08/03/2026
*To Celebrate International Women’s Day We Take a Look at The Rise of Women’s Squash in Westport*
The growth of women’s participation at Westport Squash Club over the past 15 years has been remarkable. In 2011, the club ladder featured just one female player — Fiona Gallagher — the only woman member playing competitively at the time.
Fast forward to today and the club now has over 55 registered female members, with 25 women competing regularly on the club ladder.
A major turning point came in 2021 when, following the pandemic, dedicated coaches Gerry Galvin and Paul Bree introduced women-only introductory squash courses. Running several times each year, these sessions created a welcoming and supportive environment for women to try the sport for the first time. The initiative proved hugely successful and the courses have since evolved into mixed introductory programmes.
Regular Monday evening coaching sessions, internal blitzes and mixed club competitions have helped players develop their skills while also building a strong and supportive community.
In 2024, the Westport ladies entered a team in the Connacht Squash League for the first time. Not only was the experience hugely enjoyable, but the team went on to win the cup in Galway — a fantastic achievement.
More recently, the club hosted a Connacht women’s blitz in partnership with Connacht Squash involving six clubs and 40 players, helping to strengthen connections between squash communities across the region.
Perhaps the greatest success story is the friendships formed along the way. Squash has proven to be an ideal sport for busy lives — it’s not weather dependent, can be played at a time that suits, and a great game can be enjoyed in just 45 minutes.
From one woman on the ladder to a thriving community of players, women’s squash in Westport is a great example of what can happen when opportunity, encouragement and community come together.
# SquashIreland
# ConnachtSquash
# WomeninSport
# GirlPower
# SameEnergy
# InternationalWonensDay
# MayoSportsPartnership