Ulster GAA Players’ Academy 2016

The Ulster University at Jordanstown played host to 98 young Gaelic players from across Ulster who attended this year’s Ulster GAA Players’ Academy, with high hopes of making a name for themselves playing for their county in years to come.

The players all under 16 years, follow in the footsteps of some of Ulster’s finest players including Donegal’s Michael Murphy, Monaghan’s Kieran Hughes, Antrim’s Neal McManus and Down’s Danny Toner in being selected to participate in the prestigious Player Academy at such a young age.

During the two-day Academy the players received coaching from some of Ulster’s top GAA coaches as well as sessions on nutrition, health & wellbeing and injury & recovery. There is no doubt that the players leave the camp inspired and determined to work hard towards their future Gaelic careers.

Ulster GAA President, Michael Hasson, welcomed the initiative and commented “When the best talented young players in both Gaelic Football and Hurling come together for this academy I am filled with hope and enthusiasm for Gaelic Games in Ulster. In a few years, these players will be pulling on their county jerseys and playing at the highest levels. The 2016 Ulster GAA Player Academy aims to prepare young players for the hard work and commitment it takes to be the best in Ulster.

A number of high profile guests visited the camp to share their experiences with the players and also to inspire them for the future. The footballers met with current Tyrone star Mattie Donnelly, while the hurlers enjoyed an informative talk from current Antrim hurling star Simon McCrory. Both our guests took time out of their busy schedules where they are preparing for their county’s upcoming Ulster Finals.

The Player Academy is in its 14th year and we are delighted to have provided support to many fine players who have gone on to play at the highest level of their sport. Some of the sessions delivered included:

• Sports Science/Video Analysis – Kevin McGuigan
• Functional Warm Up/Tackling – Peter Donnelly
• Skill Development – Ulster GAA Coaching staff
• Nutrition & hydration – Gregory McGovern
• Player Welfare/Anti Doping – Ryan Mellon
• Recovery/Foam Rollers – Gareth O’Neill

Following the camp the footballers will play a representative game against Dublin and the hurlers will travel to the Connacht Centre of Excellence where they will play two games against Galway and a Connacht select team.