Magherafelt capture Cúchulainn Cup
The annual Ulster GAA Cúchulainn Cup took place at the Meadowbank Sports Arena last week.
The Cúchulainn Cup aims to afford young people from different backgrounds the opportunity to engage with one another, and to educate people not traditionally involved with the GAA more about the Association. Taking part were Magherafelt Cúchulainns, Banbridge Cúchulainns and Ballymena Cúchulainns. Teams comprised of several schools from a town coming together to play Gaelic games in a cross-community team.
In preparation for the Cúchulainn Cup Blitz schools were given ‘GAA Taster Sessions’ in which pupils who had never played Gaelic games, or had very little interaction in the games were taught the basic skills of Gaelic Football and Hurling. Taster sessions were provided in eight schools with over 150 pupils getting an opportunity to sample what the GAA has to offer.
In addition ‘Getting to Know the GAA’ presentations were delivered to over 120 pupils which helped to promote greater understanding and respect for other cultures; a key aim of the Cúchulainn Cup programme.
After a very enjoyable day of Hurling and Gaelic football, a strong Magherafelt Cúchulainns team ran out convincing winners. Ulster President Michael Hasson praised the schools and teachers for their enthusiasm in becoming involved, and thanked the players for the great spirit in which the games were played. Michael urged players to get involved in sport whether through playing or volunteering, stressing that Ulster GAA can support players in being linked with their local GAA club. “The Cúchulainn Cup continues to be a very worthwhile project, as evidenced by the many happy faces, skill, and great interaction between teams today.”
The Cúchulainn Cup takes place in spring-time each year, with schools selected by Ulster GAA to take part. For more information contact Maura Kelly: maura.kelly.ulster@gaa.ie
Photo caption: Players from Rainey Endowed College, St Marys Grammar School, and St Pius X College join together to celebrate Magherafelt Cúchulainn’s victory in the Cúchulainn Cup Blitz 2016.
