Providing physical activity opportunities for some 8,000 people through 76 locally delivered sports programmes, an additional 7,000 females through 12 Women in Sport initiatives, 400 people with a disability participating locally, supplying information to 520 clubs / organisations and some 11,000 people contacting the Partnership for general and sports specific information were just some of the highlights of the 2012 annual report presented to board of the Mayo Sports Partnership recently. The boards function is to oversee the workings of the Sports Partnership and comprises representatives from local agencies, community and sporting organisations within the county.
Again as in previous years, the Partnership has made significant advances by increasing the number of locally delivered programmes and training opportunities for leaders / volunteers. Target groups focused on during 2012 included children, men aged 30 plus, people with a disability, ethnic minorities, unemployed and women. The Partnership is also continuing to deliver projects to increase the participation and involvement of harder to reach groups such as those living in disadvantaged communities. The establishment of the Castlebar Sports Forum, following the footsteps of the successful Ballina based Moy Sports Forum, seeks to engage local stakeholders and agencies in engaging local youth in meaningful organised physical activity.
A particular highlight from the report has been the tremendous success of the Men on the Move (Men aged 30 plus ) Initiative which was piloted in Ballina, Claremorris and Westport. By the end of 2012 three more areas has joined the project with over 300 men improving both their physical and mental health. The enthusiasm and enjoyment evident from leaders, participants and volunteers demonstrated the value and importance of this type of intervention for local communities. Cllr Henry Kenny-Chairman of Mayo Sports Partnership thanked key stakeholders the Irish Sports Council and Mayo County Council along with the many other partners who contribute to the success of the umbrella sports body. “ Much credit must go to the Sports Partnership staff for continually delivering high quality participation programmes and working with local agencies and all sections of society.” Cllr Kenny added.
The Sports Partnership can be contacted at 094-9047025 or e-mail [email protected] . You can also log on to its website and download the full report at www.mayosports.ie/news
