Chloe Magee appointed to new role in ‘significant step’ for Badminton Ireland

Badminton Ireland believe that the appointed of three-time Olympian Chloe Magee as its first Women in Sport and National Development Manager is a ‘significant step’.

The Raphoe woman was unveiled this week in her new role by Badminton Ireland in tandem with the launch of the organisation’s Women in Sport Strategy.

“Magee's role as the Women in Sport and National Development Manager will be instrumental in bringing the strategy to life,” Badminton Ireland said.

“By placing women and girls at the heart of grassroots and high-performance development, Badminton Ireland aims to drive meaningful change and create a lasting impact.”

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Magee was installed as an Ulster Activation Officer last year. The fruits of that labour have been seen across the province. Her native Raphoe Badminton Club continues to flourish under her influence.

Magee represented Ireland at the Olympic Games in 2008, 2012 and 2016. Alongside her brother Sam, she won mixed doubles bronze medals at the 2017 European Championships and at the European Games in 2015 and 2019.

Badminton Ireland said: “Her vast experience as a player and dedication to the sport make her an ideal fit for this crucial position.”

Badminton Ireland pointed to the assistant of Sport Ireland and the Women in Sport programme for its support in the role. Badminton Ireland say their new Women in Sport Strategy ‘recognises the importance of engaging teenage badminton players to ensure their continued involvement in the sport’.

“Women and girls have an equal opportunity to achieve their full potential while enjoying a lifelong involvement in sport,” Catherine Smyth, President of Badminton Ireland, said.

“We believe that the appointment of Chloe as our first Women in Sport and National Development Manager, coupled with the strategy document, will create a pathway towards making a true impact in this area.”

Fahan woman Nora Stapleton, a former Ireland rugby international and Donegal Gaelic footballer, is the Director of Strategic NGB Programmes and Women in Sport Lead with Sport Ireland.

Stapleton said: “As well as being a role model for so many across the badminton community, Chloe can now share her passion and use her exceptional experience to put pathways and structures in place to enable so many more to play and thrive in the sport she loves.”