GAA

The establishment of the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1884 led to the organisation of G.A.A games for the first time in Ireland. These games are traditional Irish games which were organised for the first time in 1884. They include Gaelic football, hurling and handball.

Gaelic football has been described as a hybrid of soccer and rugby, its played with a round ball and involves two 15-strong teams whose members may handle the ball. Each county in the four provinces fields a team in the Championship which is organised every year by the G.A.A.

Hurling is even older than Gaelic football. Its the national game of Ireland which has been mentioned in early Irish legends. Its a game of speed, skill and has been aptly described as 'poetry in motion'. Played between teams of 15 men it is said to be the world's fastest field game. The players belt a small leather ball with hockey type sticks. The ball can be caught with the hurley or with the hand.

Camogie is a female version of hurling. Its as fast, skilful and played with equal determination by Irishwomen.

The All-Ireland finals of the Gaelic Games inter-county championships are played in September in Croke Park, Dublin. They are great occasions of colour and excitement. Among the most striking aspects are the fervour and passion of the players and the loyalty of the fans to their particular team.

As in every other county Galway participates in the inter-county championship and league every year. A county team is chosen from the players who play with their local club. Its a great honour to be chosen. Players train almost as hard as professionals but its strictly an amateur game.

Galway has a long tradition of success in the football and hurling championships. The training of young players is a feature of the GAA. In view of this it should be noted that a series of summer camps in Gaelic football, hurling and camogie were organised by the Galway Coaching and Games Development Committee during the summer of 1995.

Epert coaching in the GAA games was provided in a relaxed and friendly environment.Those interested in such camps for next summer should contact the Galway County Board in Dominick Street.

Advertisements