Intermediate & Senior Rounders Action Takes Centre Stage
While most of Weekend 1’s predictions were close, last weekend was a tough one with too many calls going wrong. Time to reset and take a proper look at who’s performing and who still has work to do.
This is the last weekend before mid-July without Junior action, so the focus shifts fully to the Intermediate and Senior games taking place across three provinces on Sunday.
Raheen v Emo – Intermediate Mixed
First up in Raheen, Wexford, at 11am is the Intermediate Mixed clash between Raheen and Emo. Raheen, winners of the Intermediate Men’s and Women’s titles in 2024, will be eager to add the Mixed crown to their collection. Emo, meanwhile, bring a fresh group stepping up from Minor and will be keen to make an impact.
Both sides had players involved in the CWL Winter League, so fitness won’t be an issue. Expect strong performances from the ever-reliable JP Tynan and Chloe and Gillian Keenan, while young talents like Liam Horgan, Raife Eogan and Joshua Suda look ready to rise to the Intermediate challenge for Emo. Raheen’s Aidan McDonald, Eunan Furlong, Nakita Martin and Seamus Bourke remain threats both at bat and in the field.
Myshall’s PJ Lalor takes charge of this one for his third consecutive week refereeing at Intermediate level.
Prediction: Emo to just shade it
Intermediate & Senior Action in Galway
Galway Rapparees are on sandwich making duty again this week as they host three games, one Intermediate and two Senior showdowns.
Galway City Rapparees v Elphin – Intermediate Women
The day begins at 12pm with their Intermediate Women facing newly promoted Elphin. The Galway side are said to have added a new pitcher and will be quietly confident on home turf.
Elphin, however, arrive with Gretta Davis — well capable at this level and an experienced pitcher — and will be eager to make a statement in their new grade. With a year of Intermediate experience behind them, Rapparees look slightly better placed, but this won’t come easy.
Prediction: Galway City Rapparees
Kilmeena v Breaffy – Senior Mixed
At 1.45pm, Kilmeena return to Galway to face fellow Mayo side Breaffy in Senior Mixed. Breaffy come in off the back of a strong win over Carrickmacross and look settled early in the campaign.
Kilmeena, on the other hand, will be keen to bounce back after their opening loss to Limekiln. If they can stay composed at bat and tighten up defensively, they could make this competitive — but Breaffy’s form suggests they should have enough.
Prediction: Breaffy
Galway City Rapparees v Breaffy – Senior Men
The final game in Galway sees the hosts’ Senior Men take on Breaffy at 3.30pm. After an impressive opening against Limekiln, the Galway side appear to have adapted quickly to life at Senior level.
Breaffy’s outfield strength will test them, but the Rapparees’ defence looks equally solid. Colin Cannon impressed last time out, but Ryan Dennis has shown he can match any Senior pitcher. Expect strong batting, sharp fielding and a game that could go right down to the wire.
One of GAA Rounders’ top referees, Philip Keane of The Heath, will officiate all three games.
Prediction: Galway City Rapparees
Monaghan vs Wexford Battle in Intermediate Women
Inniskeen Grattans v Castletown Liam Mellows
The final venue is Inniskeen, where two newly promoted sides meet at 1pm looking to secure their second win of the campaign. Castletown Liam Mellows opened with a win over Dublin Metropolitans, while Inniskeen Grattans followed up with a strong result against Emo last weekend.
The winner here could well find themselves topping the table, and it promises to be a tight contest. Both teams bring strong hitters and solid fielders, so composure on the day will likely decide it.
National Secretary Shirley Lennon will take charge.
Prediction: Inniskeen Grattans
Sunday Rounders Fixtures & Preview
Intermediate and Senior action takes centre stage across three provinces.
Sunday Fixtures
11:00 – Raheen vs Emo
Intermediate Mixed
12:00 – Galway Rapparees vs Elphin
Intermediate Women
13:00 – Inniskeen Grattans vs Castletown LM
Intermediate Women
Seven short days after Opening Weekend and we were back to Sunday Rounders in two venues on 26 April
Tymon Park hosted three Senior and three Intermediate games while Castlebar was the venue for three more Senior Games.
Clashes of Champions in Connacht
Senior Women
Four in a row All-Ireland Women’s Champions Breaffy hosted newly promoted Carrickmacross Emmets in both sides’ first game of the 2026 Championship and while, on paper, this looked like an easy warm up game for Breaffy, the Monaghan ladies had other ideas and came out fighting.Kim Thornton, Marie Whelan and Laura Hughes all got home in the first innings before Breaffy got their third out and came in to bat. Some clever Carrickmacross fielding saw them hold the Mayo side to the same score. Unfortunately, the following two innings saw the Champions up the pace and keep Carrick scoreless, while managing to get 21 home themselves.
With the score 24-3 going into the fourth, Carrick had an uphill battle to win and, with the fourth innings not bringing anyone home, they batted on where Olive Allen managed to score a run to make the final score 24-4. Breaffy’s outs and homes came from several players, showing their talented squad’s abilities to field and bat well. Carrickmacross can be proud of how they performed against the reigning All-Ireland champions in their first Senior Women’s outing and will undoubtedly use the skills learned on Sunday in their next match against The Heath, their old adversaries from Intermediate, on 17 May. Breaffy ladies face Cúchulainn on 10 May in Athlone.
Senior Mixed
Next up were the Senior Mixed teams from both clubs. Breaffy batted first, getting two home, before Carrickmacross went comfortably ahead, bringing five runners home. Breaffy came out in the second meaning business and scored seven runs, to which Carrickmacross had no answer, with two scoreless innings. Both sides brought onehome in the fourth but the damage had been done and the match ended 19-11 to the current All-Ireland Mixed title holders. Euan Matthews, Justin Burns and Frank Duffy all performed well for the Monaghan side while Breaffy’s Colin Cannon and Michelle Hopkins were responsible for the majority of their side’s outs.
Senior Men
Last to play in Castlebar was the match of the day between the 2025 All-Ireland Men’s winners, Carrickmacross, and the hosts’ Men’s team who reached the 2024 final and the 2025 Semi-finals.
Carrickmacross batted first and were leading by one at the end of the third innings. However, Breaffy found their stride in the fourth, bringing nine home to give them a 24-18 lead going into the final innings. With Carrickmacross not managing to bring anyone home in the fifth, Breaffy won 24-18 with a bat in hand. Breaffy’s outfield trio of John Gibbons, Victor del Rosal and Nathan McHale secured six of the day’s outswhile Carrick’s Colm Kiernan at Back Catcher and Declan Finnegan and Dillon Carolan outfield contributed well to their side’s scoreline.
Dublin Sides Welcome Wexford, Monaghan and Laois to Tymon Park
Dublin Metropolitans are working with Limekiln this year to host some of their games in Tymon Park and Sunday saw them welcome Wexford’s Glynn Barntown to Walkinstown to play both Intermediate Mixed and Women’s games.
Intermediate Women
From the first innings, Glynn Barntown’s ability to get players home made it difficult for them to make an impact on the scoresheet. Dublin Mets punished this by scoring 21 runs in their first three batting innings, forcing Glynn Barntown to bat on. Although the Wexford side brought eight runners home in the final innings, it just wasn’t to be their day, and the Dubs won 21-15 with two bats in hand. Shortstop Karen Byrne and Jackie Long on 2nd base were Glynn Barntown’s notable fielders while Eileen O’Connor pitched multiple foul-outs for Dublin Mets.
Also in Tymon Park, newly promoted Inniskeen took on their first Intermediate match against Laois side Emo. In a close match which saw Emo lead for the first two innings, then go behind by three and pull it back to lead by one at the end of the fourth, it was the Monaghan ladies who managed to get three runs in their final innings at bat to win by the narrowest of margins and take the match 9-8.
Inniskeen’s Siobhán Cunningham at Right Outfield had a great day for outs while Emo’s pitcher Claire Suda and Right Outfield Ruth O’Connell both contributed well to their side’s fielding stats.
In Intermediate Mixed, Dublin Metropolitans and Glynn Barntown met once again. Mets batted first and took an early 10-2 lead after the first three innings. It wasn’t until the final innings that Glynn Barntown found their stride and got eight runners home. However, it was too little too late and the home side took the win 17-12. Glynn Barntown’s catcher, Michelle Malone, got home twice and was responsible for four outs while the Dublin side’s stars were Short Stop Beau Carley and his Left Outfield brother Asa who, between them, were responsible for three runs and seven outs.
Next up for Dublin Mets is a home game against newly promoted St. Senan’s of Limerick on 10 May while Glynn Barntown have a break until the end of June when their Women will play Inniskeen Grattans, also in Tymon Park.
Senior Games in Tymon
Limekiln’s Senior pitch saw mixed action start the day with Wexford’s Glynn Barntown taking on the home side. Glynn Barntown batted first and got four home before a foul by pitcher Chris Hughes and two great catches by Left Outfield Adam Riordan and Right Outfield Yvonne Healy led to the switchover. Limekiln got two home. The game was close and both teams tightly matched, with scores level at 7-7 headinginto the final innings. Glynn Barntown got three home and Limekiln had to match that to draw.
While Yvonne Healy got safely to first, Merilin Neiland’s hit was caught by Paddy King, Adam Riordan was caught out by Ann Roche and Serena Costelloe’s ball was hit straight into the hands of Paul Cooper. The game ended 10-7 to the visitors. Paddy King and Paul Cooper both had a great game with multiple catches.
It was time for the Men from both clubs to take centre stage and in a cracking hour-long game we saw amazing catches, skilful batting and great fielding from both sides. Ultimately it was the Wexford men who took the win 14-8 but, for the second week in a row, pitching ten innings in the same day, Chris Hughes played two super games, while Ciarán Weldon racked up runs and outs. Eddie Healy covered every inch ofthe pitch and was involved in four outs. Pitcher Aaron Walsh and 3rdBaseminder Paul Delaney were outstanding for Glynn Barntown.
Our final game of the day was the Senior Women’s match and Glynn Barntown’s starting line-up was interesting and unexpected. Aileen Kelly came in from her usual outfield position to pitch, Alisha Reddy moved from 3rd base to 1st and Sheena King left her comfort zone of 1st base to cover Left Outfield. After two innings, with Glynn Barntown trailing by nine runs, Emma Reddy came on for Stephanie Kelly and everyone moved back to their usual positions.
However, Limekiln’s ladies were just too strong and managed to rack up another five runs to win 17-13 with a bat in hand. Strongest for the Wexford side were Alisha and Emma Reddywhile Limekiln’s notable outs came from pitcher Serena Costelloe, Marion Hughes and Yvonne Healy.
Limekiln’s next matches are on 17 May in Athlone versus Breaffy while Glynn Barntown’s Women are next out on 24 May against The Heath.
Sunday 3 May will be our last week of only Intermediate and Senior action as Junior matches will commence on 10 May, following next Saturday’s Junior Day in Wexford GAA’s Centre of Excellence in Ferns. Previews of this weekend’s matches will drop this Thursday.
Although the new GAA Rounders Constitution has removed the traditional 28 February deadline, the start of the year has remained a busy time for players looking to pull on new jerseys. Let’s take a closer look at who is moving where and how these signings might shift the balance of power in 2026!
Everyone is moving to Limekiln!
Dublin Senior Club Limekiln, based in Tymon Park, has been incredibly active, recruiting a mix of fresh talent from across Leinster and Ulster.
Serena Costelloe, Erica Meslin & Merilin Neiland have all made the short move from Crumlin to Walkinstown. The former Kevin’s ladies were left teamless when Kevin’s didn’t enter the All-Ireland Championship this year. Serena played in Limekiln’s Mixed win over Kilmeena in Galway on 19 April and had a starring role as Pitcher in Limekiln Senior Women’s defeat over newly promoted The Heath, making it home three times and being involved in seven outs. Erica’s first appearance for Limekiln came in that same Senior Women’s game and she also proved what a versatile and skilled player she is, getting home each of her five times up to bat while also playing her part in five outs.
Back row, left – Colette McCaul; fourth from left, Serena Costelloe. Front row, left – Erica Meslin
Not content with signing Leinster female players, Limekiln have also recruited former St. Clare’s player and former Junior All-Star Colette McCaul. With her strength at bat, her speed and her ability to catch any ball at Left Outfield, Colette has shown that several years away from the sport hasn’t dimmed her abilities or talents and was a force to be reckoned with during the Senior Women’s win over The Heath.
Limekiln’s final signing – so far – this year is The Heath’s Peter Salmon. A versatile player who can contribute outfield or on base, batting and fielding, Peter also joined the Limekiln crew for his first match on 19 April in Galway where he had a brilliant first Senior Men’s match in blue and yellow, contributing three runs and five outs.
Peter Salmon, right – J98Media
Other Senior & Intermediate Transfers
Also leaving The Heath, who this year have no Mixed or Men’s teams in the Championship, is Austin O’Meara who is staying in the same county and moving to 2025 Intermediate Men’s and Mixed Finalists Emo. Emo’s first Intermediate Men’s outing this year will be on 10 May when they host Kilmeena and we look forward to seeing Austin on the pitch that day.
Leaving Kilmeena for a move to the blue and white of St. Clare’s is Katie McLoughlin. St. Clare’s will welcome Katie to their Mixed and Women’s Intermediate teams and will hope her addition to the squad will help their chances of an Intermediate title in 2026.
Moving the other direction, to Kilmeena, is Breaffy’s Gerard Walsh while also in Connacht, former Michael Glavey’s Intermediate Women’s pitcher, Gretta Davis, has moved the short distance to newly Elphin. Gretta’s experience as a pitcher and Intermediate player will be seen as a major coup for Elphin as they navigate the jump to the Intermediate grade.
Gretta Davis – moving from Michael Glavey’s to Elphin
The final player moving to Connacht is Erne Eagles’ Tríona Moran who moved west to play Junior Mixed and Intermediate Women with Galway City Rapparees.
Junior Transfers
Unfortunately, Mayo Gaels did not affiliate for 2026 and two of their players have made the move to local rivals Garrymore. Both Joel Carter and Paul Murphy played on the Mayo Gaels Junior Mixed team in 2025 and have now transferred to assist the Garrymore Junior Mixed side this year. The third Mayo Gaels player to move is Gerard Scahill who has made the trip to Senior club Breaffy.
The only Munster transfer for 2026 is that of Sophie Moroney from All-Ireland winners St. Senan’s to Kildimo Pallaskenry.
In Ulster, Sachin Krishnan has left Monaghan’s Inniskeen Grattans to go to Antrim’s Wolfe Tones where he will join their Junior Mixed squad.
Meanwhile in Leinster five ladies are on the move as follows:
Liz Fitzgerald – Glynn Barntown to Kilanerin Ballyfad
Grace Power, Lisa Power, Lorna Byrne – Skryne to Dunsany
Shirley O’Neill – Fethard St. Mogue’s to Gusserane
With no official closing date for transfers this year, these are unlikely to be the last moves we’ll see in 2026…so keep an eye on our website and socials for more information on acquisitions and defections!
Full 2026 Transfer List
Serena Costelloe – Kevin’s to Limekiln
Erica Meslin – Kevin’s to Limekiln
Merilin Neiland – Kevin’s to Limekiln
Colette McCaul – St. Clare’s to Limekiln
Peter Salmon – The Heath to Limekiln
Austin O’Meara – The Heath to Emo
Katie McLoughlin – Kilmeena to St. Clare’s
Gerard Walsh – Breaffy to Kilmeena
Gretta Davis – Michael Glavey’s to Elphin
Tríona Moran – Erne Eagles to Galway City Rapparees
Joel Carter – Mayo Gaels to Garrymore
Paul Murphy – Mayo Gaels to Garrymore
Gerard Scahill – Mayo Gaels to Breaffy
Sophie Moroney – St. Senan’s to Kildimo Pallaskenry
Sachin Krishnan – Inniskeen Grattans to Wolfe Tones
Liz Fitzgerald – Glynn Barntown to Kilanerin Ballyfad
Grace Power – Skryne to Dunsany
Lisa Power – Skryne to Dunsany
Lorna Byrne – Skryne to Dunsany
Shirley O’Neill – Fethard St. Mogue’s to Gusserane
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6769.jpeg9041021Joe Naughtonhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngJoe Naughton2026-04-24 16:00:452026-04-24 23:29:042026 GAA Rounders Transfers: Full List of Player Moves
Opening weekend threw up a few surprises, but Weekend 2 promises to be an even more thrilling ride with four of our Senior clubs and four Intermediate clubs in action across two locations.
Senior Women, Mixed & Men – Breaffy vs Carrickmacross Emmets
Ballyheane, Castlebar
Action starts at 12:00 PM in Mayo, where three reigning All-Ireland Champion teams face off in what could be the definitive triple-header of the early season.
First up, Breaffy’s Women host Carrickmacross Emmets. Newly promoted following a dominant 2025 Intermediate season, Carrickmacross will have their work cut out facing the four-in-a-row All-Ireland winners, but the Monaghan ladies are never one to shy from a challenge. This tight squad has big hitters and brilliant fielders who are well able to play Rounders at the highest level.
While Breaffy have three current All-Stars in their squad, they are missing 3rd Base star and GAA Rounders President Paula Doherty, who isn’t playing this year. Their pitcher and catcher duo of Michelle Hopkins and Katie Groonell will be hard to beat, but Carrick’s core team has been working together since winning the Junior Women’s title in 2023 and will put up quite the fight.
At 1.30pm it’s the turn of both clubs’ Mixed teams to take to the pitch. Two-in-a-row All-Ireland champions Breaffy will be keen to get their season off to a winning start and, with home advantage, they will aim to get ahead quickly. Carrickmacross will want to start strong and contain the Mayo side by putting their own stamp on the game and not allowing Breaffy to dominate early. With multiple All-Stars and All-Ireland winners on both squads, this has the makings of the match of the day.
The final game of the day in the west is the clash of both sides’ Men’s teams. Breaffy reached the 2025 semi-finals and will be looking to go one better this year by reaching the All-Ireland Final. Carrickmacross are the current champions and will be hoping to retain their crown in 2026. Expect tight pitching, batting and fielding, with no quarter given by either side.
Colm Jordan
Stars like outfielder Colm Jordan and short stop Mark Jennings for Breaffy will be well matched against their Carrickmacross counterparts Oran Kiernan, Euan Matthews, Declan Finnegan and Paddy Bermingham. While the result could go either way, the road there will be anything but boring.
Referee: Dublin Metropolitans’ Jack Cheyne will referee all three games.
Predictions: Women – Breaffy; Mixed – Breaffy; Men – Carrickmacross Emmets
Senior Men, Mixed & Women – Limekiln vs Glynn Barntown
Tymon Park
Limekiln Rounders host a massive six-match schedule in Tymon Park, featuring three Senior and three Intermediate games.
In Senior, Limekiln will play Wexford’s Glynn Barntown in all three codes, starting at 1pm with Senior Men. Fresh from their impressive first match of the season last Sunday in Galway, Limekiln will be aiming to keep that momentum going and go one step better with a win over their old rivals. Limekiln’s new signing, Peter Salmon, had an outstanding match against Rapparees and, if he can continue that dominance at 1st Base, and 2025 All-Star Ciarán Weldon can keep up his superb batting record from last Sunday, the Dublin side will be hard to beat.
Eddie Healy with a phenomenal catch – Limekiln instagram
However, Glynn Barntown’s men can never be underestimated and, if Paul Cooper and Paul Delaney play at their best, as well as the excellent Garry Jordan at backcatcher having a good day, we could be in for a very exciting match.
Following their comprehensive win over Kilmeena last Sunday, Limekiln’s Mixed team will be full of confidence when they take on Glynn Barntown and, with the Dublin side’s newly boosted squad of transferred players from St. Clare’s, Emo and Kevin’s, they will have to be favourites to win. We can hopefully look forward to seeing some more contenders for Catch of the Year from Eddie Healy, but he will face strong competition from teammates Serena Costello and Colette McCaul, as well as Glynn Barntown’s trademark excellent outfield catches.
Last match of the day on Tymon Park’s Senior pitch is the clash of Limekiln and Glynn Barntown’s Senior Women, and this will be a game worth waiting for. Glynn Barntown were the 2025 finalists and will be determined to go one better this year, while Limekiln are returning to Senior ranks in 2026 and looking to make an immediate impact.
Limekiln’s win over The Heath will give them confidence and the signs are that they are settling quickly at this level. Glynn Barntown, though, have experience at the top grade and will be keen to put last season’s final disappointment behind them. With some of their Intermediate players newly promoted to Senior, the added depth and fresh energy could be a big help as they aim to start the 2026 season on a positive note.
Referee: Emo’s Michael Slevin will be in charge for all three games.
Predictions: Women – Limekiln; Mixed – Limekiln; Men – Limekiln
Intermediate Women & Mixed – Tymon Park
Dublin Metropolitans vs Glynn Barntown; Emo vs Inniskeen
Tymon Park will also host three Intermediate matches on their second pitch, with two Women’s games and a Mixed match all up for decision.
First up is Dublin Metropolitans ladies vs Glynn Barntown’s ladies. Mets will be keen to bounce back from last Sunday’s defeat to Castletown Liam Mellows and will be hoping that shortstop Katie Flynn and Jessica Maddock on 2nd Base will continue their great form from last week, but Glynn Barntown’s Intermediate ladies can never be underestimated and have several years’ experience at this grade which will stand to them.
With no Junior Women’s team this year, Glynn Barntown’s Intermediate squad has been boosted with the introduction of many of last year’s Junior players, and a bigger squad means more competition for places and hungrier players.
The second Intermediate match will be the same teams playing Mixed. With the ladies possibly playing their second match of the day, the pressure will be on the fresh legs of the male players to impress and really show how much they want to start their 2026 campaigns by winning. Newly promoted to Intermediate this year, Dublin Mets will be eager to impress and show that they belong in this grade, but Glynn Barntown will equally be keen to prove their credentials as a long-time Intermediate team.
The final Intermediate match will be back to Women’s and will see Laois’ Emo taking on newly promoted, and 2025 Junior Women’s champions, Inniskeen of Monaghan. Emo struggled in Intermediate last year, their first year in the grade following their Junior All-Ireland win in 2024, but have they managed to get it together for a more successful season this year? Will Inniskeen suffer a similar fate in 2026, with the jump from Junior to Intermediate being a difficult one to navigate?
Pitching from Emo’s Claire Suda and Inniskeen’s Julianne Smith will be key, while Inniskeen’s skilled fielders like Carol McKeown and Layla McArdle will really need to shine if they are to stop Emo from dominating at bat.
Referee: Myshall’s PJ Lalor will take charge of all three Intermediate matches.
Predictions: Intermediate Women – Glynn Barntown and Inniskeen; Intermediate Mixed – Dublin Metropolitans
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6617.jpeg9011179Joe Naughtonhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngJoe Naughton2026-04-23 12:02:462026-04-23 12:02:46GAA Rounders Fixtures & Preview: All Games This Sunday (26 April 2026)
Quality Games in four Counties on 2026 Championship Opening Weekend
Sunday 19 April marked the start of the 2026 GAA Rounders Championship, and it certainly didn’t disappoint with cracking games in Carlow, Galway, Roscommon and Wexford.
Intermediate Championship
Intermediate Women
Our first Intermediate Women’s game of 2026 involved two newly promoted sides and a sunny pitch in Wexford. Castletown Liam Mellows, 2025 semi-finalists and 2023 finalists, hosted Dublin Metropolitans, fellow 2025 semi-finalists.
Shortstops had the lion’s share of outs with Mets’ Katie Flynn getting four outs from catches while Castletown’s Edel Coade-Morris was responsible for three outs with some brilliant throws to base as well as great catches of her own.
From the opening innings, Castletown’s batting and running had them lead and by the end of the third innings they were ahead 16-9. However, the fourth and fifth innings saw them dominate and score a further 18 runs, a dominance against which Dublin Mets had no answer.
Final score was 34-14 to Castletown Liam Mellows who will now meet Inniskeen Grattans in Inniskeen on 3 May. Dublin Metropolitans will host Glynn Barntown in Tymon Park on Sunday 26 April.
Intermediate Men
The Intermediate Men’s competition started on a bright morning in Roscommon with newly promoted Kilmore hosting Dublin Metropolitans’ men. Kilmore contested, and narrowly lost, the 2025 Junior Men’s final, while Dublin Mets won the 2024 Junior Men’s final.
Kilmore’s opening weekend at Intermediate
Dublin Mets batted first and got off to a good start with Beau and Asa Carley and Jack Cheyne all making it home. Kilmore took that up a notch getting four scores on the board before their first player was out and taking that up to 11 before the innings was over.
Kilmore dominated the second innings with three quick outs and an additional eight runs scored. Innings three and four saw Dublin Mets confined to three runs while Kilmore added 11 to their total. Entering the final innings, Dublin Mets had it all to do to make up the 24-run deficit and it proved to be impossible with Kilmore taking the game, with a bat in hand, 30-6. On the pitch,
David Singleton for the Mets and Kilmore’s Mark Harrington gave notable performances with diving catches and impressive batting. Mets will host St. Senan’s of Limerick in Tymon Park on 10 May while Kilmore get to have a break until 24 May when they head to Laois to play Emo.
Senior Championship
Senior Women
The only Senior Women’s match of opening day was in Carlow between hostesses Cúchulainn and Cavan’s Erne Eagles.
Eagles’ Fainche Higgins proved that her 2025 debut for the club wasn’t just beginner’s luck with four impressive catches and a throw to get an out. Rachel Reilly, Irene Scanlon, Geraldine Goldrick and Shirleen Burns, as pitcher, all contributed multiple outs and assists for a strong Eagles’ performance.
For Cúchulainn, Amy Moloney at Left Outfield and Amy Kelly at Centre Outfield both contributed to their sides’ outs while the ever-dependable Caroline Waters and Marian Sheir also helped to keep their side in the game. By the end of the third innings there was only one run in it which Cúchulainn managed to pull back in the fourth. With both sides scoring four runs in the final innings, it ended 17-17.
Cuchulainn squad for opening day of 2026
Senior Mixed
Next up in Carlow it was the turn of the Mixed teams from Cúchulainn and Erne Eagles to take to the pitch. Cúchulainn batted first and their first three batters were caught out, two by Sarah Galligan on 2nd Base. Eagles replied with two runs in their first bat, with two outs by Pierce Ryan at Short Stop.
The second innings saw three of Cúchulainn’s first four batters caught out while Eagles managed to get another two home. Innings three and four saw three runners home for Cúchulainn who kept Erne Eagles scoreless with catches from Billy Connors, Pierce Ryan and Kamil Walczak as well as two players out on 1st Base by Marian Sheir. Going into the final innings one run behind,
Cúchulainn were unable to earn the draw and it finished 4-3 to Eagles with a bat in hand. In what is a 2026 record for the shortest game of the season, this was over in 39 minutes!
Across the country in balmy Galway, the relief of a playable pitch after several weeks of rain and threatened pitch closures, gave a happy start to the Senior Mixed match between Kilmeena of Mayo and Limekiln of Dublin.
Newly signed Serena Costelloe got her Limekiln career off to a brilliant start with two fantastic outs in the first innings – an amazing throw from 3rd to 1st Base and a catch from the catcher, Kenny O’Reilly, to get the out on her own base. Two more outs on her own base in Innings 2 as well as some solid batting combined to make it a great day for Serena’s first outing in the yellow and blue of her new club.
Solid fielding and batting as well from Eddie Healy who – in an early bid for Catch of the Season – made two dramatic dive catches as well as a well thought-out double out at the end of the second innings. Pitcher Chris Hughes had his share of foul outs and catches as well in what was a very entertaining game.
Pitching for Kilmeena, Catríona Cox had a great fielding game, while Kilmeena outfielders Martin Hoban and Darragh McDonnell both contributed with some great catches. While Limekiln triumphed with a score of 12-4, with a bat in hand, Kilmeena will take heart from some great plays and smart fielding on which they will develop for their next match, on 3 May, against Mixed Champions Breaffy.
Limekiln’s next matches are at home on 26 April against Wexford’s Glynn Barntown.
Senior Men
We were spoiled on opening weekend with two Senior Men’s games taking place on opposite coasts.
In Carlow, following their Senior Women’s and Mixed draw and loss to Erne Eagles, Cúchulainn’s Men were hoping to take it a step further and claim the victory. With Eagles’ first three batters safely home, Cúchulainn hit their stride with Batters 6, 7 and 8 all out in quick succession with catches from Peadar Waters and Pierce Ryan.
Cúchulainn’s answer was to get four home from their first batting innings. The second innings saw Eagles add two to their score and keep Cúchulainn from adding to their tally. By the end of the fourth innings the score was 11-5 to the Cavan men and it ended 14-6 in their favour.
It was a great day at the office for Owen Roe O’Reilly with six outs from catches while Cúchulainn’s Peadar Waters wasn’t far behind with an involvement in five outs during the match. Catch of the Match came in the final innings when Billy Connors made an outstanding one-handed catch.
Next up for Cúchulainn is a a trip to Athlone GAA on 10 May to play reigning Women’s and Mixed All-Ireland title holders Breaffy of Mayo.
Erne Eagles will also head to Athlone on 10 May to take on Glynn Barntown of Wexford in all three Senior codes.
Limekiln v Galway Rapparees – J98Media
Second match of the day in Galway was the hotly anticipated Senior debut of Galway City Rapparees, 2025’s Intermediate Men’s winners, against veterans Limekiln of Dublin.
Rapparees batted first and managed to get two home before Peter Salmon was involved in the first two outs, while Sean Ingoldsby at Right Outfield threw a super ball to get Rory McGarvey out on 3rd. Confidence high, Rapparees got the first three Limekiln batters out with Cathal Creaven catching one out and assisting for a second out on 1st Base. Limekiln remained scoreless in their second attempt at bat with pitcher Ryan Dennis responsible for two of the outs. Rapparees got one run in leaving the score 3-0 going into the third.
The scoreline really opened up in this innings with the Galway side getting nine home and, while Limekiln did get five runs, it was too little too late. Both sides brought three runners home in the final innings but the final score was 20-12 to the Galway men who proved in their first outing at Senior that they’re more than capable of playing in the big league!
Cathal Creaven with a super catch v Limekiln – J98Media
Outstanding plays on both sides but notable mentions go to Galway’s Cathal Creaven for his ability to cover so much ground and contribute to several plays and Ryan Dennis for consistent pitching and catching. For Limekiln, new member of the club, Peter Salmon, was outstanding at 1st Base, while pitcher Chris Hughes, pitching his second full game of the day, Seán Ingoldsby and Eddie Healy can all be pleased with their work rate and contribution.
Next up for Galway Rapparees is neighbours Breaffy on 3 May, in Galway.
Our second weekend of Senior and Intermediate action will be on Sunday 26 April and if it’s even half as exciting as opening day, we’re in for a rollercoaster of a season! Previews, venues and times to follow later in the week.
The wait is nearly over as the 2026 All-Ireland Championship season gets underway with Senior and Intermediate action across Ballon, Galway, Wexford and Kilmore
The date we have all been waiting for is nearly here and the familiar question of “what will we do on Sunday?” won’t be an issue for the next 22 weeks, because the GAA Rounders All-Ireland Championship season is back!
Last season, the Friday Preview & Predictions article became a weekly talking point, so it returns for 2026. There is a new writer this year, remaining anonymous for what can only be described as “personal safety” reasons, along with a slightly different style of analysis and fewer statistics. The goal, however, remains exactly the same: to start conversations, spark debate and, ideally, give readers every chance to prove the previewer wrong.
Senior Championship Preview
Ballon and Galway host the opening Senior fixtures of the 2026 season, with heavyweight clashes, returning stars and one major milestone for Galway City Rapparees
Ballon hosts a blockbuster opening day
This Sunday, 19 April, the honour of pitching the first ball of the 2026 Senior season will go to either Irene Scanlon of Cavan’s Erne Eagles or Cúchulainn of Carlow’s as yet unrevealed pitcher when their women’s championship clash gets underway in Ballon at 12pm.
Both clubs reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Championship, so there is plenty on the line from the outset. With multiple All-Star winners and nominees from 2025 and previous seasons taking to the pitch for both teams, this promises to be an excellent curtain-raiser. The blend of youth and experience across both squads should produce skilful batting, composed fielding and no shortage of big moments.
At 1.30pm, the focus shifts to the Senior Mixed contest. As 2025 All-Ireland runners-up, Erne Eagles will be determined to show that they remain genuine title contenders in 2026. Cúchulainn, meanwhile, will be equally eager to prove that they can go one step further this year and reach the final themselves. Erne Eagles’ Senior Mixed panel has already thrown up a few surprises, so there will be keen interest in the side that eventually takes the field.
The final game in Ballon at 3pm sees the Men’s teams go head to head. Erne Eagles were also Men’s All-Ireland runners-up in 2025 and recent form suggests they may start as favourites, but underestimating the Carlow side on home soil would be a mistake. Rumour has it that Darryl Dolan is ready to return following his 2025 injury, which would be a significant boost for the visitors. With experienced figures on both sides, including Ard Chomhairle member and Cúchulainn pitcher Peadar Waters, this one has all the ingredients of a tense and closely fought battle.
Referee: Emo stalwart Michael Slevin will take charge of all three games.
There is early action in Galway too, with two Senior fixtures down for decision on the grounds of Coláiste Muire Máthair from 1pm. Dublin legends Limekiln travel west to face Mayo’s Kilmeena in Senior Mixed before taking on the newly promoted Galway City Rapparees in Senior Men.
After a difficult 2025 campaign, Limekiln have regrouped, brought in transferred players and assembled a bigger squad. They now look ready to remind everyone why they have been Rounders royalty for more than 20 years. Kilmeena, meanwhile, finished last season strongly after a slow start in Senior Mixed, so they will be determined to hit the ground running this time around.
This looks like a game that could be quick, sharp and highly competitive. Both pitchers will be desperate to give away as little as possible. Limekiln’s outfield will want to stay watertight, while Kilmeena will be eager to contain multi-position stars such as Ciarán Weldon both at bat and in the field. There may also be a few familiar faces in unfamiliar colours, with some players last seen in Kevin’s blue and white now sporting Limekiln jerseys.
At 2.45pm, Galway City Rapparees enter uncharted territory as they play their first ever Senior match. For a club whose men’s team won the Junior Day Blitz in 2021, this has been a remarkable rise. Sunday’s fixture already feels like a milestone moment and it has the makings of a hugely entertaining Senior debut.
Pitching should be fascinating, with the contrasting styles of Ryan Dennis and Chris Hughes presenting very different challenges for batters. Galway have runners and hitters capable of hurting any side and there will be plenty wondering whether Cathal Creaven might produce his first Senior home run. Limekiln’s challenge will be to shut down that running threat, while the Rapparees must stay calm and avoid being overawed by a side with an extraordinary haul of titles and All-Stars across the past two decades.
Referee:Seán Bailey of Michael Glavey’s will be behind the catcher for both Galway fixtures.
Galway Predictions
Mixed: Limekiln Men: Galway City Rapparees
Intermediate Championship Preview
The Intermediate campaign also begins on Sunday, with Dublin Metropolitans on the road in both Men’s and Women’s action
Kilmore ready for Intermediate test
Aidan Carr – Kilmore
The Intermediate Championship begins with an early start on the road for Dublin Metropolitans, whose men travel to Roscommon to face local favourites Kilmore, last year’s Junior Men’s All-Ireland runners-up.
With a full year of Intermediate experience behind them, Dublin Mets may look like favourites on paper. Even so, Kilmore should not be underestimated. Both teams bring quality players into this opener. The Mets can call on the Carley brothers, Jack Cheyne and Leonard Looney, all selected for the Leinster Interprovincials side. Kilmore, meanwhile, are represented by Aidan Carr, Breian Carroll, Mark Harrington and James Jamieson, who fill four of the five Junior spots on the Connacht Interprovincial panel.
Nerves are inevitable for Kilmore in their first Intermediate game following promotion, but home advantage should help settle them. With first pitch at 11am, this has the feel of one of the most interesting games of the opening weekend.
Referee: Breaffy star and Ard Chomhairle Development Officer Mark Jennings
Prediction: Kilmore to settle early and take the win
Castletown Liam Mellows host key Women’s opener
Also throwing in at 1pm is the first Intermediate Women’s game of 2026, as Dublin Metropolitans head to the picturesque Castletown Liam Mellows pitch in Wexford to face the 2023 All-Ireland Junior Ladies finalists.
Both teams are newly promoted to Intermediate and both will be eager to make an immediate statement in their new grade. With talented and capable players on each side, this could be one of the tightest contests of the weekend and may come down to who handles the occasion best.
Referee: GAA Rounders Leinster Representative, PJ Lalor of Myshall
Prediction: Dublin Mets to just edge it
A season worth following begins again
Although soggy pitches and poor weather have threatened to derail the opening week of Championship action, the seven matches that are set to go ahead should still provide more than enough excitement and drama to whet the appetite for what promises to be another thrilling GAA Rounders season.
If you are near Ballon, Castletown, Galway or Kilmore, this is a weekend well worth supporting in person. For those who cannot make it, results will be uploaded to the website and social media channels as soon as they come in.
As always, thanks go to the players, coaches, managers and club secretaries who keep the show on the road and make sure these matches take place. Thanks too to our referees for officiating, and míle buíochas to everyone who supports our game.
Follow GAA Rounders
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https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6270.jpeg13662048Joe Naughtonhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngJoe Naughton2026-04-15 09:40:402026-04-16 09:15:43GAA Rounders Preview 19 April 2026: Senior and Intermediate Championship Opener
Under 14 Championship Season Begins – Entries Closing Soon
The countdown is on for one of the most eagerly anticipated starts to the GAA Rounders calendar, as the Under 14 Boys and Girls Championships prepare to throw in for 2026 — and already there’s a real sense of momentum building in clubs right across the country.
For many young players, this competition marks their first real taste of championship rounders — the step up from blitz days and local games into something with real edge, real stakes, and lasting memories. It’s where rivalries begin to form, where reputations are built, and where future senior stars often first make their mark.
Provincial Championships Set the Tone
The action gets underway on Saturday, 9th May with provincial championships taking centre stage. Four venues will host what promises to be a brilliant day of juvenile sport:
Connacht – Michael Glaveys GAA Club, Roscommon Ulster – Mullahoran GAA Club, Cavan Leinster – Ballon GAA Club, Carlow Munster – St Senans GAA Club, Limerick
There’s always something special about these provincial days. Pitches buzzing from early morning, parents and mentors lining the sidelines, and young players togging out with a mix of nerves and excitement. For some, it’s about testing themselves against the strongest opposition in their province; for others, it’s simply the thrill of wearing the club colours on a bigger stage.
But make no mistake — there’s plenty on the line. A strong showing at provincial level can be crucial, not just for silverware, but for securing a favourable pathway into the All-Ireland series.
Munster to Host All-Ireland Finals
And this year, there’s an added layer of intrigue.
The All-Ireland Under 14 Finals will be hosted by St Senans GAA Club in Limerick, bringing the national spotlight back to Munster — a province that has seen a noticeable surge in rounders activity and development in recent seasons. It’s a timely recognition of the work being done on the ground, and it sets the stage for what should be a vibrant, well-supported finals day.
Where Champions Will Be Made
When those finals arrive, the tempo will lift again. The best of each province will come together, and the margins will tighten. Games at this level are often decided by the smallest moments — a sharp catch, a brave call on the bases, or a well-timed strike under pressure.
Two teams will leave Limerick as All-Ireland champions, etching their names into the first roll of honour for 2026. For those players, it’s something that will stay with them long after the summer fades.
Emo Set the Standard — Can They Do It Again?
Of course, all eyes will also be on last year’s benchmark setters. Emo GAA Club’s clean sweep of both the Boys and Girls titles in 2025 didn’t just turn heads — it set a standard. It was the foundation of a hugely successful season for the club, and they’ll return with the confidence, and expectation, that comes with being champions.
The question now is whether Emo can go back-to-back, or whether the chasing pack — no doubt strengthened and hungry — can close the gap. With finals on Munster soil, a few home counties will certainly fancy their chances of shaking things up.
Entries Closing Soon — Act Now
For now, though, the focus is simple: get in.
Entries are still open, but the window is closing fast. Clubs who want to be part of this year’s championship need to move quickly and ensure their teams are registered.
Because once that first ball is thrown in on May 9th, there’s no turning back. The 2026 juvenile championship season will be up and running — and for a new generation of players, the journey starts here.
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG-20260414-WA0020.jpg13091963Chiara Trenchhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngChiara Trench2026-04-14 17:15:032026-04-14 17:15:03Race to 2026 Begins for Under 14 Rounders Championships
GAA Rounders is pleased to confirm that the fixtures for the 2026 All-Ireland Championships across Senior, Intermediate and Junior grades have now been finalised and circulated to clubs nationwide.
The 2026 season represents the largest championship programme to date, with clubs from across the country set to compete in Men’s, Women’s and Mixed competitions. The schedule runs from April through to September and provides a clear national pathway from league stages to quarter-finals, semi-finals and All-Ireland Finals.
At Senior level, each championship will be played on a single-league basis, with the top four teams progressing to the semi-finals. In Intermediate, the Men’s competition will follow a full-league structure, while the Women’s and Mixed Championships will be played across two groups. Junior competitions will again feature a broader group structure to reflect strong entry numbers and continued growth throughout the country.
Official season structure: league stages will run through spring and summer, with knockout fixtures scheduled from late July onwards before the All-Ireland Finals in late August and September.
A championship season packed with quality and depth
There are strong storylines at every grade heading into the new season. In Senior Women, Breaffy will bid for an outstanding five-in-a-row, while the Mayo club will also be chasing a Senior Mixed three-in-a-row. The Senior Men’s Championship, meanwhile, looks one of the most competitive in years, with genuine strength spread across the field.
Senior spotlight
Breaffy, Carrickmacross Emmets, Erne Eagles, Glynn Barntown, Limekiln, Cúchulainn, Raheen and Galway City Rapparees ensure real depth in the top grade, particularly in what promises to be a fiercely contested Senior Men’s Championship.
Intermediate contenders
Kilmeena and Emo are expected to have strong seasons at Intermediate level, while St. Senan’s, St. Clare’s, Kilmore, Galway City Rapparees and Dublin Metropolitans all add further quality to the grade.
Junior teams to watch
In Junior Women, St. Senan’s, Kilmore and Myshall will attract attention, while Junior Men should see strong campaigns from Myshall and Galway City Rapparees. In Junior Mixed, Kilmore, Leighlinbridge and Garrymore look well placed, with several counties also welcoming new entrants.
Club depth across the country
Glynn Barntown, Carrickmacross Emmets, Galway City Rapparees, Inniskeen and Kilmeena are all entering four or more teams, reflecting the growing strength of club structures and player development within the code.
Galway Rapparees
Welcoming new clubs to the championship
The 2026 Championships also mark an important step forward for participation, with a number of new clubs entering the All-Ireland structure across different grades.
Women: Kilrush Askamore (Wexford) and Nobber (Meath)
Men: Na Gaeil Nua (Dublin)
Mixed: Clontuskert (Galway), Dunsany (Meath), Naomh Pól (Waterford) and Oulart The Ballagh (Wexford)
Their inclusion is a welcome sign of continued expansion and reinforces the positive momentum currently behind GAA Rounders at club level.
Na Gaeil Nua
Season timeline and key dates
Senior Championships: commence on Sunday 19 April
Junior Championships: commence on Sunday 10 May
League stages: run through April, May, June and July
Quarter-finals: where applicable, are scheduled for late July
Semi-finals: take place in August
All-Ireland Finals: are scheduled from late August into September
Among the headline dates are the Senior Women’s and Junior Women’s Finals at the National Games Development Centre in Abbotstown on 30 August, the Men’s Finals at Offaly GAA Centre of Excellence on 6 September, and the Mixed Finals at Mallow GAA on 13 September.
Opening fixtures to launch the campaign
The championship season gets under way with a number of high-profile ties. The opening Senior programme includes Cúchulainn against Erne Eagles in Men’s, Women’s and Mixed, Galway City Rapparees against Limekiln in Senior Men, Limekiln against The Heath in Senior Women and Limekiln vs Kilmeena in Senior Mixed.
At Intermediate and Junior level, the early rounds will immediately test squads across multiple counties, with a packed programme set to run throughout the spring and summer months.
Castletown Liam Mellows, Dublin Metropolitans, Elphin, Emo, Galway City Rapparees, Glynn Barntown, Inniskeen Grattans, Kilmeena, Michael Glavey’s, St. Clare’s
Intermediate Men
Dublin Metropolitans, Emo, Kilmeena, Kilmore, St. Clare’s, St. Senan’s
Intermediate Mixed
Dublin Metropolitans, Emo, Erne Eagles, Galway City Rapparees, Glynn Barntown, Gusserane, Michael Glavey’s, Raheen, St. Clare’s, St. Senan’s
Junior Championships
Junior Women
Athenry, Carrickmacross Emmets, Castleknock, Castletown Liam Mellows, Clonguish, Drumhowan, Glynn Barntown, Gusserane, Inniskeen Grattans, Kilanerin Ballyfad, Kildimo Pallaskenry, Kilmore, Kilrush Askamore, Knockainey, Leighlinbridge, Myshall, Na Piarsaigh, Nobber, St. Kieran’s, St. Martin’s, St. Senan’s, Skryne, Sporting Limerick
Junior Men
Castleknock, Carrickmacross Emmets, Elphin, Galway City Rapparees, Gusserane, Inniskeen Grattans, Myshall, Na Gaeil Nua, Na Piarsaigh, Sporting Limerick
Junior Mixed
Athenry, Ballinagore, Castleknock, Carrickmacross Emmets, Clontuskert, Dunsany, Elphin, Emo, Galway City Rapparees, Garrymore, Inniskeen Grattans, Kilmeena, Kilmore, Leighlinbridge, Myshall, Naomh Pól, Naomh Trea, Na Fianna, Na Piarsaigh, Oulart The Ballagh, Slaughtneil, Sporting Limerick, Wolfe Tones
Continued growth across the code
With hundreds of fixtures scheduled and participation continuing to rise, the 2026 All-Ireland Championships reflect the ongoing development of GAA Rounders across Ireland. The spread of teams across Senior, Intermediate and Junior grades, combined with the arrival of new clubs and the strength of established contenders, points to a season of real substance from opening day through to finals weekend.
Supporters are encouraged to follow official GAA Rounders channels throughout the season for fixture updates, results, reports and championship news.
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_8850.jpeg522800Joe Naughtonhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngJoe Naughton2026-03-29 19:20:152026-03-29 19:41:34GAA Rounders Fixtures 2026 Confirmed | Full Championship Schedule & Teams
GAA Rounders is proud to be represented in the 2026 Gaelic Games ‘Leading Provincial Females’ Programme, a prestigious leadership development initiative delivered by the GAA in partnership with Sport Ireland.
A total of 43 participants from 23 counties have been selected for the 12-month programme, which runs from February to November and is supported by the Sport Ireland Women in Sport Fund. The course is designed to support women aged 18+ in developing their leadership skills both on and off the field, combining face-to-face sessions with online learning across areas such as coaching, officiating, administration, and PR/media.
Strong Representation from GAA Rounders
Among those selected are two dedicated members of the GAA Rounders Ard Chomhairle — Shirley Lennon (National Secretary, Dunderry, Meath) and Treasurer Margaret Doyle (Kilrush Askamore, Wexford). Their inclusion highlights the growing recognition of the vital role Rounders plays within the wider Gaelic Games community.
Margaret Doyle, Kilrush Askamore shared her thoughts on being selected for the programme:
”I was delighted to be selected for the leading provincial females programme as it offers a valuable opportunity to further develop skills and gain new perspectives on supporting others. It will help strengthen communication, teamwork and decision-making, while also providing the benefit of shared learning”
”I look forward to applying these insights within my rounders club by supporting players, encouraging participation and contributing to a positive, inclusive team environment.”
Speaking about her experience so far, Shirley Lennon shared her enthusiasm for the programme:
“Serving as the National Secretary for GAA Rounders and Club Secretary for Royal Rounders, I am eager to refine my skills in volunteer management and effective leadership within an amateur sporting body. Day 1 was truly inspirational; it challenged us to analyse our individual leadership styles and identify specific areas for personal and professional growth.
It was a privilege to meet so many fantastic women – trailblazers who are not only leading their clubs but also performing the vital, often unseen, work that forms the backbone of the GAA. I am looking forward to the upcoming modules and am excited to apply these new insights to my dual roles at both club and national levels.”
Recognition from GAA Rounders Leadership
GAA Rounders President Paula Doherty also welcomed the news, highlighting the importance of strong female leadership within the association:
“I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to all participants selected for the 2026 Leading Provincial Females Programme. For GAA Rounders, strong female leadership has always been central to our growth, from the development of clubs to the rise in competitive standards nationwide. This programme represents an invaluable opportunity for women in GAA Rounders to enhance their confidence, strengthen their voice within our sport, and bring fresh leadership back to their teams and communities.
We are proud to see GAA Rounders represented in the 2026 cohort, and we look forward to the energy, innovation, and ambition these leaders will bring to our association.”
Developing Leaders for the Future
The programme includes a series of in-person sessions at the beginning, midpoint, and conclusion, alongside ongoing modules and webinars designed to deepen participants’ understanding of leadership. It offers a unique opportunity for women across Gaelic Games to connect, learn, and grow as leaders.
The inclusion of Shirley Lennon and Margaret Doyle marks an exciting step forward for GAA Rounders, reinforcing the association’s commitment to developing strong, capable leaders who will shape the future of the sport at both club and national level.
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FB_IMG_1771151509917.jpg560644Chiara Trenchhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngChiara Trench2026-03-21 16:43:052026-03-21 16:45:51GAA Rounders Representation in National Leadership Programme
Celebrating International Women’s Day Through the Family Ties Powering GAA Rounders
To wrap up our Women in Sport Week series, we celebrate the mothers, daughters, sisters, cousins and families whose stories show exactly why GAA Rounders remains one of the most inclusive and community-driven games in Ireland.
International Women’s Day — 8 March 2026 | GAA Rounders
As this special feature shows, Women in Sport is not just about medals, finals and silverware. It is also about legacy, belonging and the powerful family connections that keep clubs thriving from one generation to the next. From a remarkable three-generation sporting story in Knockainey, Limerick to the deep-rooted bonds that run through Glynn Barntown in Wexford, this is a celebration of the people who make Rounders what it is. It is also worth recognising the wider support network around these players — coaches, officials, parents, teammates and family members — whose commitment helps shape a welcoming and ambitious community for everybody involved.
Feature Story
The Carroll Legacy
Three generations of sporting commitment in Knockainey, Limerick.
Debbie Carroll is one of those figures who leaves a mark far beyond one code. A former inter-county camogie goalkeeper with National League and All-Ireland medals to her name, she also competed on the world stage in Tug of War and earned a World Championship silver medal.
Her contribution did not stop at playing. Debbie helped build sporting opportunities locally by founding both Knockainey LGFA in 2004 and Knockainey Rounders Club, creating pathways that would shape the next generation.
Lauren Flynn, née Carroll, followed that example. She represented Limerick in camogie, played a major role in helping establish the local ladies’ football club as a teenager, and continued to contribute as both a player and coach. Even after injury ended her own camogie career, the link with community sport remained strong.
The next generation has now arrived. Lauren’s daughter Amelia has officially joined Knockainey Rounders, carrying the family’s GAA tradition into a third generation. That is the kind of story Women in Sport Week should celebrate — not just individual achievement, but a legacy being passed on.
From founding clubs to coaching young players to watching the next generation take the field, these stories show that the real strength of Rounders is community.
Women in Sport Week 2026
Club Focus
Glynn Barntown: A Parish Bound by Rounders
One of the largest and most successful Rounders clubs in the country, Glynn Barntown continues to set the standard for how a club can unite families, generations and a whole community.
Based in the heart of South Wexford, Glynn Barntown has built something special. The club’s story stretches from U13 Féile champions to Senior All-Ireland Women’s finalists, from Go Games pioneers to a club capable of fielding six adult teams in the 2025 All-Ireland Championship. That does not happen by accident. It happens when a parish buys in, when families stay involved, and when players see the club as part of their identity.
Below are some of the family ties that make Glynn Barntown such a powerful example of what Rounders can be at club level.
Family Ties
Mums & Daughters
Shared jerseys, shared pitches and shared pride. Few sights sum up community sport better than mothers and daughters representing the same club.
Catriona & Erin Walsh
Emma & Alisha Reddy
Family connection
Jenny & Katie Kidd
Family Ties
Sisters
Sisters bring a different kind of connection to any team — instinctive understanding, loyalty and a competitive edge built over years.
Yvonne & Ann Hanley
Caroline, Mary & Cathy Roche
Karen & Nicola Byrne
Extended Family
Cousins, Households and Club Life
The strongest clubs are often built on more than teams. They are built on households, relatives and generations all pulling in the same direction.
Jemma Kavanagh & Conor Roche
Ollie & Shauna Kearns, Ciara, Dylan & Josh Roche
Aileen Kelly with Maggie, Sean & Liam
Why this matters
Clubs talk all the time about culture, but this is what culture looks like in reality: people staying involved, bringing children with them, cheering from the sideline, taking on committee roles and making the club feel like an extension of family life.
Glynn Barntown’s strength is not just in titles or finals appearances. It is in the fact that the club clearly means something across generations.
Rounders Relationships
Rounders Power Couples
Behind every strong club is support on and off the pitch. These pairings show how family life and club life often become one and the same.
Ann-Marie Dunphy & Daithi White
Paddy & Sheena King
Gary & Sinead Boland
Steph & Mick Kelly
A fitting Women in Sport Week finale
These images do more than show relationships. They show the network behind every successful club — the encouragement, the loyalty and the sense of belonging that keep people coming back year after year.
A community worth celebrating
International Women’s Day is often a moment to spotlight elite performance, but this feature is a reminder that the foundations of women’s sport are often built much closer to home. They are built by mothers introducing daughters to a club, by sisters staying involved together, by cousins wearing the same colours, and by families who give their time year after year.
In Knockainey and Glynn Barntown, those connections are impossible to miss. They are a huge part of what makes GAA Rounders such a special sporting community, and exactly why these stories deserve to be seen, shared and celebrated.
https://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4853.jpeg16721179Joe Naughtonhttps://www.gaarounders.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GAA-Rounders-Logo-1.pngJoe Naughton2026-03-08 10:47:452026-03-08 11:21:34Celebrating Internationalt Women’s Day Through the Family Ties Powering GAA Rounders
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