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.
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.
A celebration of sport, participation, achievement and belonging, bringing together people of all abilities to compete, connect and experience the power of inclusive sport. Delivered through the VIP Hub in partnership with Laois Sports Partnership and community organisations, the Games will feature a wide range of activities including para cycling, wheelchair basketball, blind and visually impaired sports, athletics, swimming, football and more. Whether you are taking part, supporting a participant or simply coming along to enjoy the atmosphere, the Inclusion Games showcases the opportunities that exist for everyone to be active, included and connected through sport. Join us as we celebrate inclusion, community and sporting achievement across an exciting weekend of events
