About Kickstart Movements
Founded in 2017 by former Dublin footballers Micheál McCarthy and William Lowry, Kick Start Movements was created with a simple goal — to help children build confidence, develop healthy habits & enjoy physical activity from an early age.
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Combining their backgrounds in education, nutrition & sport, Micheál and William designed a programme that teaches movement, social skills & nutrition in a fun, engaging and supportive environment for children aged 3 to 7. Their vision was to create more than just a sports programme, but a positive foundation that helps children grow physically, socially & emotionally during key developmental years.
With support and guidance from Professor Niall Moyna (Operation Transformation, Doctor in the House) and the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), Kick Start Movements has grown into a trusted programme for parents, schools & childcare providers across Dublin.
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Both co-founders hold a Level 8 BA in Education & Training from DCU and carried out extensive research before launching the programme, ensuring every session is designed to support real-life child development in a safe, structured & enjoyable way.
Founded in 2017 by former Dublin footballers Micheál McCarthy and William Lowry, Kick Start Movements was created with a simple goal — to help children build confidence, develop healthy habits & enjoy physical activity from an early age.
Combining their backgrounds in education, nutrition & sport, Micheál and William designed a programme that teaches movement, social skills & nutrition in a fun, engaging and supportive environment for children aged 3 to 7. Their vision was to create more than just a sports programme, but a positive foundation that helps children grow physically, socially & emotionally during key developmental years.
With support and guidance from Professor Niall Moyna (Operation Transformation, Doctor in the House) and the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), Kick Start Movements has grown into a trusted programme for parents, schools & childcare providers across Dublin.
Both co-founders hold a Level 8 BA in Education & Training from DCU and carried out extensive research before launching the programme, ensuring every session is designed to support real-life child development in a safe, structured & enjoyable way.
William Lowry
Co-Founder
William is also a dynamic Co-Founder of Kick Start Movements and has played a huge role in building the organisation into the thriving movement it is today. With a passion for empowering young people through education, sport, and wellbeing, William brings incredible energy, leadership, and positivity to KSM every single day.
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William studied Sports and Leisure Management in Coláiste Íde before going on to complete a Level 8 BA degree in Education and Training, along with a Level 8 qualification in Child Nutrition — combining his passion for learning, health, fitness, and youth development.
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A highly accomplished athlete, William proudly represented Dublin in both football and hurling, captaining the Dublin Minor Hurlers in 2004 and the Dublin U21 Hurlers in 2006, before going on to celebrate All-Ireland club success with St Vincent’s in 2008. His dedication, leadership, teamwork, and winning mentality continue to inspire the KSM community and help drive the organisation forward every day.
Micheál McCarthy
Co-Founder
Micheál is one of the Co-Founders of Kick Start Movements, a company he has passionately helped build and lead for the past 10 years. Since co-founding KSM in 2017, Micheál has played a key role in inspiring and empowering young people through movement, education, and leadership.
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Prior to launching KSM, Micheál attended Dublin City University (DCU) from 2012 to 2016, where he earned a Level 8 BA degree in Education and Training.
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Micheál also holds qualifications as a VETAC Level 8 Gym Fitness Instructor and a Level 8 qualification in Child Nutrition, combining his passion for health, fitness, and youth development.
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A proud and accomplished sportsman, Micheál was part of the Dublin Senior Football Team that captured the All-Ireland title in 2011 — an achievement that reflects the dedication, teamwork, and drive he continues to bring to KSM every day.
Kate Sullivan
Head Coach
Kate joined Kick Start Movements in 2021 and has become a hugely influential part of the organisation, bringing incredible energy, leadership, and passion to the KSM team. Through her dedication to youth development, sport, and creating positive experiences for young people,
Kate has made a massive impact both on and off the pitch. She has now also come on board as a Director of KSM, helping to drive the organisation forward into an exciting new chapter.
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Prior to joining KSM, Kate completed her studies, attaining Level 7 qualifications in Business Studies and Pharmacy Technician.
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An exceptional athlete, Kate has been a key member of the Dublin Senior Ladies Football Team since 2019 and has already achieved remarkable success, winning an incredible five All-Ireland titles to date. In 2025, she earned her first All Star award — a huge achievement and recognition of her outstanding performances and dedication at the highest level of the game. She also captured an All-Ireland Intermediate Championship title with her club St. Sylvester’s, Malahide.
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Kate has successfully led and delivered numerous GAA training camps across the greater Dublin area, working with a wide variety of age groups and abilities. Her enthusiasm, experience, and winning mentality continue to inspire everyone involved in KSM and make her an invaluable leader within the organisation.
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