Irish Amateur Wrestling Est. 1947

Parents and Volunteer Roles

A volunteer at the Irish Open merchandise stand

Parents and Volunteers – Get Involved in Irish Wrestling

Supporting Our Clubs, Athletes and the Future of Wrestling in Ireland

Volunteers Are the Heart of Irish Wrestling

The Irish Amateur Wrestling Association (I.A.W.A.) recognises that parents, volunteers, coaches, referees and club officials are essential to the continued growth and success of wrestling throughout Ireland.

As a sporting organisation supported by the dedication of volunteers, the I.A.W.A. relies on individuals who generously contribute their time, knowledge and experience to support our clubs, athletes and competitions.

From helping at local training sessions and youth tournaments to organising national championships and serving on club committees, volunteers make an invaluable contribution to Irish wrestling.

Much of this work takes place behind the scenes, but it is essential to providing safe, enjoyable and rewarding sporting opportunities for our members.

Whether you can offer a few hours occasionally or take on a regular role, your contribution can make a real difference.

Why Volunteer with Irish Wrestling?

Volunteering is a rewarding way to become involved in sport, support your local community and contribute to the development of athletes.

You do not need to have previous wrestling experience to make a valuable contribution.

By volunteering, you can:

  • Support children and young people in developing confidence, discipline and sporting skills.
  • Help create a positive and welcoming club environment.
  • Meet new people and become part of the wrestling community.
  • Develop organisational, leadership and communication skills.
  • Gain experience in coaching, officiating or sports administration.
  • Help clubs organise training sessions, competitions and events.
  • Contribute to the growth and development of wrestling in Ireland.

For parents, volunteering is also an excellent opportunity to become more involved in their child’s sporting experience.

Ways You Can Get Involved

There are many opportunities to volunteer within I.A.W.A.-affiliated clubs and at Association events.

1. Club Support and Administration

Wrestling clubs rely on volunteers to assist with their day-to-day operations.

Roles may include:

  • Club administration and membership coordination.
  • Assisting with registrations and communications.
  • Supporting club committees.
  • Organising training schedules and activities.
  • Helping with fundraising and sponsorship.
  • Supporting club development projects.
  • Assisting with equipment and facilities.

2. Competition and Event Volunteers

Competitions require considerable planning and support to run successfully.

Volunteers can assist with:

  • Athlete registration and check-in.
  • Weigh-in administration and coordination.
  • Competition preparation and venue setup.
  • Mat setup and equipment management.
  • Event administration and information desks.
  • Medal presentations.
  • Supporting visiting clubs and teams.
  • Event logistics and coordination.

Volunteers play an important role in the successful delivery of I.A.W.A. championships and other wrestling events.

3. Coaching and Athlete Development

Individuals with an interest in wrestling may wish to become involved in coaching or assisting with training activities.

The I.A.W.A. provides coaching education opportunities for those interested in developing their knowledge and qualifications.

Coaches and assistant coaches must meet the relevant I.A.W.A. membership, coaching, safeguarding and Garda Vetting requirements.

4. Refereeing and Officiating

Wrestling competitions depend on trained referees, judges and technical officials.

The I.A.W.A. encourages individuals interested in officiating to participate in relevant training and development opportunities.

Officiating can provide a rewarding pathway for former wrestlers, parents and other individuals who wish to remain involved in the sport.

5. Safeguarding and Club Welfare

Affiliated clubs require individuals to undertake important safeguarding and administrative responsibilities.

These may include:

  • Club Children’s Officer.
  • Designated Liaison Person.
  • Garda Vetting Validator.
  • Club committee or governance roles.

These positions require appropriate training, knowledge and compliance with I.A.W.A. safeguarding procedures.

6. Transport and Team Support

Parents and volunteers may assist clubs with the practical arrangements associated with training, competitions and team travel.

This can include helping coordinate transport, communicating with families and supporting event arrangements.

All activities involving children must comply with applicable safeguarding, supervision, parental consent and transport policies.

The Important Role of Parents

Parents and guardians play a vital role in supporting children and young people involved in wrestling.

Their encouragement, involvement and positive attitude can greatly influence a young athlete’s confidence, enjoyment and long-term participation.

The I.A.W.A. encourages parents to:

  • Support their children’s participation and personal development.
  • Promote enjoyment, effort and learning rather than focusing solely on winning.
  • Respect coaches, referees, officials and other athletes.
  • Encourage good sportsmanship and positive behaviour.
  • Support regular attendance and appropriate preparation for training.
  • Help children maintain a healthy balance between sport, education and family life.
  • Communicate openly with coaches and club officials.
  • Become involved in club activities where possible.

A positive sporting environment is created when athletes, parents, coaches and volunteers work together.

Safeguarding and Garda Vetting Requirements

The safety and welfare of children and young people are fundamental priorities of the I.A.W.A.

All volunteers must follow the Association’s safeguarding policies, codes of conduct and relevant club procedures.

Depending on the nature of their responsibilities, volunteers may be required to complete:

  • Registration as an I.A.W.A. member.
  • Garda Vetting.
  • Sport Ireland Safeguarding 1 training.
  • Additional safeguarding education relevant to their role.
  • I.A.W.A. coaching or officiating qualifications.
  • Role-specific induction or training.

Garda Vetting

Individuals undertaking relevant work or activities involving children or vulnerable persons must complete the appropriate Garda Vetting procedures before commencing those duties.

Garda Vetting is administered through the I.A.W.A. for eligible registered members.

Not every occasional volunteer role requires Garda Vetting. The requirement depends on the nature of the duties involved.

Clubs must ensure that volunteers are appropriately recruited, trained and authorised for their assigned responsibilities.

For more information, visit the Garda Vetting section of the I.A.W.A. website or contact iawagardavetting@gmail.com.

Supporting Volunteers

The I.A.W.A. recognises the importance of ensuring that volunteers feel welcomed, supported and valued.

Affiliated clubs are encouraged to provide clear information about volunteer roles, appropriate guidance and opportunities for training and development.

Volunteers should understand their responsibilities, know who to contact for assistance and feel confident in carrying out their duties.

The Association is committed to encouraging positive volunteering experiences and recognising the contribution of those who help develop wrestling in Ireland.

Become an I.A.W.A. Volunteer

Whether you are a parent, former wrestler, coach, student or simply someone who enjoys supporting community sport, there are opportunities to become involved in Irish wrestling.

You may wish to help occasionally at a competition, support your local club or pursue a more regular role in coaching, officiating or administration.

Every contribution, large or small, helps strengthen our clubs and creates more opportunities for wrestlers throughout Ireland.

Interested in Volunteering?

Contact your local I.A.W.A.-affiliated wrestling club or get in touch with the Association.

Irish Amateur Wrestling Association CLG

Together, We Can Build a Stronger Future for Irish Wrestling.