The survey into the social aspects of sport in Ireland carried out by the ERSI indicates that men are more likely than women to become volunteers in sport and that men are more likely to be involved in core roles such as coaching, mentoring, organising activities and acting as club officials.

The study found that 18 per cent of men compared to 12 per cent of women take up such roles.

Both sexes believe that making acquaintances is an important aspect of taking part in sport, although, more men believed this than women. Sixty per cent of males compared to 51 per cent of women considered making new friends was a motivating factor.

Overall, among all Irish adults the report shows 30 per cent are members of sports clubs with men making up 40 per cent of that total and women 30 per cent.

The typical annual membership subscription also varied with sports and ranged from €20-€30 in the case of GAA and soccer clubs to €400-€450 in the case of aerobic/fitness clubs and golf clubs.

In addition, the volunteer rates also vary according to socio-economic position. Professionals are about twice as likely to volunteer as semi-skilled or unskilled workers and those who have employment are more than three times more likely to volunteer for sports activities than the unemployed.

While some sports' volunteers are also players, the majority of volunteers are non-players or former players. This is reflected in the age profile of volunteers, who are generally older than those participating.

The age group between 40-49 years has the highest rate of volunteering.

Attendance at events in Ireland also had quite a high strike rate with 46 per cent of the adult population attending domestic sports event in the 12 months and six per cent travelling to a sports event outside Ireland.