Paralympics Ireland is proud to support Women in Sport Week 2026, taking place from March 2 to March 8, as part of a nationwide celebration of the women and girls who shape sport at every level across Ireland.
Led by Sport Ireland and supported by National Governing Bodies and sporting organisations nationwide, Women in Sport Week is an important opportunity to recognise the athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and leaders who contribute to sport every day. The week also incorporates International Women’s Day on March 8, a global celebration of the achievements and impact of women in society and sport.
The theme for 2026, “Same Energy”, challenges all of us to reflect on how women’s sport is valued, supported, and promoted. It calls for women’s sport to receive the same visibility, recognition, and cultural importance as men’s sport, and encourages organisations, communities, and fans to show up with the same enthusiasm and support.
Women have played a central role in Ireland’s Paralympic story since the very beginning. At the first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960, Joan Horan made history as Ireland’s first Paralympic medallist, winning gold in both swimming and archery. Since then, generations of female Paralympians have continued to represent Ireland with distinction on the world stage, winning medals, breaking records, and inspiring future athletes.
Today, women across the Paralympic movement in Ireland continue to make a significant impact not only as athletes, but also as coaches, classifiers, support staff, administrators, and advocates. Their contributions are essential to the growth, development, and success of Para sport across the country.
Throughout Women in Sport Week, the campaign will highlight key themes across the sector, including Coaching, Leadership, Visibility, Officiating, Participation, and Community, culminating in International Women’s Day on March 8.
- Monday – Coaching
- Tuesday – Leadership
- Wednesday – Visibility
- Thursday – Officiating
- Friday – Participation
- Saturday – Community
- Sunday – International Women’s Day
These themes reflect the breadth of roles women play in sport, from grassroots participation to high performance, and highlight the importance of creating inclusive environments where women and girls with disabilities can thrive.
Read Sport Ireland’s Policy on Women in Sport here.
