Sport in Ireland - statistics & facts
Just like anywhere else in the world, sports play a vital role in the Republic of Ireland, culturally as well as for the population's well-being. Overall, approximately 46 percent of adults in Ireland participate in sport and physical activity, while 35 percent have a club membership and 12 percent volunteer. When it comes to age, roughly 63 percent of those under 35 regularly do sports. Of the Irish population afflicted with a long-term illness or disability, a third is actively taking part in sports.
As in most countries around the world, children and adolescents are most active physically, with 70 percent of primary school pupils and 63 percent of older school students participating in some type of sport. Of primary school pupils, 17 percent meet the physical activity guidelines.
Just like in Northern Ireland or any of the countries in the United Kingdom, sport is regulated and supported by a governing body. In the Republic of Ireland it is Sport Ireland, under which many sport associations regulate the different types of sport played in the country. In terms of clubs, athletics, cycling and swimming are among the most popular sports, however golfing, rugby, football and equestrian sports are also favored in Ireland.
As in most countries around the world, children and adolescents are most active physically, with 70 percent of primary school pupils and 63 percent of older school students participating in some type of sport. Of primary school pupils, 17 percent meet the physical activity guidelines.
Just like in Northern Ireland or any of the countries in the United Kingdom, sport is regulated and supported by a governing body. In the Republic of Ireland it is Sport Ireland, under which many sport associations regulate the different types of sport played in the country. In terms of clubs, athletics, cycling and swimming are among the most popular sports, however golfing, rugby, football and equestrian sports are also favored in Ireland.
