New to the Sport
What is Gaelic Football & Hurling?
Gaelic Football & Hurling are traditional Irish field sports and two of the five Gaelic games promoted by Ireland’s Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).
Both games are gaining more and more popularity in the U.S. due to its fast pace, high skill and its all action features. The advent of online video has also helped to capture the imagination of American audiences. To see the game of Gaelic Football in action, please click Gaelic Football – The Original Beautiful Game
Who can play?
Anyone over the age of 16 is most welcome. There is no experience required to play any Gaelic sport. Our club has experienced members that are more than happy to coach you the basics of the game.
How big is a Gaelic Football/Hurling field?
A traditional Gaelic Football field is usually 145 meters (158.57 yards) long by 90 meters (98.43 yards) wide. However, as there are not many GAA fields the US we usually play on a full size soccer or rugby field instead.
How many players on a Gaelic Football/Hurling team?
A traditional Gaelic Football/Hurling team would have 15 players but as we play on smaller soccer or rugby pitches here in the US we play with only 13 players.
What do I need to play?
Just bring some athletic gear (shirt, shorts, socks and cleats/athletic shoes) The club will provide you with Gaelic Footballs and/or a Hurleys & a helmet to get you started.
If you choose Gaelic Football no further equipment is needed. However if you are more passionate about Hurling then you will have to purchase a helmet. The hurleys will be provided by the club, although you can purchase your own hurley as well.
Do you play in any competitions?
The club participates in the South East Division of North American County Board of the Gaelic Athletic Association. and we play games approximately once a month between May & September with the pinnacle of our season being the North American County Board (NACB) championship held over Labor Day weekend every year. See our calendar for more details details.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely. If you think someone else may be interested in giving it a try. Then bring them along too. It is how most people got started.
How expensive is it or how safe is it?
Gaelic Football & Hurling are not expensive sports to play and are not dangerous. We’ll show you the correct techniques to ensure your safety on the field. We’ll provide the initial equipment to give it a try, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money when getting started.
Where do I sign up?
You can fill in the ‘Mailing list sign up!’ form on the home page to receive emails on events, training and general club updates or you can contact us using our contact form also. To find information on when and where we training please visit our Training page. You can also join our facebook page for all the latest GAA news!
What are the Rules of Gaelic sports like Gaelic Football, Hurling & Camogie?
Like any organized sport there are rules and regulations that must be following and obeyed. These rules are in place to provide player safety and fairness for everyone who plays the sports. You can read more about these rules here.