Over 140 young people from GAA clubs across Ulster have been embarking on the Joint Award Initiative in 2025, completing their volunteering, physical activity and skills development in their own GAA club.
The young participants are due to complete their bronze programmes later this month and will select either Gaisce – the President’s Award or Duke of Edinburgh Award.
This week, we spotlight the physical activity element of the programme, where participants can count six months of training/playing Gaelic Games towards their final award. Michéal Mulholland from St Mary’s GAC Aghagallon chose Gaelic Football for his Physical Section.
“I played Gaelic football for U16s and Minors for Aghagallon,” said Michael. “Over a period of six months I completed weekly training sessions, matches, and strength and conditioning sessions.
“I captain my U16 team and it was a good fit to meet the requirements of the physical activity element of the Joint Award. I chose to do this section over six months as its fitted well with our season and takes up most of my free time as my favourite sport. I ended up completing four times the amount of time required for this section, but it never felt like a chore as playing Gaelic football is what I love.
“Captaining my team was a huge honour and helped me develop my leadership skills and build my own self confidence. Through the season I feel I improved my skills and fitness levels which was a key goal of the physical activity section. Being able to make the right decisions under match pressure was a huge achievement for me. I thoroughly enjoyed this past 6 months playing with my team and have every intention of continuing with this physical activity long after I have completed my bronze award.”
Registration for the 2026 Joint Award Initiative will open in the new year, any club interested in getting involved, contact sharon.haughey.ulster@gaa.ie for more information.
By Michael Devlin Tue 14th Oct
