Cricket Ireland open applications for ‘On The Front Foot’ female leadership development programme

Cricket Ireland have announced that applications for their “On the Front Foot” leadership development programme are now open.

Established in 2020, the initiative is designed to empower and engage females in the sport as leaders through a programme of activity which aims to enhance innovation, creativity and leadership capabilities. 

Supported by the Sport Ireland Women in Sport fund, the programme is now in its fourth year and has already seen over 30 women advance their leadership roles in cricket and go on to impact the sport at various levels, from local clubs, to the international game and national governance.

The programme has advanced women in cricket to leading roles across the sport as coaches, administrators, referees, activators and at governance and Board level. 

The programme is free, with applications are open to female cricket club members over the age of 18 involved in any aspect of the sport. This includes players, coaches, volunteers, administrators, activators and more.

Elaine Nolan, Director of Growth and Strategy at Cricket Ireland, highlighted the value of the programme and why it’s important for females in cricket to get involved.

She said: ‘Since we started, we’ve seen women of all experience levels join the programme. It’s not just for players; it’s for anyone who cares about cricket and wants to progressively shape and be involved in its future. We know many females are working hard to promote and support the sport at club and national level. This programme is designed to empower them further, accelerating their journey of involvement within cricket. 

‘What’s very powerful about the programme is the peer to peer connections that are made as well as the mentoring. It gives participants space to discuss experiences, challenges and learning in a safe and supportive environment.

‘It builds confidence, equips them with strategies to have an impact and also provides a supportive network they can lean on and learn from. We are looking forward to this year’s programme and hope to see women from all across Ireland getting involved.’

Interested female cricket club members over the age of 18 can find out more and apply – by Friday, August 23 – here.