History Makers Deserve the Best Care Takers: Mater Private Network Announces Sponsorship of Five Elite Female Athletes

Mater Private Network is excited to announce its sponsorship of five exceptional female athletes across a range of sports, as part of its commitment to the pursuit of excellence.  

These remarkable athletes are Sarah Lavin, Ireland’s fastest woman and a champion high hurdler; Eve McMahon, two-time U21 World Champion sailor and Ireland's youngest-ever Olympic sailor; Lara Gillespie, an accomplished racing cyclist and multiple gold and silver medallist in European youth championships; Ellen Walshe, a leading Irish record-breaking swimmer; and Nicola Tuthill, a rising young talent in hammer throwing who reached professional standard in just five years.

Mater Private Network is committed to amplifying female athletes' voices, increasing visibility, and fostering a legacy of excellence in sport. This sponsorship will provide opportunities for these athletes to support their professional careers; this is central to the partnership, as Mater Private Network recognises the value in successful female sportspeople as role models for young girls. 

Commenting on the sponsorship, John Hurley, Group Chief Executive, Mater Private Network, said: “We are privileged to support these five outstanding female athletes. At Mater Private Network, we believe in the values of courage, respect, and excellence which are qualities that these women demonstrate in every aspect of their athletic careers. This partnership not only reinforces our commitment to health and well-being but also highlights our dedication to empowering women in all professions, including sports, and helping them achieve their goals.”

Reflecting on the impact of the sponsorship, Sarah Lavin said: “As a qualified healthcare professional, there is nobody I would trust more to look after my own medical needs. Their dedication to innovation and excellence mirrors my own drive to push boundaries in my personal career and sport. With their support, I can focus on optimising my training and preparing for the World Championships in Tokyo.”

Commenting on the benefits Eve MacMahon said: "Competing at the highest level requires unwavering commitment and the right backing. Mater Private Network’s support will fuel my pursuit of excellence, helping me to train, compete, and strive for the podium. Sailing is won in the details — every resource, every opportunity counts. Partnering with the four other women is nothing short of inspiring for a young athlete like me, and it is such an honour to be positioned alongside them.” 

For Nicola Tuthill, the sponsorship provides invaluable support in balancing her dual commitments. She explained: “The support from Mater Private Network will make my life as a full-time college student and full-time athlete much more manageable. It will also allow me to travel to train and compete both abroad and in Ireland along with availing of best in class coaching and investing in my training equipment to allow for more efficient training. Having access to Mater Private facility in my home county of Cork, has reassured me that I have access to the finest healthcare in Ireland, for all medical needs.” 

This sponsorship from Mater Private Network will provide critical funding for coaching, competition travel, training camps, and performance gear, helping these athletes reach their full potential on the global stage. Top class training and preparation needs to be matched with top class care, and Mater Private Network will also be there to support with their healthcare needs.