As part of Women in Sport Week 2026, Rowing Ireland’s Women in Sport Lead, Ceara O’Connor, sat down with Rowing Ireland President Jane Williams for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, encouragement, and the importance of bringing the same energy to women and girls across the sport.

Women in Sport Week, led by Sport Ireland and aligned with International Women’s Day, celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in sport while encouraging continued progress toward equality and opportunity at every level. This year’s theme, “Same Energy,” calls on sporting communities to ensure that women’s sport receives the same support, visibility, and commitment as men’s sport.

During the conversation, Jane reflected on what the theme means to her personally in her role as President of Rowing Ireland, highlighting the importance of leadership that actively supports participation, development, and opportunity for women and girls across clubs, coaching, officiating, and governance.

The discussion also explored the progress that has been made in supporting and recognising women in rowing, while acknowledging that continued focus and collective effort are needed to build on that progress. Jane spoke about the role of encouragement and mentorship in leadership journeys, sharing reflections on the individuals who supported and believed in her along the way.

A key message from the interview centred on creating environments where women feel confident stepping forward, contributing their perspectives, and bringing their unique energy to leadership roles within the sport. Ensuring that clubs, organisations, and teammates actively support these pathways is essential to strengthening the future of rowing.

Rowing Ireland remains committed to developing opportunities that encourage participation, leadership, and visibility for women across all areas of the sport. Conversations such as this help to highlight the importance of continued collaboration across the rowing community to ensure that women and girls feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to contribute at every level.

Watch the full interview with Jane Williams and Ceara O’Connor below and join us in celebrating Women in Sport Week 2026.