Now in its eighth year, this programme continues to be delivered by Youth Sport Trust and their specially trained athlete mentors, all of whom are current or former inter-county ladies' Gaelic football players. The programme aims to address the drop-out rates for teenagers in the sport and from being physically active. Across two school visits, the athlete mentors educate a selected group of pupils in each school on the health, wellbeing, and life skill benefits of being physically active and involved in sport, tasking the girls to experience and share what they have learned through a school project.

Boasting an impressive array of achievements, this year's programme is delivered by a stellar lineup of LGFA inter-county players: Anne Marie Doran (Kildare), Deirdre O'Reilly (Cork), Leah Caffrey (Dublin), Hannah Tyrrell (Dublin), Therese McNally (Monaghan), Cathy Carey (Antrim), Samantha Lambert (Tipperary), Muireann Devaney (Leitrim), Charlene Tyrrell (Leitrim), Joanne Doonan (Fermanagh), Susanne White (Donegal), Sophie Daly (Cavan), Meabh De Burca (Galway), and Laurie Ryan (Clare).

Youth Sport Trust Chief Executive, Ali Oliver MBE, said:

“Youth Sport Trust is proud to partner with Lidl Ireland and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association to deliver the #SeriousSupport Schools Programme. Too many young people across the Republic of Ireland aren’t reaching the recommended levels of physical activity, and research shows teenage girls face unique challenges that can limit their participation. This programme is helping to break down those barriers by empowering more girls to get active and experience the wide-ranging benefits of sport and play, from improved wellbeing and resilience to the development of vital life skills.

We’re delighted to collaborate with two organisations that share our values and commitment to youth development. Together, we’re creating more opportunities for girls to thrive through sport and access the life-changing benefits it brings.”

Tom Mughal, Brand Embassy Director for Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, said:

"We’re thrilled to launch the eighth year of Lidl’s #SeriousSupport Schools Programme. The growing number of participating schools and students speaks volumes about the programme’s success, and the feedback we’ve received has been nothing short of inspiring. It’s clear that this initiative is making a real difference in the lives of young people.

Research continues to show the powerful benefits of sport for young girls, from improved physical and mental wellbeing to greater confidence and resilience. Through our team of exceptional athlete mentors and true sporting heroes, we’re helping to identify and break down the barriers that prevent participation, supporting students on their journey to healthier, more active lives. Congratulations to the 26 schools selected for this year’s programme, and a heartfelt thank you to our loyal shoppers who took the time to nominate their local schools. Your support helps bring this programme to life.”

Miriam Byrne, teacher from St. Ciarán's Community School, Co. Meath, commented:

“The girls loved meeting Leah today, and her experience and advice was so relevant. It was incredible to see the girls share their stories, and I know it will make a difference to us as a school going forward. A huge thank you to all of you.”