In a groundbreaking decision, the Camogie Athletic Association has revised its long-standing uniform policy, permitting players in Ireland's traditional women’s sport to opt for shorts or skorts during official matches. This pivotal change comes after an exhaustive debate that highlighted the need for gender equity in sports attire, especially given the skort requirement had been in place for over a century, rooted in the historical context of the game's development amid British occupation.
On May 22, 2025, a committee vote unanimously endorsed this progressive measure, reflecting the changing attitudes towards women's sports in contemporary Ireland. Niamh Hanniffy from Galway and Meabh Murphy from Cork had notably donned skorts during a final in Dublin the previous year, representing the distinctly traditional attire of women's Camogie.
The Gaelic Player’s Association, an organization that champions athletes within the sport, celebrated the decision. They expressed gratitude for the voices of Camogie players throughout Ireland who insisted on this change, emphasizing that the new policy is one of choice rather than obligation.
Despite being a sport that prides itself on modern values, the debate surrounding uniform requirements had revealed underlying issues of gender bias. Former Camogie All-Star Jane Adams pointed out that the skort rule reinforced sexist norms, which detached many female athletes from the sport.
Research indicates that attire can significantly impact young girls’ participation in athletics, often leading them to abandon sports due to discomfort with traditional clothing. The Camogie Association, adhering to treaties of tradition and history, previously resisted modifications that now, after widespread advocacy, align with player aspirations for comfort and preference.
This decision not only signifies a progressive step for Camogie but also reflects a broader movement towards inclusivity and equality in women's sports, inviting other sports associations to reconsider outdated practices.
