New for 2026 – Summer Skills -Register your interest now!

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GAA Rounders Welcomes American Baseball Coach to Ireland for National Rounders Skills Clinic

GAA Rounders is teaming up with Emerald Diamond International (EDI) to host a national Rounders Skills Clinic in Laois led by American baseball coach AJ LaMonda, bringing more than a decade of high-level coaching experience to Rounders players and coaches from clubs across Ireland.

Coach LaMonda is set to bring a wealth of experience to our summer skills program

Partnership building connections

The partnership reflects EDI’s ongoing mission to build connections between American baseball and Irish sport, and GAA Rounders’ continued investment in player development at club level.

“We’re delighted to welcome AJ to Ireland and to be working alongside Emerald Diamond International on this initiative. While Rounders and baseball are distinct sports, they share many of the same core skills, and learning from coaches with AJ’s experience will be a real benefit to our players and coaches. We hope this is the beginning of a long-term partnership focused on developing young players and supporting clubs across the country,” said Craig Davis, Chair of the GAA Rounders youth committee.

The clinic will focus on fundamentals that translate directly between the two sports—including hitting mechanics, fielding technique, base running, and game awareness—giving players and coaches direct access to coaching methods honed at the high school, collegiate, and national team levels in the United States.

Coach LaMonda, brings extensive Southern California high school coaching experience, including stints at Servite, Orange Lutheran, and St. John Bosco, most recently as Head Coach at Damien High School in La Verne. A former first baseman at Loyola Marymount University, he has also worked as a scout for USA Baseball. Before travelling to Laois, Coach LaMonda will deliver a series of baseball clinics in Kinsale.

The programme will consist of four clinic sessions across two days, 28 and 29 July, with participating clubs allocated to sessions to ensure the best use of coaching time and to maximise the experience for every player.

Register your interest 

Applications are now invited from Rounders clubs across Ireland. Participating clubs will be selected based on a number of criteria designed to ensure they can maximise the long-term benefits of the programme. Each participating club will also receive a generous equipment package, kindly sponsored by Emerald Diamond International, to support the continued development of players within their clubs.

Further details on the venue and the club application process will be announced shortly. Clubs interested in participating or seeking further information should contact GAA Rounders Juvenile Secretary, Cat Carty, at juvenilesecretary.rounders@gaa.ie.

About Emerald Diamond International

Emerald Diamond International (EDI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organisation dedicated to growing and supporting youth baseball in Ireland while celebrating the contributions of the Irish to the game of baseball in America.

About GAA Rounders

GAA Rounders is one of the four founding codes of the Gaelic Athletic Association, established under the GAA’s original 1884 charter alongside hurling, Gaelic football, and handball. The sport is governed nationally by the GAA Rounders National Council and continues to grow through investment in club development, coach education, and youth participation.

GAA Rounders Preview – 28 June 2026

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GAA Rounders Preview – 28 June 2026

With no scheduled adult matches taking place last Sunday – due to the U15 Feile in Portlaoise – we’re back at it full strength this weekend.
Although some might say that Croke Park will be the place to be on Saturday and Sunday, Rounders fans know that Tymon Park – hosting eight Junior, Intermediate and Senior games on Sunday afternoon – is the go-to destination for a fantastic afternoon of sport.
With multiple games in Roscommon, Laois and Galway and matches in Monaghan and Carlow, it’s set to be a busy Sunday.
Let’s have a look and see what games are in store nationwide this weekend.

Sunday’s Senior Games

Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin Teams: Limekiln & Erne Eagles
Limekiln will host Erne Eagles for Senior Women’s, Mixed and Men’s games. Starting at 12.30pm the Women will take to the pitch first. Limekiln’s newly strengthened 2026 side have won three of their four games this year while Erne Eagles have won two, lost two and drawn one. With home advantage, will Limekiln make it up to second on the table by Sunday evening? Both clubs’ Mixed teams will play at 2pm. Both evenly matched with one win after four games, the winner of this will move nicely up the table with only two games left to play this year. At 3.30pm it will be the turn of the Men from both clubs to face each other. Eagles are five from five while Limekiln have also played five but with less successful results. Eagles will be keen to keep their clean slate while Limekiln will hope that a game on home turf will give them the advantage.
Predictions: Women – Limekiln; Mixed – Limekiln; Men – Erne Eagles Referee: Glynn Barntown’s Sarah McGuinness
Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin Teams: Glynn Barntown & Kilmeena Our second Senior Mixed second clash of the day is between second from top of the table, Glynn Barntown, and second from bottom of the table, Kilmeena. While Kilmeena have played one game less than their Wexford opponents, they have only won one game this season and will be looking to improve on that this Sunday. Prediction: Glynn Barntown Referee: GAA Rounders Vice-President Michael Dowling
 
Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin  Teams: Galway Rapparees & Glynn Barntown While Limekiln and Erne Eagles will square up on Pitch 2 at 3.30pm, another exciting Men’s game will be starting on Pitch 1 when Wexford’s Glynn Barntown meet Galway City Rapparees. Both playing their fifth game of the season, both having won two and lost two, this match will decide third place in the table on Sunday evening and give the winners a fighting chance of qualifying out of the group into our Semi-finals on 16 August. Prediction: Galway City Rapparees Referee: GAA Rounders Vice-President Michael Dowling
Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin Teams: Glynn Barntown & Inniskeen Grattans Commencing the day’s Intermediate action in Tymon Park will be the ladies of Glynn Barntown and Inniskeen Grattans in a bottom of the table clash. The Wexford side are only out for the second time this year, while Inniskeen have played twice and won once. Prediction: Inniskeen Grattans Referee: Limekiln’s Amanda Hoxha
Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin Teams: Dublin Metropolitans & Kilmeena Before Kilmeena’s Senior side take on Glynn Barntown, their Intermediate men will face home side Dublin Metropolitans. Another bottom of the table clash, both have played three times this season with the Mets slightly ahead with one win. Kilmeena showed promise in their last two games against Kilmore and St. Clare’s – they’ll be hoping that this will be the day their luck turns. Prediction: Kilmeena Referee: Limekiln’s Amanda Hoxha
Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin Teams: Inniskeen Grattans & Na Gaeil Nua Starting the day’s proceedings in Tymon Park and the only Junior Match of the day in Dublin, Monaghan’s Inniskeen’s established Junior Men’s team take on Dublin newcomers Na Gaeil Nua. Neither side has played much yet this season, but Na Gaeil Nua have one win in the bag and will be hopeful of beating a second Monaghan side this month. Prediction: Na Gaeil Nua Referee: Limekiln’s Christy Hughes Snr
Venue: Kilmore, Roscommon Teams: Kilmore, Skryne, Wolfe Tones, Michael Glavey’s & St. Senan’s Hosting a trio of Junior games in Roscommon on Sunday from 11am, Kilmore will be taking part in both Junior Women and Junior Mixed. Women will start the day when Meath-side Skryne take on the hosts. Both teams are unbeaten this year, but Kilmore have been the more impressive side all season and should win this one comfortably. Prediction: Kilmore
Next up will be Kilmore’s Junior Mixed side against Belfast’s Wolfe Tones. While Wolfe Tones won their last two games, Kilmore will provide a greater challenge, and their skilful fielding and batting should mean that the game goes the home team’s way. Prediction: Kilmore
At 3pm the hosts can take a break watch fellow Roscommon-side Michael Glavey’s fight it out with newly promoted to Intermediate Mixed Limerick team St. Senan’s. Both teams have played twice this season, but Senan’s have won once. Glavey’s will be hoping that Sunday is their first victory of the year. Prediction: St. Senan’s Referee: Breaffy’s Mark Jennings
Another trio of Junior Mixed games will take place in Co. Laois from 11am when hosts Emo open the day facing Carlow side Myshall. Both sides have three games under their belts this season, but Myshall remain unbeaten and are slightly ahead on points. Fresh from a very successful weekend in Tymon Park on 14 June, Emo will be hoping to keep this run going. Prediction: Emo
At 1pm Emo will host Meath side Dunsany in their first away game of their first season. Yet to register a win, Dunsany will hope to prove they have what it takes to beat the Laois side on home ground. Prediction: Emo
The final match of the day will be Dunsany vs Waterford newcomers Naomh Pol. Although new to the Championship in 2026 Naomh Pol have performed very well so far this year, winning two from four and sitting third on the table. Prediction: Naomh Pol
Finally, two standalone Junior games will take place on Sunday; in Carrickmacross – when the home side take on Derry’s Naomh Trea in Mixed – and in Carlow – when Leighlinbridge’s and Gusserane’s Women’s teams meet. Predictions: Carrickmacross Emmets and Leighlinbridge
Our final set of Junior games on Sunday will be in Galway when Galway City Rapparees host Junior Men’s and Mixed games featuring Limerick and Galway teams. At 1.45pm Galway City Rapparees Junior Mixed team will take on Limerick’s Na Piarsaigh. Both sides have played twice and won twice so the winner of Sunday’s game will move to the top of the table with only one more match to play this season. Prediction: Galway City Rapparees
The second match will be the same clubs’ Junior Men’s teams. Rapparees are unbeaten this year and still have a game in hand while Na Piarsaigh must win this game to top the table and make it straight to Semi-finals. Prediction: Galway City Rapparees
Hard to believe but we’re nearly at the end of our Junior league games for 2026 with only two more Sundays of Junior matches. Some teams have already booked their places in quarter-finals but whether that’s in first, second or third place is yet to be decided in many cases.
With a lot still to play for, our Junior teams will be giving it their all and hoping to record their first, or last, win of the season.
Intermediate and Senior games will continue into August so there’s still some time for teams to cement their successes or start a winning streak!
As always, sincere thanks to our Referees who go out week after week to officiate at games – without their dedication and commitment, our Championship just couldn’t happen.
Thanks also to Club Secretaries, Team Managers and players for giving it their all every week – you’re all the reason why Rounders is the wonderful sport it is. Mile buiochas!

gaarounders.ie facebook.com/GaaRounders/ @gaaroundersoff

Féile na nGael report

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GAA Rounders Féile 2026: A Day of Outstanding Rounders in Laois

 

GAA Rounders was once again proud to be part of Féile na nGael, with Laois hosting a fantastic day of action, skill, sportsmanship and drama across the Girls, Mixed and Boys competitions.

 

Under blazing sunshine and blue skies, teams from across the country delivered a showcase of what GAA Rounders has to offer, with thrilling games and moments that will live long in the memory.

 

Girls Competition: Athenry Claim Féile Glory

 

The Girls competition culminated in a hard-fought final between The Heath of Laois and Athenry of Galway.

 

In a best-of-three format, with each match consisting of four innings, both teams battled through the heat to produce a fitting final. The quality of play, determination and composure on show was a credit to both sides.

 

After a tightly contested series, it was Athenry who emerged victorious to claim the Féile title.

The Girls champions. Athenry (Galway) GAA Rounders squad pictured with Diarmuid Cahill, Chairperson of John West National GAA Féile Competitions and Paula Doherty (GAA Rounders President)
Pic: Alf Harvey

Mixed Competition: Drama Until the Final Out

 

The Mixed competition provided twists and turns from the very beginning.

 

Erne Eagles of Cavan, Glynn Barntown of Wexford and Elphin of Roscommon all finished the group stage tied on points. With head-to-head results unable to separate the teams, qualification came down to average runs conceded, with Glynn Barntown missing out on a place in the final by the narrowest of margins.

 

The final raised the bar even further on what had already been a tournament full of high-quality Rounders.

 

A special mention must go to both pitchers, who were asked to pitch from the distance most adult women are required to pitch from and performed brilliantly, helping create a contest where every run had to be earned.

 

The game ebbed and flowed, with just one run separating the teams heading into the final innings.

 

Erne Eagles showed remarkable composure, scoring five runs when down to their final out and seven in total, setting Elphin a target of six to force extra innings, or seven to claim the title.

 

Elphin responded with patience and skill at the plate, getting runners on base and creating scoring opportunities. However, every score came at a cost, with excellent catches in centre outfield and a rocket throw to first base keeping the pressure on.

 

As Elphin closed in, the Erne Eagles pitcher held her nerve, drawing a third ball foul for the final out at exactly the right moment and securing the Féile title for Cavan.

The Mixed Team champions. Erne Eagles (Cavan) GAA Rounders pictured with Diarmuid Cahill, Chairperson of John West National GAA Féile Competitions and Paula Doherty (GAA Rounders President) at the John West Féile na nGael finals
Pic: Alf Harvey

Boys Competition: New Champions Crowned

 

The Boys competition had plenty to capture the imagination.

The Michael Glaveys (Roscommon) GAA Rounders squad
Pic: Alf Harvey

 

Michael Glaveys of Roscommon and defending champions Emo of Laois entered as early favourites, joined by last year’s Under 14 runners-up Na Fianna of Dublin, Rounders stalwarts The Heath of Laois, and newcomers St Fintans/Our Lady’s Island of Wexford.

 

The group stages were played at a blistering pace in the heat, with results not always following the form book.

 

St Fintans quickly announced themselves as a team to watch, combining explosive batting, aggressive base running and impressive pitching and fielding to record four wins.

 

The Heath continued to show the strength of their Rounders tradition, defeating Na Fianna and pushing every opponent to the limit, giving a glimpse of what is to come from their return to the game.

 

Na Fianna battled bravely throughout, but an injury to their regular pitcher in their third game made their challenge even more difficult.

 

The group stage’s defining fixture saw Emo and Michael Glaveys meet in what became a semi-final showdown for a place in the Féile final.

The Emo (Laois) GAA Rounders squad.
Pic: Alf Harvey

 

In a “blink and you’d miss it” contest, Emo secured a 4-2 victory in a game dominated by exceptional fielding from both sides.

 

Shield Final: The Heath Add Another Honour

 

The Shield Final saw Michael Glaveys face The Heath, and both teams produced a feast of Rounders.

 

Two home runs from Adam Bailey of Michael Glaveys were among the highlights, but The Heath’s consistency proved decisive as they secured the Féile Shield title and added another honour to the club’s already impressive GAA Rounders roll of honour.

The Heath (Laois) receive the boys Féile shield trophy. Pictured with Diarmuid Cahill, Chairperson of the National Féile committee and GAA Rounders president Paula Doherty

Cup Final: St Fintans Make History

 

The Cup Final between Emo and St Fintans/Our Lady’s Island delivered another high-quality contest, with pressure moments, home runs and excellent pitching on display.

 

The Wexford side managed to find more gaps in the Laois defence and set Emo a target of seven runs in the final innings.

 

Scoring against St Fintans had proven difficult for every team throughout the afternoon, with precision bowling and an outfield that seemed capable of picking the ball out of the sky.

 

In the end, seven runs was enough of a cushion, as St Fintans/Our Lady’s Island completed a remarkable Féile journey, claiming the title in their first year playing Rounders.

Captain of St Fintans/Our Lady’s Island receives the boys Féile trophy from Chairperson of National Féile committee, Diarmuid Cahill and GAA Rounders president Paula Doherty

A Celebration of Rounders

 

GAA Rounders would like to extend its thanks to the National Féile Committee, Laois GAA and everyone who contributed to making this year’s participation in Féile na nGael possible.

 

The day showcased everything that makes GAA Rounders special — skill, inclusion, competition, friendship and outstanding sportsmanship.

 

GAA Rounders is proud to be part of an event that celebrates participation and provides a stage for young players from across the country to experience the joy of the game.

St Fintans/ Our Lady’s Island (Wexford) receive the trophy from National Féile Committee Chairperson Diarmuid Cahill and GAA Rounders President Paula Doherty

Monaghan ready to “Go”

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Monaghan Ready to Go as Go Games for Rounders Launches

 

Monaghan’s team of Go Games volunteers are ready to bring rounders to a new generation.

Monaghan GAA Rounders is ready to Go this weekend as the county launches its new Go Games for Rounders schedule, bringing the fun, excitement and inclusiveness of Rounders to the youngest members of the community.

The initiative is being driven by a dedicated team of volunteers who are ready to bring the programme to life, creating opportunities for children to experience the game in a fun, player-focused environment and helping clubs introduce a new generation to one of the GAA’s original sports.

The first Go Games for Rounders blitz takes place this Saturday, 20th June at Platinum Tanks Park, with clubs and children ready to get involved and enjoy the action.

Francis Walsh said: “I am proud to support this initiative in Monaghan. The commitment of the volunteer team ready to drive Go Games for Rounders forward is fantastic to see. Bringing the game to our youngest members gives children the chance to enjoy themselves, learn new skills and experience the teamwork and friendships that come with sport.”

Kim Thornton added: “The equipment pack is a brilliant resource and makes getting started so simple. I can’t wait to see children out playing, developing their skills and experiencing all the benefits that Rounders has to offer.”

Monaghan is showing the way with Go Games for Rounders, giving young players the opportunity to discover the game, make memories and be part of its future.

Under 13 Féile – Review and results

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GAA Rounders Under 13 Féile 2026 – A Day of Outstanding Action

The future of GAA Rounders was on full display at the Under 13 Féile, with teams travelling from Laois, Carlow, Dublin and Galway for a day of brilliant games, brilliant skill, and plenty of drama.

From the first pitch, it was clear that this would be a Féile to remember.

Boys Féile – A Competition Full of Drama

The boys competition featured Emo (Laois), Myshall (Carlow), Ioma (Laois), Kevin’s (Dublin) and Cuchulainn (Carlow).

The round robin stage produced some fantastic games, with every match capable of swinging either way. Strong batting, excellent fielding and some impressive defensive plays ensured there was very little between the teams throughout the day.

Eventually, the Féile final would see Emo take on Kevin’s, while Myshall and Cuchulainn would meet in the Shield final.

Myshall Claim the Shield

Myshall (Carlow) take home the Féile shield title

The Shield final saw both teams find their rhythm with the bat, producing a high-scoring contest. In the end, it was Myshall who took home the Shield title after an excellent performance.

Emo Edge a Classic Féile Final

Emo retain the Under 13 Féile title

The Féile Championship final brought together two teams who had earned their place there.

Kevin’s had shown all day that they were not there simply to make up the numbers. They were strong in defence, composed under pressure and dangerous with the bat.

Emo came into the final with a proud history in this competition, but they knew nothing would be handed to them. All-Ireland titles are earned, not given.

And both teams had to earn every single run.

The final innings arrived with Kevin’s holding a narrow lead, leaving Emo needing something special to turn the game around. That moment arrived through Barry McDonald, whose home run was enough to put Emo ahead and secure the Féile title.

Emo player, Barry McDonald receives the match ball from referee Sarah McGuiness

Girls Féile – A High Quality Line-Up

The girls competition had a strong local feel, with three Laois teams involved — Emo, The Heath and tournament newcomers Borris Ossory Kilcotton. Cuchulainn of Carlow and Athenry of Galway completed a brilliant line-up.

Borris Ossory Kilcotton showed throughout the day that they could trouble anyone with the bat. Cuchulainn showed that their defensive organisation could match anyone.

The Heath, returning to underage Féile competition after a number of years away, proved they still knew their way around a Rounders pitch.

Athenry and Emo, both highly decorated in recent years, arrived with the reputation of teams to beat — and both would prove to be every bit as competitive as expected.

Round Robin Sets Up Exciting Finals

The round robin did not disappoint. Big hits found gaps, strong defensive teams shut down ambitious base running, and the standard of Rounders on display was excellent.

The Heath Take Shield Honours

The Heath(Laois) win the U13 Féile shield title

The Shield final was a local battle between two sides who know each other well — Emo and The Heath.

The game started with plenty of scoring, but as the innings progressed The Heath began to take control. A strong final innings saw them slow down Emo’s batting order and hold on for a well-earned Shield victory.

Cuchulainn Continue Remarkable Season

Cuchulainn (Carlow) receive the u13 girls Féile title

The Féile Championship final was a repeat of the recent Under 14 final, with Athenry meeting Cuchulainn.

Athenry have built a reputation as one of the toughest defensive teams to score against, while Cuchulainn have developed a defensive system built on communication, awareness and trust.

The final was a tense and tactical contest. Outs came quickly, chances were taken, and before long the game moved into the final innings.

With outstanding coordination between their pitcher, second base and short stop, and a match-winning performance from Eabha O’Byrne, they kept Athenry scoreless in the final innings to secure another Féile title and another set of All-Ireland medals for Carlow.

It is becoming a remarkable season for Cuchulainn.

Eabha O’Byrne receives the match ball from referee Craig Davis

A Huge Thank You to Emo GAA

A special mention must go to Emo GAA for their tireless work hosting the event.

The venue was immaculate, the hospitality was exceptional, and they even managed to arrange some brilliant weather to match the quality of the Rounders on display.

Thank you for your continued support of our underage competitions and for helping make days like this possible.

GAA Rounders Championship Preview: 28 Matches Scheduled Across Ireland This Weekend

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Preview 14 June 2026

Welcome to the busiest weekend of the season so far with 28 matches taking place up and down the country. In addition to all the great adult games in store over the weekend, on Saturday, the U13 Féile, our flagship Juvenile event, will take place in Emo, Co. Laois all day Saturday and anyone in the area is encouraged to attend and watch some of our youngest players give it their all in Boys’ and Girls’ Competitions. We have Championship games on Saturday and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday – it’s going to be some feast of Rounders so let’s get started and see who will be playing where and when.

Saturday

Venue: Slaughtneil, Derry
Teams: Slaughtneil, Naomh Trea & Wolfe Tones

Three cracking Junior Mixed matches will take place in Slaughtneil in Derry from 11.30am when three Ulster clubs each play two matches and Naomh Trea, Slaughtneil and Wolfe Tones all meet each other. All three are currently shoring up the bottom of Junior Group B’s table with Wolfe Tones and Slaughtneil both having played two games and Naomh Trea only out for the second time this year. Two wins for 2025 quarter-finalists Wolfe Tones would slide them up to second position on the table and give them a chance to qualify out of the group.

Predictions: Wolfe Tones to beat Slaughtneil and Naomh Trea. Slaughtneil to beat Naomh Trea.

Referee: Shirley Lennon

Sunday’s Senior Games

Venue: Mullahoran, Cavan
Teams: Erne Eagles & Breaffy

The Mayo hard to beat teams of Breaffy will arrive in Cavan on Sunday morning eager to continue their winning streaks and outperform Erne Eagles. The day starts with the Men’s match at 11.30am and this promises to be an excellent display of equally matched Rounders brilliance. Expect outstanding performances from the always reliable Shane Sheridan, Mark Jennings, Colm Jordan and Ger Clerkin to name a few. Darryl Dolan’s pitching this year has been steadily getting back to his best form and this has the potential to be our match of the day.

Following that, the Mixed teams take to the pitch. Breaffy have won five from five, Eagles have lost two of the three they’ve played. Breaffy would appear to have the edge, but Eagles can never be written off.

The final Senior match in Mullahoran will be between both clubs’ Women’s teams. Again, Breaffy are four from four while Eagles have won two, drawn one and lost one. Will home advantage give Erne Eagles the boost to take this match?

Predictions: Men – Erne Eagles; Mixed – Breaffy; Women – Breaffy

Referees: Men & Mixed – Michael Dowling; Women – Seán Bailey

Venue: Glynn Barntown, Wexford
Teams: Glynn Barntown & Cúchulainn

Starting at 12.30pm with Senior Men, Glynn Barntown welcome Carlow’s Cúchulainn for three games. Both teams have played three times this season, but Glynn Barntown have won twice and will hope that another victory this week will keep their semi-finals hopes alive. No doubt Cúchulainn will be thinking the same!

The Mixed teams play at 2pm and again, the Wexford side has fared better this year so far. Finally, at 3.30pm the Women’s teams will line out and Glynn Barntown could really do with a win to ensure that their Championship dreams stay alive.

Predictions: Men – Glynn Barntown; Mixed – Glynn Barntown: Women – Cúchulainn

Referee: Danielle Keane

Intermediate Action

Venue: Mullahoran, Cavan
Teams: Erne Eagles & Michael Glavey’s

Following the Senior extravaganza, two Intermediate teams will close the day’s action when the home side take on Roscommon’s Michael Glavey’s. Both teams have lost their opening match of this year’s Championship and will be anxious to make their way from the bottom of the table.

Prediction: Erne Eagles

Referee: Shane Sheridan

Venue: Tymon Park, Dublin
Teams: Dublin Metropolitans & Emo

Dublin Metropolitans’ home ground for this year is Tymon Park and on Sunday they welcome Laois side Emo for three Intermediate games. The Men start the day at 11am and Emo, playing their penultimate game in this group, will be keen to put last week’s defeat to St. Clare’s behind them and move to top of the table.

The Mixed teams meet at 1pm and while this is Mets last Mixed group game, Emo have only played once, and won. Mets have only lost once so will be keen to win this as well and hope their place as table toppers stays secure for another six weeks.

At 3pm the Women’s teams take to the pitch and a win for either will put them joint top of the table with one match left to play.

Prediction: Men – Emo; Mixed- Emo; Women – Emo

Referee: Chris Hughes

Venue: Elphin, Roscommon
Teams: Elphin & St. Clare’s

St. Clare’s will be busy on Sunday playing matches in two Connacht counties. The ladies’ day starts at 12pm in Elphin, where they’ll take on the newly promoted side. Fresh from great wins last Sunday, both sides should be confident but Intermediate Women’s Group B is at the exciting stage where if Elphin win, they top the table with 18 points but if St. Clare’s win their two games on Sunday they top the table with 18 points. It’s highly likely that on-form Galway City Rapparees will ultimately come out on top of this group so Sunday’s matches could well decide who will come in second and qualify for a semi-final place.

Prediction: St. Clare’s

Referee: Shirley Lennon

Venue: Kilmeena, Mayo
Teams: Kilmeena, St. Clare’s & Kilmore

As soon as the Elphin match finishes, St. Clare’s will be on the road again to Kilmeena to play another Women’s game against the Mayo ladies. Kilmeena have only played once this season and lost but St. Clare’s result against Elphin may well predict their mood coming into this game – and the result. They have what it takes to win but then so have Kilmeena if they play at their best.

The ladies get a chance to sit and watch while St. Clare’s Men then take on the home side. After a winning performance in terrible weather conditions last Sunday, St. Clare’s should be confident they can do this.

Last game of the day is another Men’s match between Kilmeena and Kilmore. The Roscommon side hit the ground running in opening weekend comprehensively defeating Dublin Metropolitans but have struggled in their two games since. Another loss this weekend will make qualification from the group less certain, so they’ll be aiming to win and make knockouts in their first year as an Intermediate side.

Prediction: Women – St. Clare’s; Men – St. Clare’s; Men – Kilmore

Referee: Shirley Lennon

Junior Round-up

Venue: Skryne, Meath
Teams: Skryne, Carrickmacross Emmets, Na Gaeil Nua & Gusserane

Three matches in Skryne get underway at 10.30am with the home side’s Junior Women taking on Carrickmacross Emmets. Table toppers Carrickmacross will hope to win this and beat a Skryne side who have yet to be tested this season.

At 12.30pm the Carrickmacross men take on Dublin side Na Gaeil Nua. Carrickmacross’s pitcher and catcher team of Paul Boylan and Darren Hughes have played brilliantly all season and if they, and Carrick’s strong outfielders, can manage to keep that going this Sunday, they can overcome the super batting of Na Gaeil Nua.

Carrickmacross will only have a short while to recover before they have to then take on Junior Day Men’s winners Gusserane in another Men’s match. Performing strongly in Men and Mixed this year, it will be hard to predict which of the two teams will come out on top…but we’ll try!

Prediction: Carrickmacross Emmets to win all three

Referee: Amanda Hoxha

Venue: Nobber
Teams: Nobber & Clonguish

Nobber will host Longford side Clonguish at 3pm and for a brand new to the Championship side, only formed five months ago, the Meath ladies are certainly impressive. Narrowly losing their first match and then winning their third and drawing with veteran side Drumhowan last weekend, it’s clear that there’s talent in abundance in this squad. Clonguish have struggled with numbers and have had to concede two matches this season but it’s great to see them back again this year and working hard.

Prediction: Nobber

Referee: Colm Birdy

Venue: Oulart The Ballagh
Teams: Oulart The Ballagh, Myshall & Castletown Liam Mellows

At 11.30am in Wexford, new team Oulart The Ballagh take on Carlow neighbours Myshall in a Junior Mixed match. Myshall have been performing well all season and look strong but for their first year in the Championship, Oulart have done well and their excellent result at Junior Day will have given them confidence in their abilities.

At 1.30pm Myshall’s ladies will play Castletown Liam Mellows’ newly formed Junior team. The Wexford ladies have struggled in their first year out but their recent win over Kilrush Askamore shows their talent. Myshall are two from two and will be hoping to make that three from three.

Prediction: Mixed – Myshall; Women – Myshall

Referee: Cathy Kearns

Venue: Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway
Teams: Galway City Rapparees & Na Piarsaigh

The two table topping teams will meet at 1pm in Galway in the first of their home and away games this season. Both have won both their games so far although Rapparees’ run rate is higher due to the 57 runs they’ve scored over both games.

Prediction: Galway City Rapparees

Referee: Jay Hall

Venue: Garrymore, Mayo
Teams: Garrymore & Na Piarsaigh

One game done and then Na Piarsaigh will be on the road to Mayo to meet Garrymore for a Junior Mixed game. This is only the second game this season for both sides with both taking the win in their first outing.

Prediction: Na Piarsaigh

Referee: Craig Davis

Venue: Ballybrown, Limerick
Teams: Sporting Limerick, St. Kieran’s, St. Senan’s & Knockainey

Sporting Limerick will host three Junior Women’s games on Sunday from 10am when Knockainey travel to take on St. Senan’s. While St. Senan’s is a newly formed team this year, they can rely on experienced players like 2025 Junior All-Star Louise Kelly and it would be fair to assume that they’ll have what it takes to win this match.

At 12pm St. Kieran’s will meet home side Sporting Limerick. Performing well this year, opening the season with a win against Athenry, St. Kieran’s will be favourites to win this.

Finally, at 2pm, Sporting Limerick will be on the pitch again to play St. Senan’s. Again, on paper, St. Senan’s would appear the stronger side and the more likely to take the win.

Prediction: St. Senan’s, St. Kieran’s & St. Senan’s

Referee: Michael Sheahan

With no adult games taking place on Sunday 21st – due to the U15 National Féile in Laois GAA Centre of Excellence in Portlaoise – this Sunday is your big chance to get out, watch some excellent Rounders and support our players. With games from Derry to Wexford, Dublin to Mayo and many place in between, there’s never been a better opportunity to grab your camping chair, pack a picnic, put on some sunscreen and immerse yourself in our favourite game for several hours. Wherever you watch your games, we hope you enjoy them! Ádh mór to all our players!

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Cavan run second Go Games blitzz

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Cavan Runs Another Successful Go Games Blitz

 

The afternoon may have brought grey skies and rain, but spirits remained high in Mullahoran on Saturday 6th June as Cavan hosted its second Go Games for Rounders blitz of the year.

Getting to grips with it.

Young players from across the county braved the elements to enjoy an action-packed day of Rounders, proving that a little rain is no match for the excitement of the game. The Go Games format provided the perfect opportunity for children to learn new skills, build confidence and experience the fun of Rounders in a positive and inclusive environment.

Fantastic atmosphere 

Players from Mullahoran GFC, Lacken GFC, Lavey GFC, Ballyhaise GFC, Gowna GFC and Ballinagh GFC all took part, with every club contributing to a fantastic atmosphere. There were brilliant catches, determined batting displays and plenty of enthusiastic support from teammates and spectators alike throughout the afternoon.

“To see kids coming out and enjoying the game in this weather is amazing,” remarked Amanda Fitzsimmons, Cavan Go Games for Rounders Champion. “The smiles on their faces tell you everything you need to know. The players threw themselves into every game and it was fantastic to see so many clubs represented.”

 

As Go Games for Rounders continues to grow across the county, more and more young players are discovering the enjoyment of one of the GAA’s most accessible and exciting sports.

Go Games volunteers on hand when needed

Get involved

Go Games events are taking place in Cavan every month. Clubs, coaches and parents interested in learning more or getting involved can email gogames.cavan.rounders@gaa.ie for further information.

GAA Rounders Honoured at oneills.com GAA World Games Launch

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The oneills.com GAA World Games launch took place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, at the SETU Arena, Waterford, and GAA Rounders was honoured to be officially invited to take part.

The day began in Waterford city with official photographs of the World Games ambassadors—Limerick hurler Dan Morrissey, Galway footballer Shane Walsh, Cork camóg Saoirse McCarthy, Tyrone footballer Sarah Donnelly, and Galway handball player Ciana Ní Churraoin—alongside GAA Presidents Jarlath Burns, Paula Doherty (Rounders), Brian Molloy (Camogie), and Trina Murray (LGFA). This was followed by the official launch in the SETU Arena Conference Room.

The games will take place in Waterford from 13–17 July and will feature football, hurling, camogie, and handball. Marking our first time to be officially involved in the tournament, GAA Rounders will host three exhibition matches on Thursday, 16 July. We are incredibly excited to be invited to take part in such a prestigious event.

A Celebration of Global Gaelic Games

The World Games take place every three years in Ireland, bringing together over 2,000 players from Europe, the US, Africa, South America, Canada, Britain, Australasia, Asia, and the Middle East to compete and experience Irish culture.

Thursday, 16 July is a designated rest day for many tournament players. We will be actively encouraging them to come to SETU to watch the best of our athletes showcase the skill, speed, and excitement of a game that has been a core part of the GAA since the original charter in 1884.

Speaking at the launch, Paula Doherty, President of GAA Rounders, said:

“On behalf of GAA Rounders, I want to wish all participants the very best of luck. The absolute best of our sport will be on display, and we encourage everybody during their downtime to take in a match and see what GAA Rounders—a code experiencing massive growth—can offer their club.”

Further details regarding teams, times, and exact locations will be available soon. For now, keep the date free – Thursday, 16 July – and prepare to be treated to some world-class Rounders at the GAA World Games!

GAA Rounders – 7 June 2026 Preview

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Preview 7 June 2026

GAA Rounders Championship Preview

Hard to believe but we’ve now entered our third month of All-Ireland games and we’re into Week 8 of the 2026 Championship. League tables are starting to take shape and the braver among us are starting to put bets on who’ll be reaching All-Ireland finals in August and September. But Rounders is nothing if not unpredictable and there’s still plenty of time to turn things around. We have 14 matches on Sunday so let’s have a look at who’ll be lining out and how they might fare.

Senior

Our only Senior action on Sunday will be in Carrickmacross where the Monaghan club welcomes Dublin visitors Limekiln. The men will start the day at 12pm, followed by the Mixed teams at 1.30pm and Women at 3pm.

Limekiln have had mixed fortunes so far this year. Their Women have won two games and only lost one. Their combined experience would have to make them favourites against the relatively inexperienced at Senior Carrickmacross ladies. However, Limekiln’s team has enjoyed a number of new transfers this year and are still gelling as a group. Carrickmacross beat both The Heath and Erne Eagles and will be confident of making this three in a row.

Limekiln’s Mixed team started the year strong with a win over Kilmeena but haven’t had another victory since. Carrickmacross started slow but won two weeks ago beating Erne Eagles. Limekiln’s Men are yet to get a win on the board, while Carrickmacross narrowly beat Galway City Rapparees. Will home advantage mean that Carrick can take all three games?

Predictions: Senior Men – Carrickmacross Emmets; Senior Mixed – Limekiln; Senior Women – Carrickmacross Emmets
Emo’s Michael Slevin will referee all three Senior games

Closing out Sunday’s action in Carrickmacross will be their Junior Women who welcome Longford side Clonguish. Carrick’s ladies are having quite the season, having only lost to Kilmore and are sitting comfortably in second place on the table. This is only Clonguish’s second game of the year and they’ll be hoping this will give them their first win.

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets
National Secretary Shirley Lennon will be in charge for this game

Intermediate

We have five Intermediate games in three venues nationwide to look forward to. First up in Cavan, St. Clare’s welcome Laois side Emo for an Intermediate Men’s game at 11am. Emo have played twice and won twice, beating Connacht sides Kilmore and Kilmeena. Will their winning streak continue against an Ulster team? St. Clare’s have only played once and lost to St. Senan’s

Prediction – Emo

Next up in Cavan will be Intermediate Mixed and this clash sees table toppers St. Clare’s take on bottom of the table Michael Glavey’s. To be fair to Glavey’s this is their first outing this year and they’ll be looking to get points on the table and move their way up.

Prediction – St. Clare’s

Final match of the day will be St. Clare’s Women vs Michael Glavey’s women. Both teams have played once and lost – St. Clare’s unable to match the skill and batting power of Galway City Rapparees and Glavey’s losing out to local rivals Elphin.

Prediction – St. Clare’s
Referee in Cavan for the day will be National Secretary, Shirley Lennon.

In Connacht at 11.30am Mayo’s Kilmeena will head east to play Elphin in Roscommon. Kilmeena have yet to start their 2026 campaign while Elphin have had two outings, beating Michael Glavey’s but losing to Galway City Rapparees.

Prediction – Kilmeena
Erne Eagles’ Darryl Dolan will referee in Elphin.

Our final Intermediate match of the day will be in Wexford where Gusserane will welcome Dublin Metropolitans. Gusserane are stepping onto an Intermediate pitch for the first time since their promotion to the grade and will take on the Mets who have beaten Glynn Barntown but lost to Raheen already this year. This is Dublin Mets first year at Intermediate Mixed but their men have played at this level for the past year. Will this experience stand to them and give them the win?

Prediction – Dublin Metropolitans
Our Referee in Gusserane will be Glynn Barntown’s Mary Roche.

Junior Round-up

Other Junior games taking place on Sunday are:

Junior Women

At 11am in Drumhowan, the hosts welcome new Meath side Nobber who took their first win of the season last weekend against Inniskeen Grattans.

Prediction – Nobber Referee – Emma Perrin of Erne Eagles

At 10am in Limerick, Kildimo Pallaskenry will host Galway’s Athenry

Prediction – Kildimo Pallaskenry Referee – St. Kieran’s Michael Sheahan

Also at 10am, our second Meath side of the day, Skryne will play Inniskeen Grattans at home. The new Inniskeen side are still finding their feet but will they manage to get their strategy together enough to beat Skryne?

Prediction – Skryne Referee – Limekiln’s Amanda Hoxha

Our only Junior Men’s game of the day will take place at 12pm in Skryne when Inniskeen Grattans meet Myshall. Inniskeen have yet to play a Men’s match this season while Myshall narrowly lost to Carrickmacross Emmets in May.

Prediction – Myshall Referee – Limekiln’s Amanda Hoxha

Our last Junior game of the day is Mixed and will feature a third Meath team when Dunsany travel to Carlow to play Leighlinbridge. The Carlow side’s performance this year has been solid with four wins from four and it would seem like a safe bet that newly formed team Dunsany won’t trouble them too much in their attempt to make a quarter final next month.

Prediction – Leighlinbridge Referee – Cathy Kearns

With eight matches in Ulster, four in Leinster and one each in Connacht and Munster, there are lots of opportunities to go watch some great Rounders this Sunday. By the end of the day some of our quarter and semi-finalists should be very clear and a few teams might find themselves with quite the uphill battle to qualify out of their groups. Final scores will be on our website and socials on Sunday evening.

Thank you to all our players, managers, Referees and Club Secretaries for the ongoing work to ensure that games are played and our Championship is kept on track. It is all very much appreciated!

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Under 14 Mixed review

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Emo Claim Under 14 Mixed All-Ireland Title

Despite challenging weather conditions, the Under 14 Mixed Championship brought plenty of excitement to Clann na nGael, Roscommon, on Saturday, 30th May, as four clubs battled it out for national honours.

Representing four counties were Emo (Laois), Cuchulainn (Carlow), holders Erne Eagles (Cavan), and newcomers to GAA Rounders, Clontuskert of Galway.

Lighting up the place

 

The morning round-robin stage lit up Clann na nGael with some excellent displays of juvenile rounders. Sharp catches, disciplined fielding, and intelligent game management ensured that matches were decided on the field rather than by the clock, with scores proving difficult to come by throughout the morning.

Cuchulainn keep momentum 

Cuchulainn picked up where they had left off in the Under 14 Boys and Girls Championships earlier in the month. Built on a strong defensive foundation, the Carlow side proved incredibly difficult to break down and consistently kept opposition scoring opportunities to a minimum.

Cuchulainn continue to impress at all grades

Emo show quality

 

Emo showed their quality throughout the group stages. Powerful batting, combined with equally impressive fielding, saw the Laois side emerge from the round robin unbeaten and secure their place in the All-Ireland Final.

Clontuskert make progress 

 

For Clontuskert, the day began with understandable nerves as they made their championship debut. However, the Galway side improved dramatically with every innings they played. Their standout performance came against Cuchulainn, where they became the only team to truly unlock the Carlow defence during the group stages, scoring ten in a single innings and pushing the eventual finalists all the way before narrowly losing out in the third innings.

Eagles return

 

Defending champions Erne Eagles also made life difficult for every team they faced. A thrilling group-stage encounter with Cuchulainn could have gone either way, with the Cavan side agonisingly missing out on the opportunity to defend their crown. Instead, they would face Clontuskert in the Shield Final.

After three hard-fought matches each, the stage was set. Emo and Cuchulainn would contest the Championship Final, while Erne Eagles and Clontuskert would battle for Shield honours.

Clontuskert make a final on debut.

Clontuskert after receiving their silver medals

 

The progress made by Clontuskert throughout the day was evident for all to see. Their field became increasingly organised, while their batting line-up grew in confidence and understanding. However, Erne Eagles had also found another gear as the day progressed. Defensive errors had become rare and scoring opportunities were difficult to find. Clontuskert battled bravely and earned their three bats, but silver medals in the Shield Final would be their reward. Erne Eagles, meanwhile, added yet another trophy to a clubhouse already familiar with success.

 

Paula Doherty presents the Erne Eagles captain with the under 14 shield trophy

 

A final of the highest standard

 

The Championship Final proved a fitting finale to a superb day’s action.

As had been the case in the Shield Final, a full morning of rounders had sharpened both teams’ attacking and defensive play. Scores were hard-earned throughout, with neither side able to establish a decisive advantage. Emo edged the early innings and carried a narrow lead into the final exchanges, but Cuchulainn remained firmly in contention.

With the advantage of fielding first in the closing stages, Cuchulainn succeeded in keeping Emo relatively quiet, but knew they would need scores of their own to bring home a second national title of the season.

Emo, however, were not prepared to surrender their advantage. Their well-organised field restricted Cuchulainn’s scoring opportunities and held firm when it mattered most. The Carlow side fought until the very end, but could not find the scores needed to overturn the deficit.

When the final out was confirmed, it was Emo who emerged as Under 14 Mixed All-Ireland Champions, adding another chapter to a proud history in the competition and once again seeing their name engraved on a trophy that has become a familiar destination for the Laois club.

Emo win the Under 14 All Ireland Mixed title

Congratulations to all four clubs for an excellent day of juvenile rounders and for showcasing the skill, determination, and sportsmanship that continues to drive the growth of GAA Rounders across the country.