On Friday 10th April, 190 children took to the hallowed turf of Croke Park for the annual Ulster GAA Activity Day.
The children enjoyed a fantastic experience, making full use of the stadium’s facilities — including changing in the Cusack Stand dressing rooms and warm-up areas — before getting the opportunity to play on pitch.
A total of six football clubs and one combined hurling group were represented on the day. The participating football clubs — Burt, Naomh Micheál, Pettigo, Red Hughs, Gaoth Dobhair and Naomh Conaill — took part in a blitz format, with each club playing four games.
The hurling players from Carndonagh, Buncrana, Burt, St. Eunans, Gaeil Leitir Ceanainn, Sean MacCumhaills, and Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon were split into evenly matched teams, ensuring all players received plenty of game-time.
With access to the pitch from 2:45pm to 4:15pm, both football and hurling matches were played in great spirit. The players showcased excellent skill, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship — qualities we hope to see again in the future as they progress to represent Donegal in Croke Park.
Donegal GAA Coaching & Games would like to extend sincere thanks to Ulster GAA Coaching & Games staff, particularly Declan Sherlock, Michael Glover, and Tony Scullion, for their support on the day.
A special word of thanks to the Hurling Board , for their work in organising the hurling participants in advance, and on the day itself.
We also acknowledge the Go Games referees who officiated throughout the day: Aiden Mc Aleer, Fionn Mc Aleer, Daniel Walker, Anton Doherty, Shay Sweeney, Aaron McGinley, and Darragh Kennedy.
Thanks to Donegal GAA staff Paddy Hegarty, John Ward, Brian Roper, and Martin Mc Grath for coordinating the event.
Finally, a huge thank you to all club mentors for their preparation leading into the trip and for their continued support and cooperation throughout the day.
A brilliant day was had by all — and we’re already looking forward to next year!
By Sinéad Breen Communications Officer Mon 13th Apr
