Miriam O'Callaghan

Miriam O'Callaghan (Miriam Ní Cheallacháin) became the 26th president of the Camogie Association when she defeated Helen McAleevy of Down 39-27 at the 2003 congress in the Arklow Bay Hotel.

From Tullamore, she chaired Offaly County Camogie Board and refereed the 1991 and 1993 All Ireland senior finals.

Her presidency was distinguished by new marketing initiatives including a brash and high-profile centenary “‘chicks with sticks”‘ campaign. She launched the 2004-08 strategic plan that increased camogie’s club base by 20pc, wand led to new county boards being established in Mayo, Kerry and Donegal. At the end of her presidency club numbers reach an all-time high of 515.

During her presidency the Camogie Association appointed a full-time National Development co-ordinator and two regional development co-ordinators.

She renegotiated, with the assistance of Leinster Chairman Liam O'Neill, the twinning of the camogie finals with the under-21 hurling final, an arrangement that lasted from 2006 to 2009.

She initiated moves to integrate the camogie association and GAA.

In 2003 the first full-time sponsorship and finance manager was appointed and the All-Ireland Junior Club Championship was inaugurated and won by Crossmaglen.

In 2004 she unveiled a plaque at Navan to celebrate the centenary of the Camogie Association. The Association celebrated 100 years with a Gala Banquet, the announcement of the Team of the Century and numerous other events. The first All Star team was announced in December 2004. As part of the centenary celebrations, RTÉ covered the All Ireland semi-finals live on television for the first time.

While Camogie President she was appointed to serve on the Broadcasting Complaints Commission. After her presidency she was elected Chair of Offaly Sports Partnership.