Benefits of Joining

Become Part of Ireland’s Wrestling Community

Whether you are an athlete, coach, referee, volunteer or club owner, joining the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association (I.A.W.A.) connects you with Ireland’s nationally and internationally recognised governing body for Olympic Wrestling and associated wrestling disciplines.

Established in 1947, the I.A.W.A. is committed to developing wrestling throughout Ireland by supporting athletes, coaches, officials and affiliated clubs at every level, from grassroots participation to international competition.

Membership provides access to recognised training and education programmes, national competitions, development opportunities and the support of an experienced National Governing Body.

Individual Membership

Becoming an individual member of the I.A.W.A. offers a wide range of benefits, whether you are new to wrestling, an experienced competitor, a coach or an official.

As a member, you become part of a growing national wrestling community, supported by an organisation dedicated to promoting safe, inclusive and high-quality sporting opportunities.

Recognition and Representation

• Membership of Ireland’s National Governing Body for Olympic Wrestling, affiliated with United World Wrestling (UWW).
• Eligibility to participate in I.A.W.A.-sanctioned competitions, tournaments, training camps, seminars and development programmes, subject to event requirements.
• Opportunities for selection to represent Ireland at European Championships, World Championships, international tournaments and potentially the Olympic Games, subject to selection criteria and eligibility.

Training and Development

• Access to I.A.W.A. coaching education, development workshops and technical training programmes.
• Opportunities to participate in national and international wrestling training camps and exchange programmes.
• Access to recognised coaching and high-performance education opportunities through Sport Ireland and Local Sports Partnerships, where available.
• Opportunities to apply for athlete development assistance or funding programmes, subject to availability and eligibility.

Safeguarding and Welfare

• Access to safeguarding education and training opportunities.
• Access to Garda Vetting through the I.A.W.A. for eligible members undertaking relevant roles, in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Access to anti-doping education, information and resources in line with Sport Ireland and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) standards.
• Guidance and support on athlete welfare, safe sporting practices and responsible participation.

Insurance and Membership Services

• Option to purchase Personal Accident Insurance designed for eligible sporting activities, subject to an additional premium, policy terms, conditions and exclusions.
• Access to a personal online membership profile, allowing members to manage and update their registration details.
• Access to information, guidance and support from the I.A.W.A. on wrestling-related matters.

Officiating and Volunteering

• Opportunities to train and develop as a wrestling referee or competition official.
• Access to I.A.W.A. referee and officials’ education programmes.
• Opportunities to become involved in competitions, events and the wider development of wrestling in Ireland.

Club Affiliation Benefits

Grow your club with the support of Irish Wrestling.

Affiliating your wrestling club with the I.A.W.A. provides recognition, support and access to a national network dedicated to developing wrestling throughout Ireland.

Running a successful wrestling club involves much more than delivering training sessions. Clubs must also consider governance, insurance, safeguarding, coaching standards, financial sustainability and the welfare of their members.

The I.A.W.A. works with affiliated clubs to help them meet these responsibilities while providing opportunities to grow participation, develop coaches and athletes, and become involved in national and international wrestling activities.

Official Recognition and Support

• Recognition as an affiliated club of Ireland’s National Governing Body for Olympic Wrestling.
• Connection to the national and international wrestling community through the I.A.W.A. and United World Wrestling.
• Guidance and support on club development, governance, administration and good sporting practices.
• Opportunities to contribute to the future development of wrestling in Ireland.

Insurance Opportunities

• Access to the I.A.W.A.’s group Public Liability Insurance arrangements for eligible affiliated clubs, subject to an additional premium, eligibility requirements, policy terms and exclusions.
• Opportunity for registered club members to purchase optional Personal Accident Insurance, subject to the relevant policy conditions.
• Guidance on insurance responsibilities and the importance of maintaining appropriate cover for club activities.

Competitions and Athlete Development

• Opportunities for eligible club members to participate in I.A.W.A.-sanctioned national competitions and championships.
• Pathways for talented athletes to progress towards national team selection and international competition.
• Access to national training camps, open mats, technical seminars and athlete development programmes.
• Opportunities to participate in international wrestling exchanges and collaborative training initiatives.

Coaching and Education

• Access to I.A.W.A.-recognised coaching education and certification programmes.
• Opportunities for coaches to attend technical workshops, seminars and continuing professional development activities.
• Access to relevant education and training programmes provided through Sport Ireland and Local Sports Partnerships.
• Opportunities to develop qualified referees, officials and volunteers within the club.

Safeguarding and Compliance

• Access to Garda Vetting services for eligible club personnel through the I.A.W.A.
• Access to safeguarding training and guidance on child protection responsibilities.
• Support in meeting I.A.W.A. club affiliation, coaching and safeguarding requirements.
• Access to anti-doping education and guidance for athletes, coaches and club officials.

Funding and Club Development

• Information and guidance on relevant grant schemes and funding opportunities, subject to eligibility.
• Support and advice on increasing club participation and membership.
• Opportunities to engage with national initiatives promoting wrestling among children, young people, women and girls, and adults.
• Access to information and resources to assist clubs in developing safe, sustainable and inclusive sporting environments.

Members and Coaches Code of Conduct

Please read the Members and Coaches Code of Conduct before joining or renewing any I.A.W.A. membership.

Join Irish Wrestling Today

Whether your ambition is to enjoy wrestling recreationally, compete at the highest level, develop your coaching skills or establish a successful wrestling club, the I.A.W.A. is here to support your journey.

Become a member or affiliate your club today and help shape the future of wrestling & Grappling Sports in Ireland.

Please note: Membership and club affiliation benefits are subject to applicable eligibility criteria, I.A.W.A. policies, programme availability and relevant terms and conditions. Insurance cover is not automatic and is subject to the terms, limits and exclusions of the applicable policy.