Grit, glory and national pride: GAA remains one of our most thrilling traditions to watch.
Hurling, that uniquely Irish sport, may not be ‘the fastest game in the world’ as Stephen Rea’s character in Neil Jordan’s film The Crying Game claims (according to the GAA it’s ‘the fastest field sport in the world’), but it’s certainly one of the oldest.
It’s older than the recorded history of Ireland – people have been playing hurling on this island for over 2,000 years, and Gaelic football for over 700 years.
There’s nothing like the atmosphere of an All-Ireland in Croke Park – the flags, the jerseys, the banter, the tension, the excitement: it’s a day for all the family.
Start by following the fortunes of your local team in local clubs, or include the GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium tour in a day trip to get a sense of the history of Ireland’s national sports.
Want to play yourself? The GAA is one of Ireland’s most dynamic grassroots associations – there are about 3,000 clubs, north and south – so finding one is never hard.
Visit the GAA website to hook up to your closest club or to check out GAA fixtures. You can get a taster with Experience Gaelic Games, a fun activity ideal for friends and families.
The world of Irish sport is just a click away.