The Gaelic Glaswegians

Two weeks ago, thirty children from two Glasgow schools visited Croghan for
the weekend as part of a Youth Exchange Programme, effectively integrating them into the local sporting community. This event was organised by Tommy Main from Tir Chonaill Harps, Glasgow along with Chris O' Dowd, Shannon Gaels and its objective was to break down religious and cultural barriers.

All the children were given a tremendous chance to see for themselves how gaelic games are run, with a range of coaches on hand to teach them basic skills. It was a very successful event, and a credit to those who helped in any way over the course of the few days.

The visiting children, along with their mentors arrived in Croghan on the Saturday evening to be greeted with a reception. After this they undertook some coaching followed by an introduction to GoGames which is the format for U10 and U8 Gaelic Games. The coaches on hand were superb, they went to tremendous effort to inform and educate the kids on how both Gaelic football and hurling is played.

Prionsias Killian from the Knockcroghery County Board AND ——- held coaching sessions in the park. There are pictures up on the website from the coaching sessions. A special word of thanks to Tina McLoughlin, who held a workshop with the children based on integration of their two different backgrounds, both culturally and religiously. On the Sunday, the children were given the chance to sample for themselves the electric atmosphere at a Gaelic Games Championship match—as they were brought to Salthill to witness the Rossies take on the might of Galway. Unfortunately the match didn't go to plan, but it was a great experience for them.
It was a worthwhile weekend and a lot of background work went into its organising.
Thanks to all who helped make it a success.