Symposium 6: Learning About Our Coaches : Lessons from Gaelic Games - What Role Can Female Coaches Have in the Development of Gaelic Games?

Research consistently identifies that representation of women in coaching reduces as the level of the pathway increases. This is mirrored by higher levels of drop-off within coach education as qualifications progress. Previous research has provided some evidence of the occupational landscape and experiences of females in coaching but there is a need to examine the structural level and culture of this within the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). This study aimed to explore the experiences of female coaches who have been actively involved in the development and delivery of Gaelic games in Ireland. Two data sources: quantitative collected through a national GAA coaching survey, and qualitative, 8 semi-structured focus groups (n=40). Qualitative data were analysed using a six-step process to establish key themes (Braun & Clarke, 2021). Preliminary findings highlight several issues facing female coaches actively involved in Gaelic games; Perceived Lack of Respect/Value: from their voice not being valued as strongly as a man’s voice when coaching, to not being included in team-specific and broader club coaching activity. Gatekeepers: Having children is a strong access point for women into coaching. Females would like to progress in coaching as their children progress. Having a familial attachment to the club also seemed to support female coaches, a dad or husband involved in the club was an access point to coaching and maybe ensured a more positive experience for female coaches. These findings provide the Association with information on their coaching workforce to inform the development of their cultural perspective and coaching policies.