name: ABC GAA Club

Describe the proposed expenditure of Grant funding:
We’re planning a relaxed, 4-week Social Hurling for Men series designed to bring lads back onto the pitch — whether they haven’t picked up a hurley in 20 years or just want a runaround without the pressure. The idea is to keep it light, fun, and social, with short skill-based games followed by a cup of tea and a chat in the clubhouse. The session will be once a week for four weeks, delivered by our qualified GAA coach in the club. We’ll use the funding to cover programme equipment, coaching, promo materials, and refreshments.

How will the expenditure increase participation?
We’ve noticed there are plenty of men in the area — especially aged 35+ — who miss the game but don’t feel comfortable rejoining formal teams. This programme is a social way for them to reconnect with sport, neighbours, and themselves. By taking the competition out of it and making it about enjoyment and connection, we hope to reach men who may be dealing with stress, isolation, or just need a reason to get out of the house. We’re confident some will keep coming back, either socially or to help around the club and if successful, will aim to continue this programme post four weeks.

Costing Breakdown (please give details of costs of expenditure):
Coach/Facilitator Fees: €200
Payment for a GAA coach or qualified former player to lead 4 x 1-hour social hurling sessions (€50 per session)

Equipment: €140
Purchase of 10 adult-sized hurleys (€10 each) and 10 soft sliotars for safer play (€4 each), to be kept by the club

Promotional Materials: €60
Posters, flyers, and online ads to spread the word around Galbally and surrounding parishes

Refreshments: €100
Tea, sandwiches, and biscuits after each session to encourage social time and conversation

Total Projected Spend: €500


EXAMPLE 4:

Club Name: Men’s Shed

Describe the proposed expenditure of Grant funding:

We’re planning a 4-week Back to Fitness programme tailored for our members, many of whom are seeking gentle ways to reintroduce physical activity into their routines. The sessions will be led by a qualified personal trainer experienced in working with men who we will recruit and pay to deliver the session. Each week, we’ll focus on light exercises, stretching, and mobility, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included. To complement the physical sessions, we’ll provide healthy refreshments and create a welcoming environment that encourages social interaction and mutual support.

How will the expenditure increase participation?

This programme aims to break down barriers that often prevent men from engaging in physical activity, such as cost, intimidation, or lack of motivation. By offering free, accessible sessions in a familiar setting, we hope to attract not only our current members but also new faces from the community. The emphasis on camaraderie and mutual encouragement will foster a supportive atmosphere, making participants more likely to continue their fitness journey beyond the initial 4 weeks. We anticipate that this initiative will boost overall participation in our shed’s activities and promote long-term health benefits among attendees.

Costing Breakdown (please give details of costs of expenditure):
Personal Trainer Fees: €240
Hiring a qualified personal trainer to lead 4 x 1-hour sessions (€60 per session)

Exercise Equipment: €100
Purchase of resistance bands, yoga mats, and light dumbbells to be used during sessions and retained for future use

Promotional Materials: €60
Design and printing of posters and flyers to reach potential participants in the Waterford area.

Healthy Refreshments: €100 water, fruit, and light snacks after each session to encourage socialising and recovery.

Total Projected Spend: €500

Volunteers in Sport Awards OPEN for applications!

Published: November 14, 2023

13 November 2023; Olympian David Gillick, right, with Mary O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of Irish Sport and Graham Russell, Head of Sport at Louth Sports Partnership in attendance to launch the Volunteers in Sport Awards at the Sports Campus in Dublin. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile *** NO REPRODUCTION FEE ***

Federation of Irish Sport Launches the National 2023 Volunteers in Sport Awards,
Celebrating Unsung Heroes

Nominations open from 13th November – 18th December 2023
• Supported by the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships
• To nominate volunteers visit www.volunteersinsport.ie
• #dedicatedtothededicated

The Federation of Irish Sport have  announced the launch of the 2023 Volunteers in Sports Awards, a highly anticipated event set to recognise the unsung heroes who breathe life into sports in every corner of the country. Supported by the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships these dedicated volunteers are the backbone of sporting communities, and it’s time to celebrate their unwavering commitment.

Nominations for the awards are now open, and you can submit your entries at the dedicated awards website, www.volunteersinsport.ie. Under the banner of #DedicatedToTheDedicated, these awards are more than just a ceremony; they are a celebration of the remarkable individuals who pour their hearts into sports in every county across Ireland.

The 2023 awards will culminate in a spectacular in-person awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on Thursday 29th February 2024. Nominations opened today Monday, November 13th, and the window for entries will close on Monday December 18th, 2023. The nominations received will be meticulously shortlisted and thoughtfully considered by our Judging Panel. This prestigious event will see 32 county awards presented, and one exceptional individual will be crowned with the coveted Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of sporting activities in clubs and communities nationwide. They generously invest their time, energy, and passion, dedicating themselves to the development of their chosen sport. Over 450,000 dedicated volunteers are needed on a weekly basis to fuel club activities. Their collective efforts translate into an astonishing estimated economic value of €1.5 billion, showcasing the immeasurable impact of their contributions. Without these volunteers, the very existence of sports clubs would hang in the balance.

Attending the launch was former track star, ambassador David Gillick who mentioned,
“Volunteers are the backbone of our sport, I wouldn’t have achieved what I did in sport if it wasn’t for people volunteering. Equally, every sport at all levels needs volunteers to give teams and athletes the opportunities to realise their potential. We all know someone who gets involved week after week, simply for the love of sport and I’d encourage everyone to nominate those superstars in this years’ volunteer awards.”

Speaking at the launch Federation CEO Mary O’Connor commented;
“The Federation of Irish Sport is once again delighted to host these awards with the support of the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships. The awards recognise dedicated club members and celebrate the impact they’re having not just to their sports club but to the wider community. Recognising our volunteers in sport is hugely important and acknowledging them in this way serves as an important reminder of the significant economic and social value of volunteering in Ireland. We want to ensure that volunteers in sport know their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed and inspire more volunteers in sport.”

Highlighting the significance of this awards, Head of Sport, Louth LSP, Louth County Council Graham Russell stated, “The National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships are, once again, proud to support the Federation of Irish Sport in hosting of these awards. The LSP’s work, on a daily basis, with volunteers from clubs and communities in every corner of the country, to support them in developing opportunities for people to engage in sport and physical activity. We are thrilled to be involved with these awards, which highlights the role that volunteers play, not just in organising sport, but in improving the physical and mental health of the country and in bringing communities together.” Russell added that “Every elite player or athlete that has played at the top level, in an All-Ireland Final, World Cup, World Championship or in an Olympic Games will tell you that the opportunities afforded to them in the Clubs and Sports that they have excelled in, would not have existed if it were not for volunteers. No Volunteers, no Sport”

The 2023 Volunteers in Sports Awards are more than just an event; they are a tribute to the unsung heroes who make sports happen in our communities. We encourage everyone to participate in this celebration by nominating the dedicated volunteers who deserve to be recognised for their exceptional contributions.

For more information and to submit your nominations, please visit www.volunteersinsport.ie

Make your Club more Inclusive!

Published: October 5, 2023

Did you know that Active Disability Ireland have developed a resource to help support sports clubs create more inclusive environments?

If your club wants to help create more participation opportunities for people with disabilities download the toolkit today:

Active Disability Ireland also recently conducted a survey of sports clubs so that we could better understand the supports needed to help create inclusive environments within clubs and local communities. Following on from this, we wanted to share some insights with you. You’ll see links below to a full survey report as well as a summary document which we hope you find beneficial.

Full Report
Survey Summary

Workshops for Coaches – BOOK NOW!

Published: August 22, 2023

Coaching Teenage Girls in Sport Workshop
Tuesday 10th October | 6.15 to 9.15pm @ SETU Arena, Carriganore, Waterford.

For Coaches, Volunteers, Committee Members, or Teachers involved in young female participation across all sport types.

THIS 3-HOUR WORKSHOP WILL COVER:

  • Dropout & Engagement by Girls in Sports & Physical Activity
  • Meeting the Psycho-Social Needs of Girls in Sport
  • Key Considerations for Coaching Girls: Body Image & Maturation
  • Preparing for the Challenges of Adolescence

€15pp | Book HERE now!


WSP in partnership with SETU Arena are hosting two informative & practical workshops for sports coaches based in Waterford.
The workshops are designed for sports coaches involved in coaching young athletes aged under 16 and will be delivered by the High Performance Team based in SETU Arena. The High Performance Team have extensive experience working with individual athletes and athletes involved in team sports. The workshops are open to sports coaches and volunteers from all types of sports. The workshops will involve a mix of theory & practice (all coaches will be asked to participate in the practical elements of the workshop).

Introduction to Coaching & Considerations when working with Young Athletes
Tuesday 21st November 6.45 – 8.15pm

This workshop will provide coaches with an introduction to different types of coaching skills, considerations required for this age group, and types of communication skills that can maximise coaching abilities, etc.

Designing and Implementing an Effective Warm-up Protocol for Young Athletes
Tuesday 28th November 6.45 – 8.15pm
This workshop will involve an introduction to the considerations needed when designing and implementing an effective warm-up for young athletes.

 All coaches will be asked to participate in the practical elements of the workshops

Book both workshops for €15 each, or one workshop for €20. Limited Places.
Book HERE now!

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Sinéad Brannigan on 087 459 6179 or email sbrannigan@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

Sports Energy Support Scheme – APPLY NOW!

Published: May 19, 2023

Calling all Community Owned Sports Facilities!!
Have you seen your energy costs rise between the periods
Sept 2019 – May 2020 and Sept 2022 – May 2023?

If your Community Sports Facility does not currently qualify for TBESS or other Government support schemes through DRCD, Local Authorities etc. Then you may be entitled to assistance through Sport Ireland’s ‘Sports Energy Support Scheme’

If your Club is intetrested in applying, please complete
the Expression of Interest Form  

Closing date: Wednesday May 24th @ 12 noon

Please note:
Sports Clubs or facilities affiliated to Sport Ireland recognised National Governing Bodies (NGB) should access support directly through their own NGB.

 

Time to get Nominating for the Volunteer in Sport Awards

Published: January 25, 2023

The Federation of Irish Sport today announced the official support of the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships for the 2022 Volunteers in Sports Awards. The nationwide awards recognise individual volunteers at sports clubs and organisations across the country, who give freely of their time and energy to their local club to help make sport happen.

The 2022 Volunteers in Sport Awards, supported by the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships will be celebrated on the 22nd March 2023 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown. In light of this announcement the closing date will now be extended to Wednesday 8th February. Nominations can be made by completing a short online entry form at https://volunteersinsport.ie/make-a-nomination/

The National Network of Local Sports Partnerships has a huge presence in sport at a grassroots level engaging with local communities to promote physical activity for all ages and abilities, removing barriers and increasing inclusivity. They offer a wide variety of opportunities to access training, education and targeted programmes and initiatives in sport.

Mary O’Connor, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport said, “We are absolutely delighted to have the support of the Local Sports Partnership Network. Volunteerism in sport forms the foundation of sport the length and breadth of the country. The LSPs are in the heart of communities, supporting all sports at grassroots level and encouraging physical activity for all. We believe their involvement in the awards will deepen the appreciation of volunteers locally.”

Graham Russell, Head of Sport Louth Sports Partnership said, “As a national network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships we are thrilled to be able to come together to support the Volunteers in Sport Awards as they celebrate those who volunteer their time and energy for the good of their locality. Each Local Sports Partnerships proactively engages locally with sporting clubs and organizations, as well as partnering with the National Governing Bodies of Sport to support local volunteers and encourage clubs and organisations locally to provide opportunities for everyone in the community to get involved in sport and physical activity, ensuring that sport is inclusive and accessible to all.”

To keep up to date with all the latest announcements visit www.volunteersinsport.ie and follow @iresport on twitter and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/federation-of-irish-sport/ #DedicatedtoheDedicated

So, COME ON WATERFORD!
Nominate that special person in YOUR CLUB TODAY!

WSP Club Development Grant Scheme 2022 – Open for applications!

Published: May 3, 2022


Waterford Sports Partnership aims to support sports club volunteers and develop opportunities for people to participate in organised sport. This small-scale grant aims to support initiatives to increase participation levels in sports clubs.  All new and existing sports clubs affiliated with an NGB (National Governing Body of Sport) are welcome to apply for this grant. Affiliation must be in place at the time of applying. Priority for funding will be given to minority sports, low participation groups and the target groups identified in the Waterford Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2018-2022.

If successful, the funding can be used for sports equipment, NGB coach education courses for volunteers, physical activity programmes to increase club membership and participation e.g. summer camps.

All sports clubs that received previous funding from Waterford Sports Partnership must have fully drawn down funds to be considered for new funding.

Download the GRANT CRITERIA
Download the GRANT APPLICATION FORM
or APPLY FOR THE GRANT ONLINE HERE

Applications can be returned by POST or COMPLETED ONLINE using the link above.
STRICTLY NO EMAIL APPLICATIONS WILL be ACCEPTED.

Postal Address is as follows:
WSP Club Development Grant, Waterford Sports Partnership, Regional Sports Centre, Cork Road, Waterford.

CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS
IS 5PM ON TUESDAY 31st MAY 2022

The decision of the committee is final

For more information please contact Sinéad Brannigan on 087 4596179 or sbrannigan@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

WSP Club Development Webinar Series 2021

Published: October 1, 2021

Over the next few months we will deliver four FREE Webinars for Waterford Sports Clubs. The Series is supported by Dormant Accounts Funding through Sport Ireland.

 

The series will cover the following topics:

  • What grant funding is available locally and nationally for Waterford Clubs?

  • Volunteer recruitment & management for Waterford clubs

  • Effective communication for Waterford clubs

  • Effective fundraising and sponsorship advice for Waterford clubs


WEBINAR 4 is now booking!

Effective Fundraising & Sponsorship Advice for Waterford Clubs

Get a broad understanding of the strategic fundraising process in the context of the wider fundraising landscape. Be more proactive in the development of a strategic fundraising pillar to add to your club’s funding model.

Monday 8th November | 7.30 to 9pm

Topics that will be covered include:

  • What is a strategic fundraising process?
  • How could a fundraising campaign be best structured?
  • What fundraising methods should a club consider?
  • What are realistic and achievable fundraising targets?
  • How should a club position itself to maximise fundraising success? 

Who should attend this Webinar?
– Sports clubs with ambition to grow their club
– Sports club representatives
– National Governing Bodies of Sport who wish to disseminate information to clubs
– Local schools/community representatives who work in partnership with local sports clubs

FREE WEBINAR | BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Book HERE now!
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Peter Jones on 087 101 5130 or pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

 

 

 

 

Waterford Sports Partnership

Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) was established in 2002 by Sport Ireland (formerly the Irish Sports Council) as part of the Local Sports Partnership initiative with the aim of increasing participation in sport and physical activity in County Waterford.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Sport Ireland

Useful Links

Sport Ireland
Sport Ireland plans, leads and co-ordinates the sustainable development of competitive and recreational sport in Ireland.

LSP Contact Finder
Find contact details for other Local Sports Partnerships.

NGB Contact Finder
Find contact details for National Governing Bodies of Sport.

Social Media

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Company Info

Waterford Sports Partnership Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG)
CRO Number: 378713

Registered Office –
Civic Offices
Dungarvan
Co. Waterford
Ireland

Federation of Irish Sport Logo

Active Disability Ireland Logo

Contact Details

County Office:
Civic Offices
Dungarvan
Co. Waterford
Tel: 058 21194

City Office:
Regional Sports Centre
Cork Road
Waterford

Email: info@waterfordsportspartnership.ie
Website By: Déise Design

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