MEET OUR HEADLINE SPEAKERS
Clare Balding
Broadcast Journalist & AuthorClare Balding
Broadcast Journalist & Author- Email: MakeanImpact
Sinead Sharkey-Steenson & Lisa Strutt
Co-founders of Career RebootSinead Sharkey-Steenson & Lisa Strutt
Co-founders of Career Reboot
Michelle Moore
Leadership Coach | Author | Speaker | AdvisorMichelle Moore
Leadership Coach | Author | Speaker | Advisor
We get it—networking can feel awkward, especially if small talk isn’t your thing. That’s why at Impact Players, we’re ditching the fluff and creating opportunities for meaningful conversations that go beyond the surface.
Whether you come with your crew or fly solo, you’ll find yourself surrounded by like-minded leaders who are here for the same reason as you: to make an impact. We’ll guide you to skip the small talk and dive straight into big talk—the conversations that spark ideas, build connections, and inspire action.
From our carefully designed networking moments to facilitated discussions with purpose, you’ll leave with more than just contacts—you’ll leave with friends, allies, and potential collaborators who share your ambition and drive for change.
REFUND PERIOD: Buying your ticket early really helps support the event. And fear not, you can request a no-questions-asked full refund right up until February 1st 2026. After this date, you can sell your ticket and request a free-of-charge name change on your ticket, up to 7 days before the event.
A world-class event with associated fringe events designed to connect and build a community of Impact Players driving change across the business and sporting worlds.
We always hear how the best business is done at a game - let’s change the field together.
Leadership Growth
Explore leadership strategies to help you step into your next big role, using skills you already have.
High-Impact Development
With speakers from elite athletes to leading psychologists, you’ll gain insights to level up your game and career.
Immersive Experience
This isn’t another “sit and listen” event. Expect interactive sessions designed to fuel your ambition and help you take action.
Top Speakers
Our lineup is packed with industry leaders and sports icons—stay tuned for some seriously inspiring names.
Fringe Events
From pre-conference workshops to after-parties, we make sure you’re connecting in a fun environment.
Impact Players is for ambitious women, male allies and non-binary individuals who are ready to harness the competitive edge from the sporting arena and apply it to their careers. We also welcome allies eager to support diverse leadership. Whether you’re in business or sport, this event will connect you with brilliant minds and equip you with the winning mindset and strategies to step up, lead, and make a bigger impact in your field.
Harness the combined power of business and sport to elevate women and non-binary individuals into decision-making and leadership positions.
Build a unique, inclusive network that bridges sport and business, empowering women to connect, support each other, and succeed together.
Increase participation of women and girls in sports at all levels.
- 08:15 - 09:00
Arrival & Registration
Grab your badge, meet the crew, and get ready for a powerful day.
- 09:00 - 10:00
Opening Keynote with Sinead & Lisa
Start strong with our co-founders setting the tone for the day ahead.
- 10:00 - 11:00
In Conversation with Gabby Logan
TV trailblazer. Podcast host. Champion for women in sport. Not to be missed.
- 11:00 - 11:30
Coffee Break
- 11:30 - 12:45
Conversations That Count
Quickfire interview with Communities Minister Gordon Lyons Live: Three Points Podcast feat. Tony McGaharan, Danielle Hill & Jessie Barr Power Talk with Gail Redmond: The Team Behind the Team
- 12:45 - 13:45
Lunch
- 13:45 - 14:45
The Impact Agenda (Panel)
Hosted by Denise Watson with powerhouse guests: Lee Chambers, Kathryn Walls, Amy McMullan, Victoria Armstrong
- 14:45 - 15:05
Power Talk with Jacqui Pope: Powerlifting Your Potential
- 15:05 - 15:30
Break
- 15:30 - 16:10
Dare to Believe (Panel)
Career journeys and transitions with Nic McCarthy, Roisin McGettigan & Claire Curran
- 16:10 - 16:30
Inspiration Session with Emily Steele
- 16:30 – 17:10
Peak Performance in Business with Archita Fritz
- 17:10 – 17:25
Event Wrap-Up
- 17:30 – 19:00
Farewell Drinks
Celebrate, connect, and raise a glass to everything you’ve gained.
Orla Keeling
Writer and Host of The Sideline Live podcastIn her podcast Orla explores performance, coaching, and the human stories behind sport. It has become a trusted space for elite players, coaches, and innovators to share practical lessons and inspiring journeys. Driven by a passion for people and performance, Orla brings a distinctive voice to the intersection of sport, performance and media.
Orla Keeling
Writer and Host of The Sideline Live podcast
Rachel Furness
Northern Ireland’s All-Time Top Scorer | Football CoachFormer Liverpool Women’s vice-captain, Rachel led with resilience: scoring decisive goals, even while playing with a broken leg. From BBC NI Sports Personality of the Year to leading her country to their first major tournament, she inspired as much through her honesty about the mental toll of elite sport as through her power on the pitch. Now, as Newcastle United U16s Head Coach, Rachel is passing on that same fire and belief to the next generation.
Rachel Furness
Northern Ireland’s All-Time Top Scorer | Football Coach
Roger Johnston
CEO of Axial3D | Women's Leadership AdvocateUnder his leadership, Axial3D has achieved international recognition for transforming healthcare with medical 3D printing. Beyond the boardroom, Roger is a phenomenal ally and champion of women in their careers, committed to equity and creating opportunities for women to thrive in leadership. He is equally passionate about giving back through his work with the Cancer Fund for Children, often taking on endurance challenges to raise funds and awareness. Authentic, visionary, and community-driven, Roger embodies what it means to be an Impact Player
Roger Johnston
CEO of Axial3D | Women's Leadership Advocate
Louisa Clarke
Communications SpecialistLouisa helps senior leaders in sport become exceptional communicators to drive sustainable high performance and deliver impact in high-stakes moments. Initially coaching actors and broadcasters at RSC and BBC in presence and authority, she later trained in Transactional Analysis psychotherapy and relational dynamics. This blend of performance craft and psychological insight enables her to support leaders in communicating with clarity, building trust, navigating pressure, and strengthening crucial relationships.
Louisa Clarke
Communications Specialist
Jen Copeland
Everest Summiteer | Physiotherapist | Co-founder of StrideBlending a passion for adventure with expertise in health and wellness, Jenny helps individuals build resilience, recover stronger, and pursue ambitious goals. Having stood on the world’s highest peak, she brings firsthand experience of perseverance, risk, and reward to her work, inspiring the next generation to Dream big and Climb high in pursuing their goals.
Jen Copeland
Everest Summiteer | Physiotherapist | Co-founder of Stride
Gail Redmond MBE
Trailblazer in Women’s Football | Coach U19s/U17s NIGail Redmond MBE is a trailblazer in women’s football and a driving force for positive change in Northern Ireland. Known for her lifelong dedication to the game, Gail’s impact reaches from the grassroots to the elite levels of the sport. She currently serves as the manager for Northern Ireland’s U19 and U17 women’s teams, shaping the next generation of players with her vision and passion.
Gail Redmond MBE
Trailblazer in Women’s Football | Coach U19s/U17s NI Sinead Sharkey-Steenson & Lisa Strutt
Co-Founders of Career RebootSinead and Lisa are powerhouse leaders on a mission to transform the face of leadership in business and sport. With over 20 years of experience each, they’ve coached and inspired more than 10,000 women globally, earning recognition from UEFA and the Irish President. Together, they bring unmatched expertise, energy, and impact to help leaders step into their full potential and change the game at the top.
Sinead Sharkey-Steenson & Lisa Strutt
Co-Founders of Career Reboot Michelle Moore
Conscious Leadership Expert | Author | Executive CoachAuthor of the acclaimed "Real Wins" and named among the UK's 50 Most Influential Women in Sport, Michelle specializes in self-awareness, personal power, and resilience. Her coaching and speaking have transformed professionals and organizations globally, working with clients from The Premier League to UNICEF UK. She's won multiple national awards including Outstanding Woman in Sport.
Michelle Moore
Conscious Leadership Expert | Author | Executive Coach
Clare Balding
Award-winning Broadcaster and AuthorClaire has worked on every Olympic Games since 1996 and on every Paralympics since 2000. Clare won BAFTA’s Special Award for her work on London 2012 and continues to present major events in sport, factual documentaries, and Royal events, including commentary of the King’s Coronation for BBC One. A passionate campaigner for equality and women’s sport, Clare is also a best-selling author of numerous book and children’s novels. In June 2022, it was announced Clare had been awarded a CBE for her services to Sport and Charity which she was honoured to receive at Buckingham Palace in December 2022.
Clare Balding
Award-winning Broadcaster and Author
Kathryn Walls
Technology Lawyer & Athletics CoachKathryn Walls is a pioneering technology lawyer and dedicated athletics coach whose journey into sports began in extraordinary circumstances. She holds an unofficial world record for the fastest marathon while playing the ukulele and singing. Passionate about empowering women, she helps others embrace challenges and create meaningful impact. Her story showcases resilience, leadership, and the unifying power of sport in transforming lives and communities.
Kathryn Walls
Technology Lawyer & Athletics Coach
Nicole Osbourne
Chartered Marketer | Top LinkedIn Voice | International SpeakerNicole transforms LinkedIn into a growth asset for business leaders. With 24 years of marketing experience at organizations including The Financial Times and Mighty Social, she founded Wunderstars to coach leaders through their "Berlin Wall of LinkedIn Fears," helping them leverage personal branding and storytelling to amplify their impact.
Nicole Osbourne
Chartered Marketer | Top LinkedIn Voice | International Speaker
Shirley McCay MBE
Ireland's Most Capped Team Athlete | Talent Manager at Ulster HockeyShirley is Ireland’s most capped athlete in any team sport with an incredible 316 appearances for Irish hockey. A World Cup silver medallist and Olympian, Shirley helped blaze a trail for women in Irish sport, making history at every turn. Honoured with an MBE and an Honorary Doctorate for her services to sport, she now shapes the future of the game as Talent & Pathway Manager at Ulster Hockey. From a non-traditional start to global impact, Shirley’s story is one of resilience, leadership and the power of belief — a true game-changer on and off the pitch.
Shirley McCay MBE
Ireland's Most Capped Team Athlete | Talent Manager at Ulster Hockey
Lucy Traynor
Author, Purpose Leader & Founder of Magnificent RootsLucy is a senior purpose and business transformation leader who previously led Purpose strategy at Deloitte UK, supporting major UK businesses to discover and embed purpose. She's writing a book celebrating purpose and sharing real-life stories to inspire meaning in life and work. Eleven years ago, multiple sclerosis abruptly changed her life. After navigating denial and anxiety, Lucy found her "silver lining"—discovering long-distance running as meditation and escapism. She's training for the 2026 London Marathon, fundraising for MS-UK charity.
Lucy Traynor
Author, Purpose Leader & Founder of Magnificent Roots
Paula Kennedy Garcia
Chief Client Officer for Capita ExperiencePaula Kennedy Garcia is Chief Client Officer for Capita Experience, with 25 years leading conversations at the intersection of global brands, technology, AI, and customer experience. A visionary in emerging tech transformation, she's earned multiple awards for innovation and futurist leadership. An international speaker on CXM, AI, and innovation, Paula is a 2024 TedX alum and published Forbes writer, advancing experiences as technology evolves.
Paula Kennedy Garcia
Chief Client Officer for Capita Experience
Toni Quail
Irish Amateur Jockey & Point-to-Point RiderToni Quail is an Irish amateur jockey from Downpatrick, County Down, crowned 2024/25 Champion Lady Rider in point-to-point racing. With eventing roots representing Ireland at junior and young rider levels, she debuted in point-to-points in 2019, securing her first win in 2020 and first track victory in 2021. Her championship season featured nine winners from sixteen rides. After a serious fall at Punchestown in June 2025 causing neck and back fractures, she's focused on recovery and return.
Toni Quail
Irish Amateur Jockey & Point-to-Point Rider
Sue Anstiss
CEO of Fearless Women & Women’s Sport CollectiveSue Anstiss is an author, director, podcaster, and entrepreneur driving change in women's sport for over 30 years. She received an MBE in 2018 and made the 2024 BBC Woman's Hour Power List. She's directed two documentaries including Game On and Abbie Ward. A Bump in the Road, authored the award-shortlisted book Game On, and hosts the award-winning podcast The Game Changers. She serves on boards including London Mavericks Netball.
Sue Anstiss
CEO of Fearless Women & Women’s Sport Collective2026 TICKETS
YOUR TICKET INCLUDES
- Access to the Event
- Access to the Pre- & After-Party
- Additional Events & Webinars (Coming Soon)
- Access to Recordings of 2025 & 2026 Keynotes
- Access to Our Community Platform (Coming Soon)
- A Fab Lunch & Refreshments on the Day of the Confernece
- ... and more to be announced in the coming months!
EARLY BIRD TICKET
- Access to the Event
- Access to the Pre- & After-Party
- Additional Events & Webinars (Coming Soon)
- Access to Recordings of 2025 & 2026 Keynotes
- Access to Our Community Platform (Coming Soon)
- A Fab Lunch & Refreshments on the Day of the Confernece
- ... and more to be announced in the coming months!
SINGLE TICKET
- Access to the Event
- Access to the Pre- & After Party
- Additional Events & Webinars (Coming Soon)
- Access to Recordings of 2025 & 2026 Keynotes
- Access to Our Community Platform (Coming Soon)
- A Fab Lunch & Refreshments on the Day of the Confernece
- ... and more to be announced in the coming months!
5-a-Side Team Ticket
Get 5 tickets and we'll donate a ticket to an up-and-coming impact player.
- Access to the Event
- Access to the Pre- & After Party
- Additional Events & Webinars (Coming Soon)
- Access to Recordings of 2025 & 2026 Keynotes
- Access to Our Community Platform (Coming Soon)
- A Fab Lunch & Refreshments on the Day of the Confernece
- ... and more to be announced in the coming months!
How to get a group of your friends together to go to Impact Players
Message to the group chat:
I’ve found something I think could be a brilliant thing for us to do together next year… Impact Players 2026.
It’s a full-day experience where women from sport and business share how the sporting mindset can help us think bigger, lead with more confidence, and take bolder action in our careers and lives.
[I went this year and it was…add your own spin]
I heard from loads of people who went and they said it was:
- “The best conference I’ve ever attended.”
- “Still buzzing.”
- “Fun, energetic, empathetic and thought-provoking.”
- “I’m not going to be the same person after this.”
What I love about it is that it’s not just a one-day deal either, the ticket includes access to the talks afterwards and a year-round community with extra events, so it actually keeps the momentum going. And Clare Balding is headlining, I love her!
And because we love a good day out… they’re doing a Pre-Party and an After Party too…sounds like our vibe!
There’s a 5-a-side ticket (£799 5 places for the price of 4), PLUS Impact Players gift an extra ticket to a grassroots woman leader, which is amazing!
Individual early birds are £199.
What if we did this for a joint Christmas pressie, it just feels like one of those things that could be really special to do together and genuinely benefit all of us.
What do you think?
Here’s the link: https://impact.rebootandreturn.com/
How to ask Santa for a ticket to Impact Players
🎁 Option 1
Hi Santa / love of my life / designated gift-buyer,
I’ve solved Christmas for you.
If you want to back me, my career, and the bigger moves I’m ready to make…
get me a ticket to Impact Players 2026.
It’s the thing that will genuinely lift me, push me, and put me in rooms where I grow.
And I know you love to support me, and this is the perfect way!
Early bird is £199.
Here’s the link: https://impact.rebootandreturn.com/
I’ll act surprised.
And if you wanted to make it even better, get yourself a ticket and we can have an epic day together!
#ImpactPlayers26 🎁
🎁 Option 2
Hi Santa (aka you),
If you’re wondering what would make me feel supported, seen, and set up for a brilliant year, it’s a ticket to Impact Players 2026.
It’s the biggest thing I can do for my career next year…
and the best way you can back me.
Early bird is £199.
Link: https://impact.rebootandreturn.com/
Thank you in advance for being wonderful.
🎁✨
🎁 Option 3
Hi Santa / darling / personal cheerleader,
You know how you always glaze over when I talk about work – well I’ve found an answer! There’s an epic group of people and a conference that can lift the load and offer me the support you can’t quite muster 😜
Please buy me a ticket to Impact Players 2026.
It’ll do far more for me than anything you could wrap; career-wise, confidence-wise, life-wise. Plus it will save you hours of earache.
Early bird £199.
Link: https://impact.rebootandreturn.com/
You’re welcome. It’s essentially more of a gift for you than me – no brainer.
How to get your boss to buy you a ticket to Impact Players
Subject: Leadership development that will genuinely move the dial
Hi [Manager],
I’d love your support to attend Impact Players 2026, a one-day leadership experience that blends business and elite sport to show women how to think, act, and lead in business using the sporting competitive mindset.
The mission: support more women into decision-making roles by giving them the mindset, confidence, and strategic clarity elite performers use every day.
Attendees this year described it as (select the ones you want):
Lakshmi Vishwanath
“I’m not going to be the same person after this.”
Victoria Sloan, DailyPay
“We walked away clear on one thing… own who you are fully and without hesitation.”
Nadine C.
“No room for small talk, only BIG talk.”
Archita Fritz (Keynote speaker)
“It was the best conference I’ve ever attended.”
Sorcha Mac Laimhin
“I have learned so much about myself today and I feel ready to level up.”
Nadine C.
“Be prepared for FOMO if you don’t get a ticket.”
People have already stepped into bigger roles, improved performance, reconnected with sport and wellbeing, and taken bolder action at work.
Here’s why it’s a strong investment for us:
- High-quality leadership learning from Olympians, CEOs, sports psychologists, and senior operators with practical insights immediately transferable to our environment. Clare Balding is headlining this year, with Rachel Furness, Michelle Thompson, and many more!
- Ongoing development all year.
The ticket includes full access to the recording library with keynotes from 2025 and 2026, available any time, plus entry into the Impact Players online community with online and in person events and continued learning.
- Genuinely aligned with DEI.
It creates a space where diverse women and male allies come together to widen the leadership pipeline and support future talent.
- Strong value for teams.
The 5-a-side ticket (£799) gives 5 places for the price of 4, and Impact Players gift a ticket to a grassroots woman leader, a positive social impact element.
Early bird tickets are £199.
If you’re open to it, I’d love to attend and even get a small group of us to go together and get the 5-a-side. I hear they also have packages with follow-up leadership development if we wanted something even more impactful.
Here’s the Link: https://impact.rebootandreturn.com/
Thanks,
[Name]
This looks awesome, but what will I learn?
Our philosophy is simple: learning happens best when you’re engaged and energized, not struggling to stay awake! This event promises to be both exciting and impactful. We’ve carefully selected incredible speakers who bring a perfect mix of expertise and enthusiasm. Every session is designed to deliver maximum value, packed with actionable insights you can apply right away. Get ready for a dynamic experience where inspiration meets practical takeaways.
Who is IMPACT PLAYERS for?
Impact Players is designed for ambitious women, male allies and non-binary individuals looking to channel the competitive spirit of sports into advancing their careers. Whether you’re from the business world or the sports arena, this event will connect you with inspiring leaders and provide you with the tools, strategies, and mindset needed to elevate your leadership, drive change, and amplify your impact.
What is the refund policy?
If for whatever reason you can't make IMPACT PLAYERS after you purchase your ticket, you have a couple of options:
1. Ask for a no-questions-asked refund up until February 1st 2026. After this date, you have the following options:
2. Sell or gift your ticket to somebody else and request a free-of-charge name change.
Will I have access to the speakers?
Many of the speakers will be present throughout the event and at the social gatherings. It’s your chance to engage, connect, and leave such an impression that they head home completely exhausted—but in the best way possible!
What level is the content?
At Impact Players, we challenge our speakers to deliver advanced insights, actionable strategies, and practical advice tailored to help you elevate your career or organization. This isn’t a fundamentals conference, nor is it filled with empty inspiration. Instead, you’ll leave feeling motivated with real tools and strategies you can implement as soon as you’re back in action.
Whether you’re just starting out or already established, Impact Players is designed to accelerate your growth. You’ll gain cutting-edge ideas, forge meaningful connections, and leave with the energy and confidence to drive your success to the next level.
Is the venue accessible?
ICC Belfast prioritizes accessibility with features like Changing Places toilets, wheelchair spaces, lift access, assistance dog accommodations, improved signposting, and JAM card-trained staff. The venue also provides a Social Narrative Accessibility Video to help visitors navigate and offers a Changing Places facility with equipment like hoists and adult-sized changing benches in the Riverside Foyer.
What if the event is cancelled?
We’re confident that IMPACT PLAYERS will go ahead. However, be assured that if we have to cancel IMPACT PLAYERS at any point, then you’ll receive a full refund.
How do I pay by invoice?
If you would like to invoice for tickets through your company please email [email protected]
Have more questions? Email us at [email protected]
If you are interested in bulk buying tickets by invoice, Email [email protected]