Following the success of the initial collaborate projects between stakeholders & Laois Sports Partnership, we decided to apply for a VIP Hub for Laois through Sport Ireland Dormant Accounts. This was collaborated after consultations for the Laois Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2022-2026, a needs was identified for initiatives and growth of exiting projects. The aim of this hub is to increase sport and physical activity opportunities for people with physical disabilities and visual impairments in Co. Laois by creating the first Vision Impaired Community Physical Activity Hub in Ireland. This hub will promote inclusion and training, collaboration with local and national organisations to expand accessible sports opportunities. This initiative is aimed at supporting people with a visual impairment and people with physical disabilities to participate in sport in Co. Laois. Laois Sports Partnerships key partners will include Vision Sports Ireland, Laois Offaly Education Training Board, Portlaoise College, Athletics Ireland, Laois Athletics, IWA Laois, IWA Sport, Portlaoise AFC, Laois Leisure Portlaoise, The Heath Golf Club, Laois Cycling & Touring Club along with local clubs and other stakeholders. In 2023, Laois Sports Partnership engaged 3,164 individuals in 94 programmes, emphasising support for people with disabilities with most not meeting National Physical Activity Guidelines. An overwhelming need has been identified for people with visual impairments and physical disabilities to create opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity. In previous years, people with vision impairments have enjoyed activities such as Goalball, Spinning (Cycling)Tandem Cycling & Athletics With support from our partner organisations in the last five years, we have been able to include Wrestling, Kayaking, Canoeing, Guide Running, Couch 2 5k Running, Water Sports Summer Camp, Athletics, Golf, Couch to 50k, Tandem Cycling and Soccer in our programme output. Since the SIDO programme started in Laois in 2005, five Paralympians have passed through our doors.
Caroline Myers CEO Laois Sports Partnership said “this hub is an acknowledgement of the dedication, passion and hard work from our Sports Inclusion Disability Officer over the past number of years working in collaboration and partnership creating opportunities for people with visual impairments and physical disability to participate in sport and physical activity. It will be the first of its kind in Ireland and we are excited for the journey ahead and making Laois a role model for inclusion across the network of local sports partnerships”. “I have completed many 5k walks over the years but nothing like the virtual 5K during Covid. To say I felt pride is an understatement. For the first time in over a year I could feel that sense of community in the air. We walked with our heads held high, a smile on our face and waved to so many in their blue T-shirt’s. With the sun on our backs, we started out supporting Laois Guide Dogs and Portlaoise Athletics Club but by the end it meant so much more Thank You… Programme Participant “I would like to thank Laois Sports Partnership & Vision Sport Ireland for all your help and support with my son Cormac Kennedy. Cormac is 11 years old & has NF1 with Optica glioma & hydrocephalus. He has no sight in right eye & has field vision issues. He completed 89 weeks chemotherapy & has a VP shunt. He is on hormonal treatment for early puberty & has gained a lot of weight. Cormac’s needs are complex and does attend mainstream school but sport for him is difficult in the mainstream arena. Since meeting with the sports vision Ireland in Portlaoise it has been life changing. Cormac has met boys and girls that have vision issues who are able to be involved in sports with support. He loves the swimming & athletics. He was involved the athletics in Portlaoise this summer & was so happy & proud of his achievements. He has made friends with boys & girls that understand him & his issues. He is a driven, happy boy but really feels the struggles of being different. As a parent we have met people that understand the struggles we have as parents which is huge for our mental health. It has been amazing to join the family & support network in Portlaoise.”
14-16 August 2026
Laois Sports Partnership is delighted to announce the launch of the Laois Inclusion Games, an exciting three-day celebration of inclusive sport taking place from 14th to 16th August, as part of the organisation’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
For 25 years, Laois Sports Partnership has worked to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in sport and physical activity throughout County Laois. Through its Sports Inclusion Disability Programme and ongoing collaboration with local clubs, schools and national governing bodies, the Partnership has become a leader in promoting inclusive sport and physical activity.
Recognising the need for greater participation and progression pathways into disability and para sport, Laois Sports Partnership established the VIP Hub, Ireland’s first dedicated community sports hub for athletes with a visual impairment or physical disability.
Over the past five years, the VIP Hub has created opportunities for athletes to participate, develop and progress in sport, helping individuals access mainstream clubs, national development programmes and para sport pathways. The hub has also played a key role in creating inclusive sporting environments where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Earlier this year, the VIP Hub was honoured to receive the People First Credit Union Community Champions Award. Funding from the award is helping to support the delivery of the inaugural Laois Inclusion Games, bringing together athletes, families, clubs, coaches and volunteers for a weekend dedicated to participation, inclusion and community spirit.
Working alongside local, regional and national sporting organisations, the Laois Inclusion Games will feature a wide range of sports and activities, including:
Many activities throughout the weekend are open to people with a visual impairment or physical disability who are interested in trying a new sport, returning to physical activity or learning more about local sporting opportunities.
Participants can now register for:
Caroline Myers, CEO, Laois Sports Partnership, said:
“The VIP Hub is a fantastic example of inclusion in action, creating opportunities for people with disabilities to participate, compete and thrive in sport. As Laois Sports Partnership celebrates 25 years of supporting communities through sport and physical activity, we are delighted to support the Laois Inclusion Games and look forward to the official launch on 14th August as we mark this important milestone together.”
Tracey Percy, VIP Hub Co-ordinator, said:
“The Laois Inclusion Games are about creating opportunities for people to get involved, try new sports and connect with others. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or taking part for the first time, we look forward to welcoming everyone for a fantastic weekend of sport, inclusion and community spirit.”
Laois Sports Partnership and the VIP Hub would like to thank People First Credit Union, Vision Sports Ireland, Sport Ireland, participating sports organisations, local clubs, schools and community partners for their support.
A special thank you is extended to the volunteers, coaches, guides and supporters whose dedication continues to make inclusive sporting opportunities possible throughout County Laois.
For event updates, programme announcements and participation opportunities, follow Laois Sports Partnership and VIP Hub Laois on Facebook and Instagram.
You can also visit call 057 867 1248 for further information.
We look forward to welcoming athletes, families and supporters from across Ireland to celebrate sport, inclusion and community at the Laois Inclusion Games 2026.
