Young Leaders preparing for a future in the GAA

Thirty-one Young Leaders from across Ulster’s nine counties are spending their summer developing their skills and knowledge to help them become future volunteer leaders in their GAA clubs and counties.

Through the prestigious Ulster GAA’s Young Leaders Programme, the young people have completed an intensive three-day academy at the Athletic Grounds and Armagh Harps; completing their Introduction to Coaching Gaelic Games, GAA Safeguarding Award, GAA for all Training, Never Cross the Line #GetConsent workshop, One Punch Seminar, and various fun coaching and participation opportunities.

Ulster GAA wheelchair hurler Paul Hannon was the inspirational special guest at the Academy, encouraging the young Gaels to strive for greatness no matter what challenges they face.

The Young Leaders will also complete a number of online workshops in August including sports nutrition, sports science and sports communication. All with the aim of developing future volunteers for GAA clubs and counties.

Building resilience and teamwork skills is also a key component of the programme and just this week, the young participants completed a challenging two day, one night hiking and camping expedition in the Mournes. Working together to navigate and set up camp together, their resilience and communications skills were put to the test. This element of the programme means they will also achieve the Bronze Joint Award (Gaisce – the President’s Award or Duke of Edinburgh Award).

Ulster GAA’s Young Leaders Programme is a six-month commitment requiring the young people to be physically active through Gaelic Games and also to volunteer within their clubs for 12 weeks.

By the end of the programme the participants will also be awarded with Sports Inspire 50 award for their commitment to volunteering and developing their skills.

Ulster GAA congratulates all the young participants and we wish them well for the rest of the programme.

2024 Young Leaders