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Waterford parkruns!

Published: January 23, 2024

parkrun is very simple concept: started back in 2014 in Bushy Park, in Teddington, UK. Participants turn up every Saturday and walk, jog or run 5k, or if you’re a junior then 2k every Sunday. You can also volunteer in numerous different roles too! It doesn’t matter how fast you go. It doesn’t matter what you’re wearing. What matters is taking part.

There are parkrun events each Saturday and Sunday in 20 countries all around the world. All events are organised by a group of wonderful, dedicated, local volunteers. parkrun is all about inclusiveness and wellbeing. They want as many people as possible to feel part of a real local community brought together by our events, as well as our global parkrun family.

The format of parkrun is simple: register once, print your barcode, then turn up and take part wherever you want, whenever you want.

There are two parkruns in Waterford; one in Tramore which is running since 2016 and a NEW parkrun in SETU Arena which has just been launched.

Healthy Ireland Community Walks 2024

Published: January 16, 2024

In December, we advertised our Healthy Ireland Community Walks Grant Scheme which provides funding to help groups and clubs to organise walks in their communities. Ten clubs and groups applied. Some of the groups have started their walks already! The walks will be running across the county for six weeks, in many different locations and are available for anyone wishing to join in. The walks are a great chance to meet people and to get active in your community in 2024!

Here is a listing of all the walks and their start dates.
Follow the group/clubs on Social media to keep up to date with what’s going on!
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Liz McEnaney on  087 739 6050 or email lmcenaney@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

 

WSP Community Walks Grant Scheme OPEN for Applications!

Published: December 12, 2023


Applications are open for the 2024 WSP/Healthy Ireland Community Walks Grant Scheme.

We are pleased to announce the second year of our Community Walking Programme Grant Scheme.

This is open for applications to Sports Clubs, Community Groups and Disability Services.

Clubs and groups are asked to host a six week Community Walking programme that is open to the public – details for the walks and grant criteria can be found in the two links below. The grant funding is a max of €300 and the amount given will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Please submit your application to us using the follow link: APPLY HERE

Please read through the relevant criteria for your club or community group/service before submitting your application.
Club Grant Criteria
Community/Group Grant Criteria

The closing date for Applications is Wednesday 3rd January 2024 at 5pm.

For any queries or if you require further information please contact Liz on 086 783 7385
or email lmcenaney@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

NOW Booking – Women on the Move

Published: December 12, 2023

Women on the Move is a community based physical activity programme suitable for adult women (18+) that would like to take part in some form of moderate exercise.

It is suitable for beginners and women returning to exercise.

Each session will include cardio (walking/jogging) and upper and lower bodyweight exercises (squats, lunges, press ups, shoulder presses, etc.).

Exercises will be adapted to individual ability levels.

First time participants will feel:

  • A little bit sweaty
  • Be aware of their breathing.
  • Able to carry on talking.
  • ‘Talk Test’ Intensity Score => 5 – 6 = ‘Moderate Intensity Activity’

Venue: Indoors
Equipment: None. All exercises are using your own bodyweight only. Equipment may be introduced during the duration of the programme but is optional to use.

NOW BOOKING . . .

Women on the Move | Dungarvan
Starting Wednesday 17th January | 7 to 8pm
@ Causeway Tennis Club | Abbeyside

Women on the Move | Carrickphierish
Starting Wednesday 17th January | 7 to 8pm
@ Carrickphierish Sports Hall

€20 per person for full SIX WEEK PROGRAMME

BOOKING YOUR PLACE HERE

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Natalia Pocelujko on 086 165 4305 or email npocelujko@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

 

 

 

NOW Booking! Men on the Move

Published: December 12, 2023


Men on the Move is a community based physical activity programme suitable for adult men (18+) that would like to take part in some form of moderate exercise.

It is suitable for beginners and men returning to exercise.

Each session will include cardio (walking/jogging) and upper and lower bodyweight exercises (squats, lunges, press ups, shoulder presses, etc.).

Exercises will be adapted to individual ability levels.

First time participants will feel:

  • A little bit sweaty
  • Be aware of their breathing.
  • Able to carry on talking.
  • ‘Talk Test’ Intensity Score => 5 – 6 = ‘Moderate Intensity Activity’

 

Venue: Indoors
Equipment: None. All exercises are using your own bodyweight only. Equipment may be introduced during the duration of the programme but is optional to use.

NOW BOOKING . . .

Men on the Move @ Kingfisher Club | Tramore Road | Waterford
Starting Monday 15th January | 6.15 to 7pm
€20 per person for full six week programme

Men on the Move @ The Causeway Tennis Club, Abbeyside, Dungarvan
Starting Wednesday 17th January | 6.15 to 7pm
€20 per person for full six week programme

BOOK HERE NOW!

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Natalia Pocelujko on 086 165 4305 or email npocelujko@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

 


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

Job Opportunity | Office Administrator

Published: October 16, 2023

We wish to recruit an Office Administrator on a fulltime, fixed term, one year contract for our Dungarvan office.

Waterford Sports Partnership CLG
Office Administrator
Full-time Fixed Term Contract – 12 months

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The primary purpose of the post is to provide high quality administration support to the Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) organisation and Sports Co-ordinator.

The office administrator will be required to demonstrate capacity to work effectively as part of an experienced, highly effective and innovative team and in doing so link in with all staff. The officer will support the delivery of services and work programme of WSP.

The office administrator will have an understanding and commitment to the principles and values of WSP and work as a responsible member of the overall team, participate in team meetings and ensure confidentiality and professional integrity at all times.

POST DETAILS:
Title: Office Administrator
Length of contract:  This role is offered on a fixed term contract for 12 months, subject to satisfactory completion of a 6-month probationary period.
Hours: The Office Administrator will work 35 hours per week. Flexibility of hours will be required for occasional evening and/or weekend work to accommodate the service needs, for which time off in-lieu can be taken.
Location: The post will be based at the Civic Offices, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford with a remit for the City and County of Waterford.
Reporting to: Sports Co-ordinator
Salary: Salary is aligned with the Grade 4 public sector salary scale (from €32,301)
Annual Leave: 28 days annual leave
Travel Expenses: Travelling expenses will be reimbursed where appropriate.
Closing date: Tuesday 31st October 2023.
Interviews: Those selected will be invited to attend for interview on Monday 13th November 2023.
Application: Please apply by uploading a COVER LETTER and CV HERE by Tuesday 31st October 2023.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
General Office Administration

  • Manage general office administration duties.  Support and develop efficient and effective systems in the day-to-day operation of the WSP offices.
  • General administration and support to the Sports Co-ordinator.
  • Support and contribute to the preparation, completion, review and reporting of WSP’s annual operational plans for the delivery of the WSP Strategy.
  • Support the WSP team in the delivery of a professional service and with the administration of programmes/events.
  • Develop, maintain and update WSP’s filing and data management systems to high standards and in line with Data Protection requirements.
  • Assist with information management and provide relevant information to individuals and groups while ensuring that good standards are maintained in all communications with the public.
  • Be flexible in approach to work and undertake any other duties that may be required within the remit of WSP. This will involve occasional evening/weekend work from time to time.

Specific areas of Responsibility

  • Manage, maintain and develop WSP’s CRM system (Salesforce) and ensure the organisation is compliant with Data Protection requirements.
  • Organise and attend WSP Board meetings and record minutes of meetings.
  • Support the Sports Co-ordinator, WSP Board and relevant committees with administration relating to meetings, the preparation of meeting materials and documents and in their circulation.
  • Manage WSP’s compliance with Company Secretarial and other statutory obligations.
  • Manage and develop the administration of WSP’s Tutor and Partner databases in line with WSP’s Safe Recruitment and Garda Vetting policies and procedures.
  • Manage and update the online booking system for WSP activities (currently Eventbrite).
  • Support the administration of platforms and systems used by WSP including Salesforce, Eventbrite, Xero, Online banking, Business Safe online, Fixed Assets Register etc.
  • Contribute to and assist relevant WSP staff in the administrative element of finance, governance and communication.

Short listing of candidates may apply based on the information supplied. Canvassing will disqualify.

Those selected will be invited to attend for interview on Monday 13th November 2023.

We shall require the person to whom the appointment is offered to take up such appointment as soon as possible.

If you are interested in applying for the position, please apply HERE
with a
COVER LETTER and CV by Tuesday 31st October 2023.

Waterford Sports Partnership is an Equal Opportunities Employer

 

SportsAbility Day a Great Success!

Published: October 5, 2023


Waterford Sports Partnership and Waterford SportsAbility Forum in association with SETU Arena ran Waterford’s SportsAbility Day on Sunday 1st of October from 11am to 3pm in SETU Arena, this was a great opportunity for people to find out what sports and activities are on offer across the city and county for people with a disability.

SportsAbility Day 2023 was a fantastic and very memorable day. The event started with local clubs and National Governing Bodies hosting information stands providing information support and advice on what is happening in Waterford at present. From 12-3pm, a wide range of taster sessions took place for people to try out. This included: Table Tennis, Football for All, Athletics, Muay Thai, Pitch & Putt, Rugby, Hockey, Badminton, Powerchair football, Wheelchair basketball, Boccia, GAA for all, Footgolf, Archery, access to the High-Performance gym and Sprinting Track and access to all different types of bikes such as two wheelers, trikes, handcycles, trishaw and balance bikes.

The event was hosted by the very talented Teresanne O’Reilly. Paralympians Hayley Fitzsimons, Niall Mc Veigh and Damien Vereker joined us on the day. Hayley and Niall gave a very informative interview about their sporting careers while Damien helped and took part in the cycling activities.

Waterford’s Sports Ability Forum was established in 2016, with representatives from various Disability Organisations, Voluntary and Statutory Organisations and National Governing Bodies. The aim of the forum is for organisations to meet quarterly and share information on what physical activity opportunities are available for people with a disability in Waterford. The forum’s secondary aim is to increase the awareness of the physical activity opportunities for people with a disability in Waterford. The SportsAbility Day is the perfect platform for this!

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making SportsAbility such an incredible day. A huge thank you to all the NBG’s and Clubs who hosted very fun and enjoyable taster sessions. These include: Table Tennis Ireland, Football For All clubs – Cappoquinn and Park Rangers, Irish Wheelchair Association Sport for hosting Wheelchair Basketball and Athletics, John Walsh from Muay Thai Waterford, David Hayes from Dungarvan Golf Club, Brendan Woods from Hockey Ireland, Brendan Cornish and the Wexford FC staff for Powerchair Football, Brickey Rangers and Munster GAA for GAA For All, Ben Swindlehurst from Munster Rugby, WSP staff member Sinead Brannigan for Boccia, Declan Kelly and Conor Colman for looking after the bike area and SETU Arena for the use of their High Performance Gym, Sprinting Track and Archery and Footgolf.

Thanks to everyone who hosted very informative information stands. These include Alex Malone from Paralympics Ireland, Adam Sommers from Active Disability Ireland, Little Vikings Special Olympics Young Athlete Club, Waterford FC, Park Rangers AFC, Irish Wheelchair Association and Motivate Fitness.  Thank you so much to Teresanne O’Reilly for her professionalism in leading MC duties and to special guests, Paralympian Hayley Fitsimmons, Niall Mc Veigh and Damien Vereker. We appreciate SETU Arenas wonderful facility and the assistance of their staff in setting up the sports hall and to the volunteers and staff of WSP who kindly gave up their time to help.

For more information on opportunities for people with a disability please contact Jordan Kelly by email at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie or call 086 167 5642

 

 

Minister Thomas Byrne launches Sport Ireland Statement of Strategy (2023-2027)

Published: October 2, 2023

29/8/2023 |Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Sport Ireland Aims to Build a Thriving Sports Nation with a Strategy Focused on Participation and Performance.
Sport Ireland, the statutory authority responsible for the development of sport in Ireland, is proud to announce the launch of its ambitious and goal-oriented strategy for the period of 2023-2027. This strategy reflects Sport Ireland’s commitment to fostering high levels of participation, engagement, achievement, and performance in all aspects of sport throughout the country.

The updated vision of Sport Ireland is centred around creating ‘an active Ireland where everyone can experience the lifelong benefits of sport and physical activity’. As the leading advocate for sports development in Ireland, Sport Ireland will collaborate with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, and partner organizations including National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) as well as other funded bodies to deliver its strategy.

Sport Ireland’s strategy aims to achieve several key objectives:

  • Increase levels of participation in sport, with a particular focus on diversity and inclusion. Innovative programs and initiatives will be implemented to engage and encourage underrepresented groups in sports.
  • Champion high-performance sport, supporting Irish teams, athletes, and support staff to excel on the international stage.
  • Empower individuals to maintain commitment to their sports and engage in long-term participation.
  • Enhance the number and quality of coaches, officials, administrators, and volunteers involved in running and supporting sports.
  • Deliver crucial support services such as safeguarding and anti-doping to ensure ethical, safe, and fair play in sports.
  • Further develop and improve the Sport Ireland Campus and sporting infrastructure across Ireland.

The strategy was officially launched by Minister for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne TD, and is aligned with the targets outlined in the Government’s National Sports Policy. This comprehensive strategy reflects Sport Ireland’s dedication to its mission and values while strengthening its relationships with various partners, including the Department of NGBs, LSPs, other funded bodies, and the wider sport sector.

Minister for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne TD commented on launching the strategy “I am very pleased to officially launch Sport Ireland’s Statement of Strategy 2023-2027. Sport has multiple benefits, from the pride we feel when witnessing our high-performance athletes on the world stage, to the positive impact on our society’s physical health and mental wellbeing. As a Government, we are determined to boost participation levels in sport and I welcome the strategy’s strong focus on active participation and social participation. The delivery of this wide-ranging strategy relies on strong partnership with National Governing Bodies and Local Sports Partnerships as well as other funded bodies and good governance will be a key factor. I look forward to working with Sport Ireland and my Department on this strategy which seeks to implement the goals of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027.”

John Foley, Chairperson of Sport Ireland, highlighted the significance of the new five-year strategy, stating, “The development of our new five-year strategy is an opportunity to reflect upon and review Sport Ireland’s vision, mission, and values. It builds upon the progress made during our previous strategic cycle. It acknowledges and reinforces the alignment of Sport Ireland’s work with the National Sports Policy, the importance of our connection with the Irish Government, and our strong relationships with partners, in particular NGBs, LSPs, other funded bodies, and the wider sport sector, including clubs, communities, coaches, officials, administrators, and volunteers.”

Dr. Una May, CEO of Sport Ireland, expressed the organization’s commitment to delivering the strategy. “This strategy sets out a five-year vision of how Sport Ireland will lead the sport sector to further develop sport and physical activity in Ireland. The strategy was developed following a wide ranging consultation with key stakeholders and the general public. We have been encouraged by the number of contributions received and impressed by the quality of inputs throughout the consultation process. The key measure of success will be our ability to deliver on the participation and high-performance National Sports Policy targets, which we will pursue relentlessly over this next cycle,”

The Statement of Strategy 2023 – 2027 is available to read here. https://www.sportireland.ie/about-us/sport-ireland-strategy

Positive Ageing Week 2023

Published: October 1, 2023

We’re running a series of events for Positive Ageing Week (PAW) which takes place from  Sunday 1st to Saturday 7th October 2023  PAW is an Age Action initiative to promote the agency of older people and to celebrate the contribution they make to our families, workplaces, communities, and society as a whole.

Limited Places | BOOK HERE

EVENTS PLANNED ARE AS FOLLOWS . . .

FOR FUTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Liz McEnaney on  087 739 6050 or email lmcenaney@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.

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

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