Starting a Tug of War Club in Ireland
How to Start a Tug of War Club in Ireland
Starting a tug of war club is a rewarding way to build sport, teamwork, and community in your local area. Tug of War Ireland supports new clubs through a clear affiliation process, governance guidance, and access to coaching, competition, and funding & development opportunities.
This page outlines the steps involved in establishing a club that is officially registered with Tug of War Ireland, along with the benefits of becoming part of the national governing body.
Table of Contents
Establish Local Interest
The first step in forming a club is identifying interest within your community. This may include friends, family members, local sportspeople, schools, or community groups who are interested in training and competing together.
A strong base of local interest helps ensure your club is sustainable and community-focused from the outset.
Register Founding Members
To affiliate as a club with Tug of War Ireland, you must have a minimum of five registered members who have completed individual membership registration.
These founding members form the core of the club and will be responsible for establishing its initial structure and direction, in line with Tug of War Ireland affiliation requirements
Hold a Club Formation Meeting
Once your founding members are in place, you should hold a formal meeting to establish the club. At this meeting, the club should:
- Agree to form a Tug of War club
- Adopt a club structure and purpose
- Appoint key committee officers
Tug of War Ireland recommends appointing, at a minimum:
- Chair
- Secretary
- Treasurer
Many clubs also appoint additional roles such as:
- Public Relations Officer (PRO)
- Development Officer
These roles support good governance, communication, and long-term growth.
Register Your Club with Tug of War Ireland
Following the formation meeting, your club can complete club registration with Tug of War Ireland.
Affiliated clubs are required to:
- Submit evidence of a valid club constitution
- Operate in accordance with Tug of War Ireland rules, policies, and procedures
- Pay the annual club membership fee by the required deadline
Once registered, your club becomes an officially recognised Tug of War Ireland club and is bound by national governance standards
Follow the Club Governance Framework
All clubs are required to operate in line with the Tug of War Ireland Club Governance Handbook, which provides guidance on:
- Committee roles and responsibilities
- Safeguarding and welfare standards
- Financial oversight and transparency
- Equality, inclusion, and diversity
- Risk management and compliance
Good governance protects your club, your volunteers, and your members, and supports long-term sustainability
Once Your Club Is Established
Recruit & Develop Members
Established clubs may recruit members of all ages and abilities, supporting participation at both grassroots and competitive levels.
Fully affiliated clubs may also engage with local schools and communities to introduce younger participants and help grow the sport locally.
Coach & Officials Education
Club coaches can register for Tug of War Ireland Coach Education Courses, which are delivered twice yearly.
All club coaches are required to complete the Intro to Coaching course, accredited by Tug of War Ireland and Sport Ireland.
Judging courses are also available to club members, supporting the delivery of competitions and events.
Community Benefits & Funding
Clubs can play an active role in their local community by working with schools, youth groups, and community organisations to introduce inclusive tug of war activities.
Recognised clubs may engage with Local Sports Partnerships or other funding supports and can take part in or organise local competitions, sports days, and community events that encourage participation and community connection.
Competitions
& Events
Affiliated clubs are eligible to:
- Enter teams in Tug of War Ireland sanctioned competitions
- Participate in competitions both nationally & internationally.
- Apply for permits to organise local promotional events
- Host open Tug of War Ireland club competitions
Interested in starting a Tug of War club?
Reach out to our team to discuss, explore resources, and introduce your students to this inclusive, team-building sport.
