A growing body of research suggests playing sport supports both personal and professional development and is key to leadership development for women. 
 
Last year the EY Women Athletes Business Network found that female executives are more likely to have played sports than those in non-leadership roles — and they're also more likely to hire other women who have played a sport. 

The report says playing sports can help women develop motivational skills, team building skills, and the ability to see projects through to completion — and it equips women with the competitive spirit that's essential for success both on the playing field and in the workplace.
 
This comes after the young players of UCD’s International Women’s Gaelic team took to the field in Shanghai last week to compete at the Fexco Asian Gaelic Games 
 
ESB International’s People and Transformation manager, Joyce Farrell oversees a female development programme within the company, designed to help women progress.

ESB International is sponsoring the team as it fits well with the global consultancy’s drive to help ensure women are equipped to reach their career goals even in traditionally male dominated sectors such as engineering.  
 
According to Farrell, "I have a great admiration for the young women in the UCD International Gaelic team. They are equipping themselves with a set of skills which will help them get ready for the work place and are having great fun in the process.

"ESB International have invested greatly in developing talent especially amongst women in the workforce and sport can play an integral role as it compliments both education and any chosen career.

"The aim of the UCD team is to help international students integrate into Irish culture and through the magic of sport this is achieved even whilst aiding the woman’s personal and professional growth through building their confidence and giving them that competitive edge."

Source: www.businessworld.ie