Keane to take up Cricket Ireland role following conclusion of Swim Ireland tenure

Keane's departure marks the end of an extraordinary 21-year period of leadership that has seen Swim Ireland undergo unprecedented growth, transformation, and success

Sarah Keane. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Swim Ireland CEO Sarah Keane will step down from her role in February 2026 to take up the position of CEO at Cricket Ireland. 

Keane will officially commence her Ciecket Ireland role as CEO in March 2026.

Keane's departure from Swim Ireland marks the end of an extraordinary 21-year period of leadership that has seen it undergo unprecedented growth, transformation, and success

Under Keane’s visionary leadership since 2004, the organisation has been "fundamentally reshaped, establishing itself as a leading national governing body in Irish sport". 

A statement announcing Keane will be stepping down read: "Her tenure has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, immense drive and a real passion for governance every step of the way. This has led to many successes for Swim Ireland and culminated in a record-breaking era for Irish aquatics." 

The above includes an impressive haul of European, World, and Olympic medals, most notably the historic Olympic medals won by Daniel Wiffen and Mona McSharry at the Paris 2024 Games.

Beyond elite performance, Keane oversaw the launch by the Government of the first-ever National Swimming Strategy last year with a particular focus on infrastructure, outdoor and indoor swimming.

Keane continues to represent Irish Aquatics at international level by her successful election to both the boards of European and World Aquatics, as well as her role as president of the Olympic Federation of Ireland.

"Leading Swim Ireland for the past 21 years has been an absolute dream come true," Keane said. "It has been an immense privilege to work alongside such excellent board members, dedicated and extremely talented staff, coaches, athletes, and volunteers who share a passion and ambition for Irish aquatics. 

"I have had so many incredible experiences and learnings as together we have sought to face the challenges and grow the sport and the organisation to enable enhanced grassroots participation, great clubs with our athletes achieving historic feats like Daniel Wiffen's Olympic gold in Paris. 

"It is up to us as sports administrators to build an organisation and system to support others to thrive and the wider professionalism of the organisation has been a massive highlight of my professional life. 

"I am committed to continuing to complete certain important matters within Swim Ireland including the appointment of the next National Performance Director for the organisation and to support the Board and the staff in the transition. 

"I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I leave with the deepest gratitude for the support and commitment of everyone in the Swim Ireland community. 

"I am also incredibly grateful for the support of the Government, Department, Sport Ireland, Sport NI, the Olympic Federation of Ireland, Paralympics Ireland and many others in Irish sport who have helped Swim Ireland and me personally on this journey so far."

Keane concluded: "I am fully confident that the organisation and the people in it are in a strong position for upward continued success."