The Sport Ireland Institute was a hive of activity on Saturday 21 February, as the Para Athletics Academy delivered a comprehensive day of athlete development, education, and classification, bringing together athletes, coaches, and practitioners from across the country.
The Academy featured four key strands designed to support the continued growth of Para athletics in Ireland. Athlete testing, led by Annmarie Carroll, provided valuable performance insights to help inform training and track progression, while athletes also participated in a dedicated nutrition workshop delivered by Professor Kate Pumpa, equipping them with practical strategies to support their performance and recovery.
Coach development formed a central part of the day, with an engaging practical sprint session led by internationally renowned coach Joe McDonnell of GB Para Athletics. Coaches in attendance had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, deepen their understanding of coaching Para athletes, and further strengthen the support network available across the pathway.
The Academy also provided an important national classification opportunity, ensuring athletes could access classification and progress within the sport in a structured and supportive environment.
The energy and enthusiasm throughout the day reflected the continued momentum within Para athletics in Ireland, with athletes and coaches demonstrating a shared commitment to development and high performance.
James Nolan, Head of Paralympic Athletics, welcomed the strong engagement across all strands of the Academy.
“It was especially encouraging to see so many coaches in attendance, engaging with new knowledge and insights to bring back to their clubs. This continued investment in education and collaboration will play a key role in strengthening support for Para athletes across Ireland, and the future of Para Athletics looks incredibly bright,” he said.
The Para Athletics Academy continues to play a vital role in strengthening Ireland’s Para athletics pathway, providing athletes and coaches with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to support their long term development and future success on the international stage.
