Diversity
Sports Solutions
About Alicia McConnell
Founder
I am truly passionate about supporting National Governing Bodies, Local Sport Partnerships and health and wellness organisations to create a more inclusive world through sports. With over 30 years of experience in the sports industry specializing in community engagement, I've dedicated my career to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Sport develops connections, creates opportunities, and builds life skills which assists in leveling the playing field for all.
I have played both squash and lacrosse at international levels and have had the honour of being inducted into several Halls of Fame including; U.S Squash, University of Pennsylvania, and Intercollegiate Squash.
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Upon retiring from a highly successful playing career, I then became a full time club and national coach before joining the U.S. Olympic Committee as Director of Training Sites and Community Partnerships.
I have worked to develop grassroots programming in partnership with NGBs in addition to leadership roles within the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
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I have worked with over 60+ NGBs and sports organizations in both the U.S. and in Ireland. I moved to Ireland in 2018 and was invited to join the Sporting Pride Board, partnering with NGBs, including FAI, GAA, IRFU and LSPs to increase LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.
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I now consult with numerous NGBs on their DEI policies and strategic development in this area.
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I currently serve on Swim Ireland’s Diversity Committee and I am co-chair of Sporting Pride. Sporting Pride is entering it's fourth year working with Sport Ireland on our “Let’s Get Visible” programme and we serve on their Diversity Committee.
Additionally I also serve on the secretariat of the Dublin City Public Participation Network (PPN) initiative. The PPN is a countrywide initiative to build a network of community, social inclusion and environmental groups who work within a local authority area. The focus of the PPN is to empower and assist groups to participate in local decision making.
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I truly believe that the power of sport can bridge gaps and unite communities and I hold a deep conviction that everyone, regardless of their background, should have an equal opportunity to participate and thrive in the world of sport.
I bring a track record of implementing tangible change. From crafting innovative DEI strategies to fostering inclusive cultures and sparking vital conversations, I am well positioned to work with sports organizations to reach new heights of diversity, equity and inclusion.
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