Green is perhaps best-known for founding Cerebral Palsy Sport Ireland in 1978 as there was previously no group providing sport specifically for people with the condition.

She became the organisation's first chairperson and was also responsible for introducing the Paralympic sports of football seven-a-side in 1980 and boccia in 1986 to Ireland - disciplines which proved richly successful for many years at the Paralympic Games.

She has also led numerous Irish teams over the course of her career and was an official on the Irish Paralympic team at four Paralympic Games, most recently at London 2012.

Green also became heavily involved in classification of cerebral palsy athletes at the Paralympics and was an official classifier at Barcelona 1992.

Green has been involved with Paralympics Ireland since its inception as a coordinating body in 1987 and has held many roles within the organisation, including that of honorary secretary for the last eight years.


"It's hard to believe I've been involved for 35 years, but the time is right to stand aside," said Green, who announced the decision at the recent Paralympics Ireland Annual General Meeting.

"To see how much disability sport has progressed in the 35 years is truly incredible and to witness first-hand the incredible success of Ireland's athletes at London 2012 is a memory I'll cherish forever.

"I'd like to thank all the athletes and the many people who volunteered their help to ensure we are in our current strong position and to also thank them for their friendship over the years."

Paralympics Ireland President James Gradwell led the tributes to Green as the members made a special presentation to her following the announcement at the Annual General Meeting.

"Brenda Green has been a stalwart for the development and growth of Paralympic sport in Ireland for many years," said Gradwell.

"Her commitment and determination have been unwavering throughout and her legacy as a visionary for disability sport in Ireland is assured.

"On behalf of the Irish Paralympic family, we thank her and wish her all the very best for the future."

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