It’s all systems “Go” in Cavan

After the success of pilot events in 2025, the expanded Go Games for Rounders programme got underway in style on Saturday, 9 May, with the first blitz of the year taking place at Mullahoran GAA.

Organised by the dedicated Go Games volunteers of Erne Eagles Rounders Club, the event welcomed close to 100 children from several local clubs for a brilliant day of fun, games, and rounders action. Clubs represented on the day included Gowna GFC, Killygarry GFC, Lacken GFC, Cavan Gaels GFC, Ballinagh GFC, Drumgoon GFC, Mullahoran GFC and Granard GFC.

GAA Rounders President, Paula Doherty delivers the first pitch of Go Games 2026

Guest of Honour

In attendance was Paula Doherty, President of GAA Rounders, who officially launched the 2026 activities by delivering the ceremonial first pitch of the year. Before play began, Paula also presented the Cavan Go Games for Rounders programme with a comprehensive kit of bats, helmets, sliotars and training equipment, helping create a simple “turn up and play” experience for all involved.

Also attending the event were Shirley Lennon, National Secretary of GAA Rounders, and Craig Davis, the organisation’s Children’s Officer, both of whom spent the day meeting participants and supporting the programme.

Speaking about the initiative, Paula Doherty said that GAA Rounders is committed to making the sport more accessible for the youngest members of the GAA community, and that investment in the Go Gamesinitiative is an important step in helping achieve that goal.

The blitz was coordinated by Go Games champion Amanda Fitzsimons, alongside a fantastic team of volunteers from Erne Eagles Rounders Club. Members of the club’s underage section were also on hand throughout the day, helping children learn the rules, practise their skills, and settle into games straight away.

Amanda Fitzsimons, with Paula Doherty, Shirley Lennon and the Cavan Go Games for Rounders volunteers

Played in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, the day flew by as children quickly picked up the basics of rounders while enjoying plenty of games and activities with new friends. The enthusiasm and energy on display highlighted the growing excitement around Go Games for Rounders and made for a hugely successful opening blitz to the 2026 season.

A second Go Games blitz in Cavan is already planned for 6 June. Any club interested in attending can contact Amanda at gogames.cavan.rounders@gaa.ie for further information.