Rowing Ireland is inviting affiliated clubs to express an interest in hosting a Women on the Water programme during autumn 2026.
Women on the Water is a welcoming, beginner-friendly programme designed to introduce adult women to rowing in a supportive club environment. It can also provide a route back into the sport for women who have rowed previously but would benefit from a structured return.
The programme typically runs over a six-week period, helping participants to develop their confidence, learn the fundamentals of rowing and experience the social and wellbeing benefits of being part of a rowing community.
Why host Women on the Water?
Hosting the programme can help your club to:
- Attract new adult members and reach women in your local community.
- Create a clear and welcoming entry point into recreational rowing.
- Make greater use of club facilities and suitable equipment.
- Develop the experience of club coaches and volunteers.
- Increase the visibility of your club locally.
- Strengthen relationships with Local Sports Partnerships and other community organisations.
- Test a programme that could become a regular part of your club’s recreational offering.
- Support lifelong participation by offering an alternative to traditional competitive pathways.
- Generate revenue
Women on the Water can be particularly valuable for clubs seeking to grow their adult recreational membership and develop a more diverse and sustainable participation base.
What would hosting involve?
Clubs expressing an interest should consider whether they can provide:
- A safe and welcoming environment for adult beginners.
- Access to suitable boats, equipment and facilities.
- Appropriately qualified coaches or experienced leaders.
- A club contact who can coordinate locally with Rowing Ireland.
Support from Rowing Ireland
Rowing Ireland will work with selected clubs to support programme planning and promotion. Guidance includes programme structure, participant communications, registration, promotional materials, administration support and advice on creating a positive beginner experience.
The number of programmes supported will depend on club readiness, geographical spread and available capacity.
Who can apply?
Expressions of interest are welcomed from Rowing Ireland affiliated clubs that are interested in increasing adult women’s participation and can provide an appropriate, safe environment for beginner or returning rowers.
Previous experience of hosting Women on the Water is not essential.
Express your interest
Clubs interested in hosting an autumn programme are invited to complete the Expression of Interest form below.
Submitting an expression of interest does not automatically confirm a place. Rowing Ireland will contact clubs following the closing date to discuss their proposal, capacity and potential programme dates.
For further information, please contact Ceara at womeninsport@rowingireland.ie
