Craigbane selected to lead Derry’s charge in National ‘Spreag Í’ Initiative

The Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) has confirmed the list of 24 clubs set to participate in the inaugural Spreag Í programme.

Among the clubs flying the flag for Ulster is Craigbane, officially representing County Derry in this national rollout.

The new initiative aims to enhance enjoyment of Ladies Gaelic Football, as well as increasing self-efficacy, teamwork, understanding of the role of sport in a healthy lifestyle and fostering continued participation.

The programme will specifically target club players in the Under 14 and Under 16 age groups, and will be delivered in clubs across Ireland from February 2026-June 2026.

Each selected club will receive two visits from a Spreag Í Facilitator (a current or former LGFA Intercounty player), with the programme focusing on four main themes: Being my Best Self (Goal setting & Self-Confidence); Being a Good Teammate (Teamwork and Leadership Skills); Developing a Healthy Lifestyle (Building Positive Habits); and Grá for the Game (Developing a Lifelong Love of Sport and Continued Participation).

Facilitators for the Spreag Í Programme include: Angela Walsh (Cork); Anna Moore (Laois); Charlene Tyrell (Leitrim); Dearbhla Gower (Galway); Eva Hicks (Down/Tyrone); Fiona Claffey (Westmeath); Hannah Reape (Mayo); Jacqui Mulligan (Sligo); Jenny Higgins (Roscommon); Joanne Barrett (Tyrone); Niamh McElduff (Tyrone); and Una Pearson (Louth).

Visits will involve a mix of practical on-pitch coaching and workshop style activities. In between visits, clubs and their participants will engage with the new LGFA Teenage Kicks programme which aims to allow teenagers to play the sport, their way, encouraging social interaction, empowerment and independence alongside enjoyment of our game.

LGFA President Trina Murray said the introduction of the new Spreag Í programme marks an exciting step forward for the Association and its clubs. 

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She said: “This initiative is about putting enjoyment at the heart of the player experience while supporting the holistic development of our young athletes. 

“With 24 clubs taking part, Spreag Í will provide Under 14 and Under 16 players with a positive, inclusive environment where they can build confidence, strengthen teamwork skills and develop a deeper understanding of the role sport plays in a healthy lifestyle. 

“We want our players to feel empowered, capable and supported, both on and off the pitch. By focusing on self-efficacy and enjoyment, this programme aims to foster a lifelong connection with Ladies Gaelic Football and encourage continued participation within our clubs. 

“We are looking forward to huge engagement with the clubs involved and to seeing the lasting impact Spreag Í will have across our Association.”

The list of 24 clubs features representatives from 23 counties and all four provinces.