Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders

GAA Rounders has entered a landmark moment in its history with the election of Paula Doherty as the Association’s first-ever female President. The announcement comes at a time when the sport is experiencing unprecedented growth, with nearly 70 clubs, more than 2,500 adult players, and new clubs forming every week — making Rounders one of the fastest-growing sports in Ireland.

A native of Castlebar, Co. Mayo, Doherty has been immersed in Rounders for more than three decades. From first playing at age 11 to becoming one of the most decorated players in the modern game, her contribution spans playing, coaching, club leadership, and national administration.

A Leader with On-Field Excellence

4 Senior Women’s All-Ireland titles (2022–2025)
2 Senior Mixed All-Ireland titles (2024, 2025)
3 All-Star Awards at 3rd Base (2022, 2023, 2025)

All achieved with her home club, Breaffy Rounders.

Professional Expertise

Off the field, Doherty works as a lecturer and programme director at ATU St Angela’s, Sligo. Her background in education, governance, and strategic planning aligns closely with the needs of a rapidly growing national body.

A Vision for the Years Ahead

“Rounders was recognised in the GAA’s original constitution in 1884. We are not on the edges of the Association — we are part of its foundation.”

Her leadership will follow a clear principle:

“There is one question that will guide every decision we make: does this help all our clubs?”

Her priorities include strengthening club structures, enhancing referee development, expanding digital promotion, and improving communication nationwide.