Associate Club Programme
The Associate Club Programme is designed to create a network of inclusive sports clubs around the country that are open to including individuals with vision impairments throughout the mainstream and adapted activities within their clubs.
The decision to establish the Associate Club Programme arose from Vision Sports Ireland’s commitment to creating an inclusive sports sector and will help direct people with vision impairments towards inclusive clubs in a sport of physical activity of their choice.
Vision Sports Ireland invites all sports clubs in Ireland to join the Associate Club Programme and encourages clubs to take proactive steps towards inclusivity and accessibility within their organisations.
Associate Club Programme Details:
Club Benefits:
- Clubs will be listed as Vision Sports Ireland Associated clubs.
- Clubs will receive a Vision Sports Ireland Associate Club accredited certificate.
- Clubs will receive artwork for their website and social media platforms.
- Club activities and participant recruitment will be supported by Vision Sports Ireland.
- Clubs will benefit from programme start-up support for specific vision impaired initiatives.
- Vision Sports Ireland Associate Clubs will be prioritised for funding opportunities offered by Vision Sports Ireland in the future
Eligibility Criteria:
- A minimum of four coaches/volunteers/committee members must have completed Vision Sports Awareness Training, including at least one committee member.
- The club must align with one of the following:
- Already have a vision impaired programme.
- Already have participating members with a vision impairment.
- Be open to establishing a vision impaired-specific programme.
- Welcoming to vision impaired athletes/players to participate in the club’s mainstream activities.
- In addition to:
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- Use accessible advertising posters (Support will be provided)
- Clubs must be affiliated with the National Governing Body of their sport or similar.
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Please note: Having your club as an associate club of Vision Sports Ireland does not provide insurance cover; such cover remains the responsibility of the club and its affiliated National Governing Body.
2026 Associate Club Funding
Vision Sports Ireland’s Associate Club Funding provides financial assistance to clubs that are part of our Associate Club Programme. This funding is intended to help clubs with:
– Purchasing specialised sports equipment
– Organising events and competitions
– Providing education and training to coaches and volunteers
– Enhancing facilities to be more accessible
Clubs will be eligible to receive funding ranging from €250 to €1,000, with the amount awarded determined based on the information and needs outlined in the application. In exceptional circumstances, funding of up to €2,000 may be considered for significant or exceptional events.
Funding application forms will be sent to all registered associate clubs. Applications will close on September 20th.