The GAA Club Summit took place today in Croke Park, bringing together club volunteers from across the Association for a comprehensive and informative event focused on supporting those who are the lifeblood of Gaelic games.

Designed to equip club members and volunteers with the knowledge, tools and supports needed to run their clubs efficiently and sustainably, the summit featured a wide range of exhibition stands, expert panels and practical learning opportunities across all GAA codes.

Attendees engaged with a wide range of stands including Go Games, Foireann, GAA Handball, GAA Rounders, The Camogie Association, Green Clubs, Hurlóg, SafeClubs, in addition to the Community Sports Facilities Fund, NAD Ireland, Youth Development and South East Technological University (SETU), all offering guidance, expertise and hands-on advice to clubs.

GAA Rounders enjoyed a highly successful day at the summit, with strong engagement and interest at its stand throughout the event. The GAA Rounders stand was represented by President Paula Doherty, National Secretary Shirley Lennon, Leinster Representative PJ Lalor, Munster Representative Michael Sheahan, Development Officer Mark Jennings and Communications Officer Chiara Trench, all of whom engaged with attendees throughout the day. Many visitors stopped to learn more about the sport, with particular interest in how to establish Rounders clubs and teams within their own communities. The level of enthusiasm and curiosity reflected the growing appetite for Rounders across the Association, making the Club Summit an invaluable platform for promoting the game and supporting its continued development nationwide.

With a strong focus on the key pillars of club life — running your club, supporting your people, enhancing your facilities and developing your games — the summit provided a one-stop forum for volunteers to learn about the wide range of supports available to them within the GAA ecosystem. Knowing where to go for help, who to ask, and what resources are available is essential for modern club management, and the summit delivered this in abundance.

Expert panels throughout the day addressed topics central to club sustainability, including funding opportunities, player welfare, creating clubs where everyone belongs, and ensuring clubs operate effectively. Each session was well attended and generated strong engagement, reflecting the appetite among volunteers to continually improve and future-proof their clubs

One of the standout sessions of the day was a Dugout Panel hosted by Aisling O’Reilly, which focused on the heart of the GAA — its members and volunteers. The panel featured Tom Ryan, GAA Director General; Paula Doherty, President of GAA Rounders; Lizzie Lynch, GAA Handball; Karen Dessain-Gellinet of The Camogie Association; and Lyn Savage of the LGFA.

The discussion centred on the lifeblood of the GAA-its network of volunteers, and concluded with what the GAA has given them, both personally and professionally.

Tom Ryan spoke of the deep-rooted sense of belonging the Association provides:

           “The GAA has given me a sense of identity — a common pursuit with my neighbours, my friends and family.”

Karen Dessain-Gellinet reflected on the lifelong impact of involvement in camogie:

           “This role has allowed me to merge my childhood dream, something I am completely passionate about, with my career. You make lifelong friends and connections, and you never know where that can bring you. For that, I am eternally grateful to camogie.”

Lizzie Lynch highlighted the formative power of teamwork:

           “Working as a team is often your first introduction to teamwork as a child. Being on a team has helped me throughout my professional career. You learn so much about yourself, your teammates and life in general — the GAA really stands to us.”

Lyn Savage emphasised the strength of community within Gaelic games:

          “Friendships. No matter what happens in your life, someone from Gaelic games is there for you. There is nothing in this world like Gaelic games for community.”

Paula Doherty echoed the theme of identity and opportunity, reflecting on her journey within Rounders:

With its clear focus on recognising, supporting and empowering volunteers, the inaugural GAA Club Summit has proved itself as a must-attend event for club members across all codes next year. By highlighting the supports available and fostering connections across the Association, the summit ensured that attendees returned to their clubs better informed, inspired and equipped to continue the vital work they do in their communities.