GAA announce first National Inclusive Fitness Day

On the 23^rd of September, the GAA invites all clubs to open their doors to the wider community and support its first GAA National Inclusive Fitness Day. The event falls during the European Week of Sport (23^rd – 30^th September) and aims to promote sport and physical activity to everyone regardless of age, ability, ethnicity, nationality, or fitness level.

Inclusion means people having a sense of belonging, of being comfortable in being part of something they value. Diversity means being aware of, accommodating, and celebrating difference. GAA Diversity and Inclusion officer Ger McTavish explains:

“Inclusion is about making a difference. Inclusivity is a movement, a move to include. Being truly inclusive is living our GAA motto, ‘Where we all Belong’. This work takes many forms. It ranges from ensuring that our policies and practices support the cultural integration and social inclusion of people from across Ireland’s diverse ethnic population, to making sure that all Gaelic games are adapted for people with different abilities.”

A simple 6 Steps process, including access to all necessary resources, has been developed for clubs interested in participating in the GAA’s National Inclusive Fitness Day, a process that will also support their journey in becoming a more inclusive club.

1. Your club must register online by September 9^th (Go to: www.gaa.ie/nationalinclusionday to register)
2. Sign up to CARA Sport Inclusion Disability Charter
3. Share the GAA inclusive club resources in your club
4. Hold an inclusive fitness activity at your GAA Club on September 23^rd
5. Share a video or pictures of your activity on social using #GAABelong

6: Receive an Inclusive GAA Club certificate to proudly display in your club.

 The Minister of State for Disability, Anne Rabbitte, Member of the European Parliament, Maria Walsh and GAA Ambassador Boidu Sayeh, Westmeath footballer and Zak Moradi, Leitrim Hurler, will be amongst the speakers at the official launch of the GAA National Inclusion Fitness Day in Croke Park on Tuesday August 4^th, at 11.00.