There's a curious anomaly in the Irish sporting landscape. We, as a nation, pride ourselves on our passion for sport. From the roar of the Hill at Croke Park to the electric atmosphere of Thomond Park, our collective heart beats to the rhythm of the game. Yet, when it comes to women's sport, well, the stands often don't echo this.
Lidl and the LGFA's latest research throws a stark spotlight on this reality. A staggering 59% of Irish people have never attended a live women's sporting event. Now, that's not to say there's no interest – 42% express a desire to witness these athletes in action, and three-quarters find it a shame more people don't. So, what's the disconnect?
The answer lies in a web of factors, some readily apparent, others woven into the very fabric of our sporting culture. The lack of media coverage is a glaring omission, with a whopping 83% believing men's sport receives far greater attention. This translates into a perception of lower quality, with nearly half believing men's sport is simply "better to watch."
But here's the rub: these perceptions often evaporate upon witnessing the action firsthand. Parents of participants, a demographic more likely to attend women's events, can attest to the skill, talent and unwavering passion on display. The upcoming Lidl National League season, bursting with fixtures across the country, offers the perfect opportunity to shatter these misconceptions.
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This isn't just about attending a game; it's about rewriting the narrative. It's about celebrating the achievements of our female sporting heroes, many of whom remain unheralded beyond their respective disciplines. It's about inspiring the next generation of girls to chase their athletic dreams, knowing they have a legion of supporters cheering them on from the stands.
So, this International Women's Day, #GetBehindTheFight.
The entire Her Sport team are joining Lidl and committing to attending the LGFA All-Ireland final and semi-finals and will bring TWENTY people from our community with us.
We are nominating YOU to #GetBehindTheFight by:
- Pleding to attend a women's sporting event this year.
- Nominate two people to go to a women's event and #GetBehindTheFight
- Join us on Instagram stories (Add Yours) and spread the word - let your community know your commitment to #GetBehindTheFight!
When it comes to passion, dedication, and sheer sporting excellence, the women's game deserves a standing ovation, not an empty seat.
