The regulations currently in place regarding playing attire for camogie stipulate that it must consist of a skirt, skort (a pair of shorts with an overlapping fabric panel that resembles a skirt), or a divided skirt. In contrast, women’s gaelic football allows for shorts to be worn. Camogie is overseen by the Camogie Association of Ireland, which is closely connected to the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), as well as the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, which is set to formally merge into the broader GAA in 2027.
Former player Jane Adams expressed that skorts have long been an issue for players throughout her 20-year career. She retired in 2016 and finds it hard to believe that in 2025, the attire debate still persists rather than being a choice. Adams views the requirement as a sexist imposition, emphasizing that it should be about player comfort. She suggests that the persistence of such rules may contribute to girls disengaging from camogie, emphasizing the need for a solution-oriented approach.
A recent survey conducted by the Gaelic Players Association revealed that 70% of players experienced discomfort while wearing skorts, with 83% desiring the option to wear shorts instead. Cork camogie player Ashling Thompson indicated that Cork will wear shorts in an upcoming match, refusing to switch to skorts, even if it means risking game abandonment or forfeiting the title to Waterford. This demonstrates the players’ strong stance on the issue and their willingness to challenge the existing norms.
Aislín Ní Choinn, a long-time camogie player, noted that skorts are unfit for purpose and cause discomfort among players, particularly in vulnerable situations like when they are on their period. She highlighted the distraction the attire poses during games when players are preoccupied with adjusting their uniform. Despite the controversy surrounding the dress code, captain Elen McIntosh of Ballycastle’s senior camogie team believes that more significant issues like facility access, funding, and media coverage should take precedence. Nevertheless, McIntosh supports giving players the freedom to choose their playing attire rather than mandating specific garments
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