As part of the implementation of its 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, Rowing Ireland has announced several new appointments that reflect its commitment to system-wide development, Club and athlete support, and long-term competitive success.
Rowing Ireland says the appointments represent a significant step in building the capacity and capability required to deliver on the organisation’s strategic objectives, particularly in high performance, participation growth, governance, and athlete—and club-centred support.
High Performance Appointments
Under the Interim High Performance Lead Coach of Dominic Casey, one of the world’s most accomplished rowing coaches, Rowing Ireland is enhancing its High Performance Coaching Team by adding new roles that directly support talent development, performance delivery, and athlete preparation.
- Dominic Casey – Interim High Performance Lead Coach, bringing his exceptional experience and proven leadership to guide Ireland's top rowing athletes on the International stage.
- Clara O’Brien – High Performance Pathways Coordinator, supporting athlete development and working closely with clubs to align progression pathways with Olympic and International performance targets.
- Ed Hartery – High Performance Strength and Conditioning Coach. A sports science graduate and PhD candidate at the University of Limerick, Ed brings extensive experience in athlete development and has played a key role in supporting Ireland's emerging rowing talent.
- Denise Walsh – High Performance Coach, brings a decorated international rowing career to her current role. Her achievements include a silver medal at the 2017 European Championships and a gold medal at World Cup I in Belgrade (2017). Denise remained a part of the High Performance programme until 2019 and now contributes her expertise to coaching and mentoring the next generation of athletes.
- Daniel Blaser – High Performance Coach. Joining from Basel Rowing Club, Switzerland, Daniel brings a strong track record in developing junior international talent. His Coaching highlights include a silver medal in the Junior Eight at the Coupe de la Jeunesse and a bronze in the Coxless Pair (2023). In 2024, he guided several athletes to international selection with the Swiss Rowing Federation.
Organisational Development
As part of its commitment to continuous improvement and aligned with its organisational priorities, Rowing Ireland is introducing several key operational roles. These positions are designed to strengthen internal systems, support Rowing Ireland clubs, and foster a more inclusive and athlete-centred environment:
- High Performance Wellness Officer
This new position, based at the National Rowing Centre, will manage High-Performance athlete nutrition and recovery services. The role is central to ensuring that athletes' daily fuelling and wellness needs are met in our high-performance environment. - Head of Governance and Planning
A senior leadership Operations position working closely with the CEO to ensure that Rowing Ireland remains compliant, financially sustainable, and strategically aligned. This role will be pivotal in delivering on our strategic plan, strengthening operations, and future-proofing the organisation for long-term success. - Indoor Rowing Project Officer
A newly created post focused on growing the discipline of indoor rowing across Ireland. This role will drive increased participation, broaden access, and establish a performance pathway within this rapidly developing sport area. - Safeguarding and Safe Sport Officer
This dedicated role will enhance oversight and provide direct support to athletes and clubs, reinforcing our commitment to athlete welfare. The appointment follows Tadhg Branigan's transition to the Events and Coastal Rowing role, where he will support the growth and integration of coastal rowing in the lead-up to Los Angeles 2028 and oversee the continued development of our event strategy.
