Ulster GAA preparing for action-packed Young Leaders Programme

Ulster GAA is delighted to announce plans for its 2023 Young Leaders Programme, with applications NOW OPEN until 10am Thursday 22nd June for young GAA members aged 16-24 years old from clubs across Ulster.

Ulster GAA Young Leaders Programme has become a prestigious award for young people providing them with essential coaching and safeguarding awards while exploring key issues relating to sport.  The programme has now developed into a six-month programme and is a substantial commitment by the young people who are going back into their clubs and making important contributions to the GAA and their communities.

This year the programme has been designed to keep the young people entertained with plenty of activity mixed with theory learning.  They are also encouraged to learn from each other and fully participate in all activities which helps the young people get to know each other and build a team ethos.  Many of previous young leaders continue to be involved in Ulster GAA programmes from their involvement in Young Leaders.

Details for the 2023 Programme are as follows:

• Three Day Young Leaders Academy: Tuesday 4^th, Wednesday 5^th and Thursday 6^th July in Armagh 9am-3:30pm.
• 4 Online Workshops: Throughout July and August focussing on key issues relating to sport including: Event management and leadership; Sports Communication, Sports Science and Nutrition and Lifestyle.
• 2 Day, 1 night Hiking and Camping Expedition: Thursday 20^th and Friday 21^st July at Meelmore Lodge, Co Down.
• 12 weeks volunteering: All participants are expected to commit to 12 weeks volunteering at their local GAA club.
• 24 weeks physical activity: All participants are expected to commit to 24 weeks of physical activity, most likely training/playing Gaelic games at their club/county. Personal fitness or recovery can also be counted for this for any non-players.

On completion of the programme (expected October/November) the participants will have achieved:

• Ulster GAA Foundation Coaching Award
• Ulster GAA Safeguarding Award
• Sports Inspire 50 Award
• Volunteer Now’s Youth Impact 50 Award
• Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award or Gaisce – The President’s Award Bronze

All participants will receive a FREE specially commissioned Ulster GAA Young Leaders 2023 Jersey and are asked to bring packed lunch, snacks and drinks to each session.  All Participants will be charged £24 to participate in the programme this covers the cost for the Joint Award Initiative (Dofe/Gaisce) registration fees.  In addition to this the following charges will apply:

• Those participating in the expedition with camping: £64 (£88 in total)
• Those participating in the expedition without camping £20 (£44 in total)

Parental/Guardian consent is required for all participants aged under 18 and all participants will be expected to sign up to GAA code of conduct.

For full information including full schedule and application visit: www.ulster.gaa.ie/youngleaders