Empowering Women in Sport: Celebrating International Women’s Day & Women in Sport Week 2025

As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of Women in Sport Week from 3rd to 9th March 2025, it is the perfect time to highlight the remarkable contributions of women in sport across Ireland. This week, which coincides with International Women’s Day on 8th March, focuses on key themes such as visibility, coaching, teenage girl participation, officiating, leadership, and active involvement—all crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive sporting environment.

At Dimply, we are proud to sponsor the Portlaoise Panthers Women’s Super League Team, a group of exceptional athletes who embody the spirit of this celebration. Their dedication and achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration, both locally in the team’s home base in Offaly and nationally when on the road for away games. But support for women in sport goes beyond sponsorship—it requires ongoing effort to promote visibility, investment, and leadership opportunities at all levels.

Alyssa Velles, co-captain of the Panthers, highlights the importance of visibility and representation:

"Being a female player in sport is empowering to me. Showcasing the skills of women in various sports is inspirational to the younger generations and those that will follow. I will remain a strong advocate for increased exposure of women in sports to highlight all that females can achieve in their athletic careers and beyond."

Increasing the visibility of women’s sports is essential. Attending women’s games, engaging with female athletes on social media, and advocating for equal media coverage all contribute to elevating female representation in sport. When young girls see strong, skilled women competing at the highest level, they are more likely to believe in their own potential.

For Megan Dunne, co-captain inspiring the next generation is a key motivator:

"Being a woman in sport is something I don’t take for granted. Getting to inspire the younger generation is something very special, and I hope to continue to do this for all the younger girls in my club."

One of the most impactful ways to support women in sport is through youth engagement and grassroots development. Encouraging young girls to participate, ensuring they have access to proper coaching and facilities, and providing role models in sport can make a lasting difference. Whether it’s parents signing their daughters up for teams, local businesses sponsoring youth leagues, or clubs investing in school outreach programmes, every effort counts.

Jessica Fressle, Post Player  reflects on the power of role models:

"Being a woman in sport is something so impactful. By being my best self, I am able to inspire others to do the same. It is a privilege to see younger girls dream to one day be exactly where I am." 

Aspiring athletes need mentorship and leadership to thrive. Supporting female coaches, referees, and administrators in sport is just as important as supporting players. By investing in training and career opportunities for women in sport leadership, we ensure that the next generation has a strong support system at every level.

Coach Aoife O’Malley is breaking barriers in a male-dominated profession and understands the importance of paving the way for future leaders:

"It’s a huge honour and privilege to be involved with an amazing group of girls at the highest level. As a female coach in a traditionally male-dominated sport, it can bring its own challenges, but I would like to think that we are breaking down the barriers and that young girls in our club witnessing the success of our Super League team will inspire them to continue playing the sport."

Women in coaching and officiating need equal opportunities, funding, and recognition. Encouraging more women to pursue coaching roles, advocating for fair pay, and pushing for leadership diversity in sports governance helps break down systemic barriers.

At Dimply, we see the parallels between sport and business. Our CEO, Jac Dunne, highlights how the same qualities that define success on the court also apply to leadership in any industry:

"We are very proud to partner with and sponsor the Portlaoise Panthers Ladies Super League Team, and we firmly believe celebrating women in sport isn’t just about recognising talent; it’s about championing resilience, collaboration, leadership, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. This team showed determination and resilience in being promoted two seasons ago from the National League to the Super League; their grit and hard work came to fruition. The same qualities that drive success on the court—determination, strategy, and perseverance—are the foundation that shape strong leaders in business. When we support and invest in women in sport, we support a world where talent, ambition, and determination lead the way, regardless of the industry."

This Women in Sport Week and International Womens Day, we encourage everyone to take action—attend women’s games, celebrate female athletes, invest in women’s sports at all levels, support women in coaching and leadership, and push for greater visibility in the media.

By doing so, we not only uplift the current generation of athletes but also inspire future generations to thrive—on and off the field.

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