Gaa

The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) is Ireland’s foremost sporting organization, founded on November 1, 1884, in Thurles, Tipperary, by a group of passionate individuals dedicated to promoting traditional Irish sports. The GAA is an amateur association, meaning its players do not receive payment, reflecting a strong volunteer ethos integral to its identity. It focuses on fostering community through Gaelic games such as Hurling, Gaelic Football, Handball, and Rounders, while also supporting Ladies Football and Camogie.

With over 2,200 clubs across Ireland's 32 counties, the GAA plays a vital role in Irish society, merging sporting events with cultural initiatives, including music, dance, and the Irish language. Each summer, the inter-county All-Ireland Championships attract around 1.5 million attendees, culminating in the highly anticipated finals at Croke Park. The association also has a global presence, with clubs established among the Irish diaspora in countries like the USA, Australia, and Canada, ensuring that Irish culture and sport flourish worldwide.