Clare Sports Partnership, Clare Youth Service and Clare Comhairle na nÓg Launch Period Product Initiative for Female Sports Teams During Women in Sport Week.
In celebration of Women in Sport Week, Clare Sports Partnership and Clare Youth Service are proud to announce the launch of a new countywide initiative designed to support female athletes by providing access to period products through their sports clubs. The idea for the initiative originated from young people involved in Clare Comhairle na nÓg, who while working on the general issue of period poverty identified a lack of access to products during training and matches as a barrier to participation in sport. Working alongside Clare Youth Service and Clare Sports Partnership, the young people helped shape a practical, dignified solution to address the issue. As part of the initiative, specially prepared period product packs will be distributed to female sports teams across the county. The products will be in boot bags which will form part of the team’s standard training and match day kit ensuring that players can access products if needed. This ensures that no player has to miss training, a match, or feel embarrassed due to a lack of access to essential items. John Sweeney, CEO of Clare Sports Partnership, welcomed the initiative:
“We are delighted to launch this important project during Women in Sport Week. Participation in sport should never be impacted by something as natural and normal as periods. By making these packs available as part of the standard training kit, we are sending a clear message that female athletes are supported, valued and understood within their clubs. This initiative is about inclusion, dignity and ensuring that girls can continue to participate confidently in sport.”
Niamh McManus, a keen sportswoman and a member of Clare Comhairle na nÓg, explained that:
“This initiative was facilitated by Clare Youth Service and driven by young people who spoke openly about the challenges girls can face in sport. Through Comhairle na nÓg, we identified a real and practical issue and worked to find a solution that respects privacy and promotes confidence. It’s a powerful example of what can happen when decision makers work with young people, listen to us and act on our ideas.”
The partners hope the initiative will not only provide practical support but also help to normalise conversations around menstruation in sport, breaking down stigma and creating more inclusive sporting environments across County Clare. The period product packs will be rolled out to clubs throughout the county over the coming weeks, with further awareness supports available for players, coaches and clubs who wish to engage in education around the topic.
This collaborative project reflects a shared commitment between Clare Sports Partnership, Clare Youth Service, and the young people of Comhairle na nÓg Clare to remove barriers, promote equality, and ensure that every girl in Clare has the opportunity to participate fully in sport.