The pathway for young paddlers looking to start their journey in Canoe Slalom has had a massive boost with the setup of the Canoe Slalom Academy. Along with the setup of the Academy, Canoeing Ireland has appointed an Academy Coordinator to ensure the best possible experience for any young paddlers looking to get into slalom, and to support the programme being taken nationwide.
Oisín Farrell, having retired from international competition earlier in 2022, has come on board as the coordinator of the Academy. Bringing with him a fantastic amount of experience from 10 years racing with the Irish team, Oisín has gotten the Academy off to a great start with 3 Leinster based clubs already participating regularly in Canoe Slalom training sessions. The aim for the Academy is to create a pathway for any young paddler looking to try out Canoe Slalom, supporting their journey from introduction to the sport all the way to the national team. With a Coordinator now in place the plans are to take the Academy nationwide, getting hubs set up in key locations around the country to have as many clubs involved, and as many paddlers in slalom boats as possible.
We would like to thank the Olympic Federation of Ireland and Mike Corcoran for their support in the set up of the Academy, and are looking forward to rewarding their support with a bright future for Canoe Slalom.
For more details about the academy, or to get your club involved please contact slalomacademy@canoe.ie
Stay up to date with the academy on their Instagram –
