GPA Push For Player Choice In Camogie Amid Widespread Discomfort

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A new paper developed by the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) is calling for urgent change in camogie attire regulations.

The paper highlights significant discomfort among the inter-county camogie players regarding the mandatory wearing of skorts. It advocates for player choice between skorts and shorts, with player welfare at the centre of the conversation.

The findings come after a survey of 650 inter-county players. It revealed that 70% of players experience discomfort while wearing skorts, and 65% voiced concerns about unwanted exposure in media, affecting their mental health. 

49% of respondents reported anxiety around potential period leaks, raising further issues around the mental wellbeing in sport.

83% of surveyed players would prefer to wear shorts instead of skorts, or believe that players should have a choice between the two.

The paper cites Sport Ireland’s ‘Women In Sport Policy, which champions gender equality and athlete empowerment, which is undermined by mandatory skorts in camogie.

The paper argues that the mandated attire leads to discomfort and anxiety, as well as exposure that directly contradicts internationally accepted principles. A quote from the paper reads,

“Player welfare should be prioritised over established norms and traditions in decision making”.

The GPA have stated that players are open to collaborative dialogue the the Camogie Association and other bodies.

For many players, the conversation around shorts vs. skorts is long overdue, and there are high hopes that this paper is a step forward towards achieving reform.

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