Tag Archive for: Glynn Barntown

Watch Live: TG4 to Show Three Weeks of GAA Rounders All-Ireland Finals

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Watch Live: TG4 to Show Three Weeks of GAA Rounders All-Ireland Finals

GAA Rounders is set for three huge weeks of national exposure, with TG4 providing live online coverage of the 2026 All-Ireland Finals across three consecutive Sundays.

Nine All-Ireland titles will be decided across the Women’s, Men’s and Mixed championships, with the action beginning at the National Games Development Centre in Abbotstown on Sunday, 30 August before moving to Offaly and finally Mallow.

Supporters unable to attend will be able to follow the action live online as the Junior, Intermediate and Senior championships are decided.

Sunday, 30 August – Women’s Finals, Abbotstown

The first of the three finals weekends takes place at the National Games Development Centre, Abbotstown, with three Women’s All-Ireland champions to be crowned.

11:00am – Junior Women: St Kieran’s (Limerick) v St Senan’s (Limerick)

Finals season begins with an all-Limerick encounter as St Kieran’s and St Senan’s battle for the Junior Women’s title.

WATCH LIVE: St Kieran’s v St Senan’s

1:00pm – Intermediate Women: Galway City Rapparees v Elphin (Roscommon)

 

Whatever happens at Abbotstown, history will be made in the Intermediate Final.

Both Galway City Rapparees and Elphin will be appearing in their first Women’s All-Ireland Final, guaranteeing a first national title for one of the two Connacht clubs.

For Rapparees, it continues a rapid rise for a club which played its first championship season in 2022, while Elphin will arrive from Roscommon with exactly the same ambition – to make their first final appearance a winning one.

WATCH LIVE: Galway City Rapparees v Elphin

3:30pm – Senior Women: Breaffy (Mayo) v Limekiln (Dublin)

The final game of the opening weekend brings one of the biggest stories of the entire championship.

Breaffy are going for an extraordinary fifth successive Senior Women’s All-Ireland title.

The Mayo side have established themselves as the dominant force in the grade and now stand just one victory away from completing five-in-a-row.

Limekiln travel from Dublin looking to end that remarkable sequence and take home the biggest prize in Women’s GAA Rounders.

WATCH LIVE: Breaffy v Limekiln

Sunday, 6 September – Men’s Finals, Offaly

The following Sunday, the focus switches to the Offaly GAA Centre of Excellence in Kilcormac for the Men’s All-Ireland Finals.

11:00am – Junior Men: Gusserane (Wexford) v Myshall (Carlow)

Leinster rivals Gusserane and Myshall open the second weekend as they compete for the Junior Men’s All-Ireland title.

1:00pm – Intermediate Men: St Clare’s (Cavan) v St Senan’s (Limerick)

Ulster meets Munster in the Intermediate decider, with St Clare’s taking on St Senan’s. It will be a first senior men’s campaign for one of these teams in 2027.

Senior Men: Erne Eagles (Cavan) v Carrickmacross Emmets (Monaghan)

The Senior Final will see two of the leading teams in the country go head-to-head as Erne Eagles and Carrickmacross Emmets battle for the 2026 Senior Men’s All-Ireland Championship. These have been a step ahead of everyone over the past few years. With Carrick wining in 2026 and Eagles in 2025.

It promises to provide a fitting conclusion to the second Sunday of live TG4 coverage.

Sunday, 13 September – Mixed Finals, Mallow

The championship concludes on Sunday, 13 September at Mallow GAA, Cork, with three Mixed All-Ireland Finals.

Galway City Rapparees will have a particularly significant day, with the club represented in two of the three Mixed finals.

11:00am – Junior Mixed: Galway City Rapparees v Kilmore (Roscommon)

Rapparees and Kilmore begin proceedings with an all-Connacht All-Ireland Final. This is a proper Galway v Roscommon derby, it should be a fantastic match.

1:00pm – Intermediate Mixed: Emo (Laois) v Galway City Rapparees

Just two hours later, Galway City Rapparees return to the field for the Intermediate Final against Emo.

It gives the Galway club the unusual opportunity to contest two national Mixed finals on the same afternoon.

Emo got beaten in last years final and will be hoping to go one better.

3:30pm – Senior Mixed: Breaffy (Mayo) v Glynn Barntown (Wexford)

The final game of the 2026 club championship sees Breaffy face Glynn Barntown for the Senior Mixed crown. Breaffy are going for three titles in a row.

After nine finals across three Sundays, the Senior Mixed decider will bring the curtain down on the championship season.

Nine GAA Rounders Finals Across Three Sundays

Sunday, 30 August
Women’s Finals – NGDC Abbotstown, Dublin

Sunday, 6 September
Men’s Finals – Offaly GAA Centre of Excellence, Kilcormac

Sunday, 13 September
Mixed Finals – Mallow GAA, Cork

From clubs appearing in their first All-Ireland Final to Breaffy chasing five Senior Women’s and theee mixed titles in succession, there will be no shortage of stories across the three weekends.

Most importantly, the live TG4 coverage gives GAA Rounders an opportunity to put its biggest games and best players in front of a much wider audience.

The road to nine All-Ireland titles begins at 11:00am this Sunday in Abbotstown, when St Kieran’s and St Senan’s throw the first pitch of three consecutive weekends of GAA Rounders All-Ireland Finals.

GAA Rounders World Games Exhibition Matches

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GAA World Games – 16 July 2026

No two days in the Rounders world are ever the same, but some days really are very special. They remind us why we do what we do and what makes the game we all love so wonderful. Thursday, 16 July was one of those days for everyone involved in the GAA Rounders Exhibition Games as part of the GAA World Games.

Back in January, GAA Rounders was invited to be involved in the 2026 GAA World Games, and we jumped at the opportunity to be part of this fantastic collaborative event involving GAA players from all over the world. Although we couldn’t be included in the competitive tournament proper, we submitted a proposal to showcase our sport through three high-calibre Exhibition Games featuring our best players from across the country.

Once the plan was accepted by the World Games Committee, we sent personal invitations to 100 of our 2025 All-Star winners, nominees, and players who narrowly missed out due to injury. An astonishing 70 players accepted, and the real planning began.

After months of hard work, Thursday, 16 July dawned sunny and warm. Fabulous new kits – including specially designed black or white jerseys, teal shorts, and white and teal socks – were generously sponsored by the GAA World Games Committee and gifted to all players. Those involved began arriving from 10.30am and very shortly Pitch 8 at the SETU Arena, Waterford, was buzzing with players looking sharp and ready for action.

Game 1: Women’s Exhibition Match (12pm)

  • Referee: AnnMarie Brennan (Cúchulainn)
  • Final Score: Celtic Crushers 25 – 13 Shamrock Sluggers

 The Teams

  • Shamrock Sluggers:
    • Captain: Emma Reddy (Glynn Barntown) | Vice-Captain: Katie Groonell (Breaffy) | Manager: PJ Lalor (Myshall)
    • Squad: Pamela Brennan (Glynn Barntown), Shirleen Burns (Erne Eagles), Geraldine Goldrick (Erne Eagles), Aileen Kelly (Glynn Barntown), Sheena King (Glynn Barntown), Alisha Reddy (Glynn Barntown), Mary Roche (Glynn Barntown), Irene Scanlon (Erne Eagles), Caroline Waters (Cúchulainn), Marie Whelan (Carrickmacross Emmets)
  • Celtic Crushers:
    • Captain: Kim Thornton (Carrickmacross Emmets) | Vice-Captain: Louise Kelly (St. Senan’s) | Manager: Mark Jennings (Breaffy)
    • Squad: Maggie Brady (Erne Eagles), Abbie Delaney (Glynn Barntown), Chloe Doyle (Glynn Barntown), Lisa Flood (Erne Eagles), Helen Gallagher (Breaffy), Aileen Gavin (Breaffy), Gráinne Gavin (Breaffy), Michelle Hopkins (Breaffy), Holly Kavanagh (The Heath)

 Match Highlights

First to bat were the Celtic Crushers, and right from the start, spectators were treated to impressive catches and sharp base outs from both sides. At the end of the first inning, the score was deadlocked at 2–2. In the second inning, the Crushers settled into a rhythm, bringing seven home to build a 9–2 lead, which they expanded to a 25–13 victory by the fifth inning.

However, the real winner of the match was Rounders itself. Impressive catches from Caroline Waters, Lisa Flood, Aileen Kelly, Katie Groonell, and Chloe Doyle secured key outs, while the teamwork, rock-solid catches, and sharp throws on base from Pamela Brennan, Alisha Reddy, Maggie Brady, and Louise Kelly were fantastic to watch. Pitchers rotated throughout, with Michelle Hopkins, Emma Reddy, Irene Scanlon, and Louise Kelly, all doing themselves and their clubs proud.

A special mention goes to Cúchulainn’s AnnMarie Brennan, who returned from maternity leave – brining baby Oisín along for his very first Rounders event! We were thrilled to have her experience and officiating skill on the pitch.

Player of the Match: Caroline Waters (Cúchulainn) — Chosen by the match officials for her impressive batting and calm, composed catching at Short-stop, which yielded two double outs.

Game 2: Men’s Exhibition Match (2pm)

  • Referee: PJ Lalor (Myshall)
  • Final Score: Turf Titans 17 – 13 Bog Warriors

The Teams

  • Bog Warriors:
    • Captain: Billy Connors (Cúchulainn) | Vice-Captain: Justin Burns (Carrickmacross Emmets) | Managers: Michael Slevin & JP Tynan (Emo)
    • Squad: Aidan Carr (Kilmore), Paul Cooper (Glynn Barntown), Declan Finnegan (Carrickmacross Emmets), Mark Jennings (Breaffy), Gary Jordan (Glynn Barntown), Aaron Keane (The Heath), Barry Lambe (Carrickmacross Emmets), Eddie O’Connor (Raheen), Ili Tuimauga (Galway City Rapparees)
  • Turf Titans:
    • Captain: Shane Sheridan (Erne Eagles) | Vice-Captain: Eddie Healy (Limekiln) | Manager: Emma Reddy (Glynn Barntown)
    • Squad: Paul Delaney (Glynn Barntown), John Gibbons (Breaffy), Colm Jordan (Breaffy), Ronan Kiernan (Carrickmacross Emmets), Euan Matthews (Carrickmacross Emmets), Aidan McDonald (Raheen), Owen Roe O’Reilly (Erne Eagles), Peadar Waters (Cúchulainn), Ciarán Weldon (Limekiln).

 Match Highlights

The Bog Warriors batted first, getting off to a flying start with two runners home, but three swift outs from both fielding teams kept the score tied 2–2 after the first inning. The Turf Titans pulled ahead with six runs in the second, leading 12–8 by the fifth inning. This thrilling contest went the full seven innings, with the Turf Titans eventually sealing a 17–13 win.

The quality of play was second to none: breathtaking one-handed catches from Billy Connors and Eddie O’Connor, lightning-fast reflexes from backcatchers Ciarán Weldon and Gary Jordan, and pinpoint pitching from Barry Lambe, Peadar Waters, and Aidan McDonald.

We have to mention Kilmore’s Aidan Carr, a late call-up and the only non-Senior player on either men’s panel. Nobody watching his quality at bat or on the pitch would ever have guessed – his contribution was equal to that of any senior veteran on the field!

Player of the Match: Barry Lambe (Carrickmacross Emmets) — Awarded for a stellar pitching performance, smart tactical batting throughout, and a fantastic Home Run.

 A big thank you to Myshall’s PJ Lalor for officiating a fast-moving, competitive game with great control!

The Skills Challenge

Following the Men’s match, the Skills Games took centre stage. Organised by Peadar Waters and PJ Lalor, five stations tested players’ running, throwing, and pitching accuracy. Station assistance was kindly provided by Caroline Waters, Marion Sheir, Louise Riddell, Lorraine Pugh, and Kamil Walczak.

Special thanks to StrikeZone (Dublin), who brought personnel and specialised equipment to measure the speed of the fastest pitches. The competitive rivalry was high, and the skills showcase proved to be a brilliant addition to the day’s entertainment.

Game 3: Mixed Exhibition Match (4.30pm)

  • Referee: Peadar Waters (Cúchulainn)
  • Teams: Celtic Chaos vs. Emerald Avengers

The Teams

  • Celtic Chaos:
    • Captain: Danielle Keane (The Heath) | Vice-Captain: Nakita O’Connor (Raheen) | Manager: Paul Cooper (Glynn Barntown)
    • Squad: Gary Boland (Glynn Barntown), Tyra Brennan (Glynn Barntown), Leanne Carroll (Cúchulainn), Aidan Jayne (Dublin Metropolitans), Dwayne Keane (The Heath), Mick Kelly (Glynn Barntown), PJ Lalor (Myshall), Leah Mullins (Cúchulainn), Kamil Walczak (Cúchulainn).
  • Emerald Avengers:
    • Captain: JP Tynan (Emo) | Vice-Captain: Tomás Kenny (Galway City Rapparees) | Manager: Ronan Kiernan (Carrickmacross Emmets)
    • Squad: Aoife Birney (Glynn Barntown), Danny Broderick (Cúchulainn), Ryan Dennis (Galway City Rapparees), Aisling Ginnitty (Carrickmacross Emmets), Michelle McDonnell (Carrickmacross Emmets), Justin Perrin (Erne Eagles), Niall Sheehy (St. Senan’s), Marion Sheir (Cúchulainn), Michael Slevin (Emo), Julianne Smith (Inniskeen Grattans).

Match Highlights

Our final game highlighted the unique mixed-gender element of adult GAA Rounders – and it certainly didn’t disappoint! Both teams gave their all in a display of speed, dexterity, tactical confidence, and teamwork.

Huge hits straight into outfielders’ hands, rapid infield bunts thrown accurately on the run to base, alert backcatchers pouncing on clips, and tricky pitching that forced hits to go foul: this game truly had it all. Despite being under the beating sun at SETU since early morning, the players brought incredible energy, keeping the pace fierce and competitive until the end.

Backcatchers included Tyra Brennan, Niall Sheehy, Leah Mullins, and Michelle McDonnell, while pitching duties were expertly handled by Ryan Dennis, Danielle Keane, PJ Lalor, and Michael Slevin. In the outfield, Mick Kelly, Kamil Walczak, Justin Perrin, Danny Broderick, and JP Tynan pulled down outstanding catches, backed by stellar infield work from Nakita O’Connor, Gary Boland, Aisling Ginnitty, and Aoife Birney.

Player of the Match: Tomás Kenny (Galway City Rapparees) – honoured for two magnificent catches for outs and excellent, timely batting that advanced teammates and brought runners home.

 Celebrations & Acknowledgments

After nine action-packed hours on Pitch 8 at SETU Arena, it was time to pack up the equipment, load the cars, and head to The Reg in Waterford City for a well-earned evening out. With finger food, great analysis of the day’s play, music provided by DJ Mick Kelly, and brilliant company, it was the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

An event of this scale does not happen without enormous dedication, time, and hard work. While the ultimate reward was a landmark day for our sport, special thanks must be extended to:

  • GAA World Games Organising Committee: Séamus Blake, David Britton, Paul Fitzpatrick, Shauna Fox, Charlie Harrison, Paul Morrissey, Nora Rahill, and Niamh Sauvage
  • Match Officials, Crowd Control, Skills Games & Event Support: Danny Broderick, Mag Doyle, Gráinne Gavin, Ciara Groonell, Eddie Healy, Mark Jennings, Nakita O’Connor, Lorraine Pugh, Louise Riddell, Mary Roche, Marion Sheir, Chiara Trench, Kamil Walczak, and Caroline Waters
  • Live Streaming Commentators: Shirley Lennon and Emma Perrin
  • Club Secretaries: From all 15 participating clubs – your administrative support in the buildup was invaluable!
  • GAA Rounders President: Paula Doherty
  • Event Sponsor: ID Pal, for your generous support which helped fund the event
  • Our Players & Managers: Without your commitment and passion, none of this would have been possible
  • The Organising Committee: Peadar Waters, PJ Lalor, and Shirley Lennon. This was a true labour of love – the countless hours spent planning, discussing, and organising were worth every second when we saw what was achieved on 16 July. We set out to show the world what GAA Rounders is all about, and anybody watching could not help but be impressed by the show put on by our community. Until 2029, our heartfelt thanks to you all!

 

GAA Rounders Preview: Full Fixtures and Predictions for 31 May 2026

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Preview – 31 May 2026

It’s the June Bank Holiday Weekend and, while the rest of the country’s thoughts are turning to barbeques and an extra day off work, true Rounders fans are planning how many matches we can take in and what’s the quickest way to get from Athlone GAA to Clann na nGael and back again to catch as much of the action as possible in the seven games taking place between both venues on Sunday afternoon.

With multiple matches in Monaghan and Carlow, and one each in Mayo and Wexford, there’s no excuse not to be on your nearest pitch watching Bank Holiday Rounders this weekend.

Before we dive in, just a reminder that our U14 Mixed All-Ireland Competition will take place in Clann na nGael, Athlone, on Saturday, 30 May, from 10am, with the promise of some excellent Rounders from the stars of the future.

Clubs from Ulster, Connacht and Leinster will be vying for the title of U14 Champion – will Cavan’s Erne Eagles retain their title, or will the cup be going home with underage superstars Emo, newly formed Galway club Clontuskert, Roscommon contenders Elphin, or recent U14 Girls’ All-Ireland title winners Cúchulainn of Carlow?

Midlands Medley

With two pitches – one each for Senior and Intermediate games – on the go in Athlone GAA for the day, it will be a busy afternoon.

Starting proceedings at 12pm will be last year’s Intermediate Mixed winners, Erne Eagles, taking on newly promoted Intermediate side and last year’s Junior Mixed winners, St. Senan’s.

With rumours that Darryl Dolan was hoping to play Intermediate this year firmly quashed after his substitution onto the Senior team last weekend, we’ll have to wait until Sunday to see who lines out for the Cavan side.

While St. Senan’s were powerfully impressive at Junior last year, will they find the jump to playing what should now be a Senior-standard side a step too far?

Prediction: Erne Eagles

Our second Intermediate match will feature St. Senan’s Men, this time taking on Roscommon side Kilmore, also in their first year at Intermediate.

Kilmore have performed strongly so far this year. Having beaten Dublin Metropolitans on opening weekend and narrowly losing 14-10 to last year’s Intermediate Men’s finalists, Emo, their move to Intermediate is going well.

St. Senan’s have also played twice this season – losing to Dublin Mets and beating St. Clare’s – and both sides will be keen to make their way into top position on the league table heading into June.

Prediction: Kilmore

Athlone’s Intermediate games will be refereed by Myshall’s PJ Lalor.

Also in Athlone, two Senior games – both involving Cavan’s Erne Eagles and Wexford’s Raheen – will take place from 1.30pm.

First up will be both sides’ Senior Men. Raheen played last Sunday and lost to Cúchulainn, while Erne Eagles also played last Sunday and beat reigning All-Ireland Champions Carrickmacross Emmets – no prizes for guessing who will go into the game more confident.

Prediction – Erne Eagles

Final game in Athlone, at 3pm, will be the two Senior teams’ Women. Raheen will be bruised following a comprehensive defeat to Cúchulainn, while Eagles, who also lost to Carrickmacross’ Women last weekend, will be keen to get back to winning ways and take the victory.

Prediction – Erne Eagles

Our Senior Referee in Athlone GAA will be Galway City Rapparees’ Craig Davis.

Still in Athlone, but moving from Co. Westmeath to Co. Roscommon, Clann na nGael will host three more Senior games, this time between Breaffy and Glynn Barntown.

Starting at 12.30pm with a replay of the 2025 Senior Women’s final, followed at 2pm by the Senior Mixed clash and ending the day at 3.30pm when the men of both clubs square up on the pitch.

So far this season, in all three grades, Breaffy are the team to beat, and Glynn Barntown will need to be at their best to upset the Mayo side in their quest to continue to top the groups and make three All-Ireland finals.

Prediction – Breaffy to win all three

Refereeing in Clann na nGael will be The Heath’s Danielle Keane.

Junior Games

Starting at 11am in Leighlinbridge is the first of three Junior matches being hosted by the Carlow club. To start, they will take on Emo. With neither side yet suffering a defeat in a Junior Mixed match in 2026, nobody will want to lose that perfect record.

Prediction – Emo

At 1pm, Leighlinbridge’s Women will take on Wexford side Castletown Liam Mellows.

As a newly formed team this year, Castletown are finding their feet and will be hoping this is the day they manage to get their first win. Leighlinbridge, who beat Kilanerin Ballyfad by 29 runs in their opening Women’s game, are aiming to make sure that doesn’t happen.

Prediction – Leighlinbridge

Finally in Leighlinbridge on Sunday, the hosts can take a break and watch Naomh Pól take on Oulart The Ballagh in a Junior Mixed game between two “new to the Championship” sides.

This is both teams’ third fixture of the season, but Oulart are ahead on points having received a walkover in their first game.

Oulart performed well on Junior Day, reaching a Shield Final, but Naomh Pól also showed great promise in the Munster Winter League. This should be an exciting game between two well-matched teams.

Prediction – Oulart The Ballagh

Our Leighlinbridge Referee for the day will be Glynn Barntown’s Sarah McGuinness.

Staying in the South East, Gusserane and Na Gaeil Nua’s Junior Men’s teams both start their Championship campaigns when they travel to Castletown Liam Mellows to play at 12pm.

At Junior Day, Gusserane’s Men’s team came away with the Cup, while Na Gaeil Nua, a brand-new team formed this year, played Mixed and showed that they have great potential.

Prediction – Gusserane

Cathy Kearns of Glynn Barntown will be in charge for this game.

Much further north, in Carrickmacross, three more exciting Junior games will take place in Platinum Tanks Park, starting at 11am when the hosts take on Slaughtneil.

After a few years away from Championship action, the Derry side have returned this year and played their first match last Sunday in Inniskeen. Although they lost, the experience gained will stand to them against this Carrick side, who will be keen to put their opening defeat by Kilmore behind them and get some winning points on the scoreboard.

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets

Next up, at 1pm, the hosts will welcome Elphin for another Junior Mixed game.

Elphin have played twice this season and lost both games – to Inniskeen and Kilmore – and will want to ensure they break the cycle. Will Carrick’s second game of the day mean they’re finely tuned and ready to win, or will Elphin’s fresh legs give them the advantage?

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets

The final Junior Mixed game in Monaghan on Sunday will be between Elphin and Antrim side Wolfe Tones.

For the second week in a row, Wolfe Tones will be making the journey to Monaghan, but will their narrow defeat to Inniskeen last Sunday have them ready to take it up a notch this week and win? Or will Elphin, with their Intermediate Women players, have the edge in their second match of the day?

Prediction – Elphin

Refereeing all three matches in Carrickmacross will be National Secretary Shirley Lennon.

Not far away, in Inniskeen, there will be another Junior Mixed game at 11am when Inniskeen Grattans once again welcome a Derry team, Naomh Trea, in Junior Mixed.

While Inniskeen have three wins already under their belt this season, Naomh Trea have yet to play a competitive match.

Prediction – Inniskeen Grattans

Longford’s Clonguish will take to the pitch at 1pm to play Inniskeen’s Junior Women.

Clonguish lost to Skryne midweek in their first game of the season and will be aiming to reverse the result for this match. Inniskeen’s Junior Women are a newly formed side with lots of potential and, if they can get their fielding in order, this could be an interesting game.

Prediction – Inniskeen Grattans

Local legend, Carrickmacross Emmets’ Colm Birdy, will referee this match.

Our final venue for the day will be our most westerly when Athenry travel to Garrymore in Mayo to play a Junior Mixed game.

This will be Garrymore’s first time to play this season, while Athenry lost narrowly to Galway City Rapparees in their first outing.

Prediction – Garrymore

Galway City Rapparees’ Jay Hall will be in charge of this match.

With all except one of last week’s predictions correct – and the very surprising revelation that people actually read these articles! – the pressure is on to see if all 16 of this week’s winners will have been revealed in advance!

You know what you have to do to prove us wrong!! Final scores will be on our website and socials on Sunday evening.

Enjoy the long weekend and go out and support our players if you can.

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Limekiln v Galway Rapparees

GAA Rounders Fixtures & Preview: All Games This Sunday (26 April 2026)

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Preview – 26 April 2026

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

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

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

With nine exciting pairings on Sunday to keep spectators and competitors interested and engaged, we look forward to seeing how our reigning All-Ireland champions and contenders fare. If you can’t be in Castlebar or Tymon Park, keep a close eye on our socials and website for the latest scores and winners.

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GAA Rounders Fixtures 2026 Confirmed | Full Championship Schedule & Teams

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Fixtures confirmed for 2026 championship season

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

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

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.

Clubs entered – 2026 Championships

Senior Championships
Senior Women

Breaffy, Carrickmacross Emmets, Cúchulainn, Erne Eagles, Glynn Barntown, Limekiln, Raheen, The Heath

Senior Men

Breaffy, Carrickmacross Emmets, Cúchulainn, Erne Eagles, Galway City Rapparees, Glynn Barntown, Limekiln, Raheen

Senior Mixed

Breaffy, Carrickmacross Emmets, Cúchulainn, Erne Eagles, Glynn Barntown, Kilmeena, Limekiln

Intermediate Championships
Intermediate Women

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

Full fixture details, venues, competition structures and knockout dates should be read in conjunction with the official Senior, Intermediate and Junior fixture booklets circulated to clubs.

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.

InterProvincial GAA Rounders Returns as Panels, Fixtures and Referees Confirmed

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InterProvincial GAA Rounders Returns

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

Some of the best Rounders players in the country will be on show in Athlone GAA on Sunday 29 March

This year’s tournament will look a little different. The last InterProvincials were played as a mixed competition, but this time the format changes with separate Men’s and Women’s tournaments being played across the same afternoon.

Across the extended panels announced this week, players from around 30 clubs have been nominated from across the four provinces.

Match Schedule

Time Match Referee
12:00 Munster vs Connacht – Women Danielle Keane
12:15 Leinster vs Ulster – Men Áine McLaughlin
1:45 Leinster vs Ulster – Women Danielle Keane
2:15 Munster vs Connacht – Men Áine McLaughlin
3:30 Women’s Final Michael Dowling
4:15 Men’s Final Paula Doherty

Final Squads

The lists released this week are extended panels. Each province will now cut those squads down to a final 15 players before the tournament.

Teams must include players from each championship grade:

  • 3 Senior players + 2 Senior substitutes
  • 3 Intermediate players + 2 Intermediate substitutes
  • 3 Junior players + 2 Junior substitutes

The finals should be a bit special too, with Rounders President Paula Doherty set to referee the men’s final, while former President Michael Dowling will take charge of the women’s final — a nice touch to round off the day.

With six matches across the afternoon and players travelling from clubs across the country, the InterProvincials promise to be a great showcase for the game and a brilliant chance to see some of the top Rounders players in Ireland on the same pitch.

Connacht Interpros Panels

Connacht GAA Rounders interprovincial squad in 2023

Connacht GAA Rounders interprovincial squad in 2023

Connacht Women

Senior
Player Club
Noleen Coghlan Kilmeena
Catriona Cox Kilmeena
Irene Kaye Kilmeena
Catriona Olsen Kilmeena
Helen Gallagher Breaffy
Intermediate
Assumpta Feeney Athenry
Lisa Guilfoyle Athenry
Priscilla Heffernan Athenry
Tara Reapy Athenry
Gretta Davis Elphin
Cat Carty Galway City Rapparees
Hazel Kilduff Galway City Rapparees
Clodagh Naughton Galway City Rapparees
Jessie Pereira Galway City Rapparees
Gwen Redmond Galway City Rapparees
Laura Salvatore Galway City Rapparees
Alex Stewart Galway City Rapparees
Sadie Hunt Kilmeena
Junior
Ciara Butler Elphin
Avril Coyne Elphin
Barbora Novobilska Elphin
Joanne Forde Garrymore
Sarah Tierney Garrymore
Ana Carr Kilmore
Nicola Craughwell Kilmore
Clodagh Sheerin Kilmore

Connacht Men

Senior
Player Club
Victor Del Rosal Breaffy
Mark Jennings Breaffy
Jamie Murphy Breaffy
Richie Vaz Breaffy
Ben Golden Kilmeena
Tommy Hoban Kilmeena
Darragh McDonnell Kilmeena
Ollie Conway Michael Glaveys
Micheal McGreal Michael Glaveys
John Nolan Michael Glaveys
Intermediate
Sean Maher Athenry
Kieran Shaughnessy Athenry
Cathal Creavan Galway City Rapparees
Ryan Dennis Galway City Rapparees
Stewart Hagen Galway City Rapparees
Jay Hall Galway City Rapparees
Tomas Kenny Galway City Rapparees
Ajay Kumar Galway City Rapparees
Rory McGarvey Galway City Rapparees
Vishal Pathare Galway City Rapparees
Ili Tuimauga Galway City Rapparees
Junior
Conor Gunn Elphin
Luke Gunn Elphin
Filip Novobilska Elphin
Pawel Szawernoga Elphin
Colin Flannery Galway City Rapparees
Seamus Keegan Galway City Rapparees
Matt Kelly Galway City Rapparees
Colin O’Halloran Galway City Rapparees
Fintan Hession Garrymore
Frankie Durcan Kilmeena
Frank McNicholas Kilmeena
Will Powell Kilmeena
Aidan Carr Kilmore
Breian Carroll Kilmore
Mark Harrington Kilmore
Jamie Sharkey Kilmore
Kevin White Kilmore

2026 InterProvincials – Munster Panels

Munster Men

Intermediate
Name Club
John Hanlon St. Senan’s
Dean Hogan St. Senan’s
Dean McCarthy St. Senan’s
Ian Sheehy St. Senan’s
Niall Sheehy St. Senan’s
Junior
John Cleary Na Piarsaigh
Gerard Kearns Na Piarsaigh
Leo McKenna Na Piarsaigh
Andrew Cusack Sporting Limerick

Munster Women

Intermediate
Name Club
Grainne Noonan St. Senan’s
Aoife O’Carroll St. Senan’s
Junior
Colette Butler Knockainey
Jacki Hehir Knockainey
Olivia McNamara Knockainey
Miranda O’Brien Knockainey
Emma Walsh Knockainey
Aideen Hogg Na Piarsaigh
Michelle Lambe Na Piarsaigh
Sarah Stanley Na Piarsaigh
Stephanie Downes St. Kieran’s
Caitriona Hough St. Kieran’s
Majella O’Connor St. Kieran’s
Ashling O’Sullivan St. Kieran’s
Diane Curran Sporting Limerick
Eleanor O’Brien Sporting Limerick

2026 InterProvincials – Leinster Panels

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

Leinster Men

Senior
Name Club
Pierce Ryan Cuchulainn
Peadar Waters Cuchulainn
Paul Cooper Glynn Barntown
Garry Jordan Glynn Barntown
Ian White Glynn Barntown
Eoin Johnson Limekiln
Aidan McDonald Raheen
Eunan Furlong Raheen
Austin O’Meara The Heath
Intermediate
Asa Carley Dublin Metropolitans
Beau Carley Dublin Metropolitans
Jack Cheyne Dublin Metropolitans
André Cruz Dublin Metropolitans
Leonard Looney Dublin Metropolitans
Michael Slevin Emo
JP Tynan Emo
Junior
Conor Murphy Gusserane
Shane Coburn Myshall
PJ Lalor Myshall
James Nolan Myshall
Eoin Rea Myshall
Matthew Roberts Myshall

Leinster Women

Senior
Name Club
Amy Kelly Cuchulainn
Amy Moloney Cuchulainn
Leah Mullins Cuchulainn
Sheena King Glynn Barntown
Alisha Reddy Glynn Barntown
Mary Roche Glynn Barntown
Intermediate
Pamela Brennan Glynn Barntown
Stephanie Kelly Glynn Barntown
Liz Fitzgerald Kilanerin
Junior
Laura Cuddihy Dublin Metropolitans
Jessica Maddock Dublin Metropolitans
Gráinne Martin Dublin Metropolitans
Claire Mulry Dublin Metropolitans
Karen Byrne Glynn Barntown
Jen Kelly Leighlinbridge
Tracy McNally Leighlinbridge
Louise Riddell Leighlinbridge
Jenny Jugessur St. Martin’s
Deborah Roche St. Martin’s
Christine Stone St. Martin’s
Hazel Costello Skryne
Noeleen Greally Skryne
Karen Lynch Skryne
Lauren Smith Skryne

2026 InterProvincials – Ulster Panels

Ulster Men

Senior
Name Club
Paddy Bermingham Carrickmacross
Declan Finnegan Carrickmacross
Ronan Kiernan Carrickmacross
Barry Lambe Carrickmacross
Gerard Clerkin Erne Eagles
Fionn Higgins Erne Eagles
Nathan Loughnane Erne Eagles
Justin Perrin Erne Eagles
Shane Sheridan Erne Eagles
Intermediate
Bryan Dolan St. Clare’s
PJ Kelly St. Clare’s
Chaz Solomons St. Clare’s
Barry Walsh St. Clare’s
Junior
Philip Brooks Inniskeen
Trevor Hilliard Inniskeen
Sean O’Connor Inniskeen
Sachin Krishnan Wolfe Tones
David Mallon Wolfe Tones
Matthew Mallon Wolfe Tones

Ulster Women

Senior
Name Club
Louise Byrne Carrickmacross
Aisling Ginnity Carrickmacross
Olive Hanratty Carrickmacross
Laura Hughes Carrickmacross
Marie Whelan Carrickmacross
Margaret Brady Erne Eagles
Lisa Flood Erne Eagles
Geraldine Goldrick Erne Eagles
Lindsey O’Reilly Erne Eagles
Emma Perrin Erne Eagles
Intermediate
Aoife Byrne Carrickmacross
Aine Cahill St. Clare’s
Laura Lynch St. Clare’s
Lisa Lynch St. Clare’s
Louise McAndrew St. Clare’s
Junior
Aisling McDermott Carrickmacross
Siobhan Cunningham Inniskeen
Catherine Deery Inniskeen
Julianne Smith Inniskeen
Arleen Ramsey Wolfe Tones

Celebrating Women in Sport Week 2026 | GAA Rounders Mums, Daughters & Sisters

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Women in Sport Week 2026 runs from 2–8 March, and GAA Rounders is proud to celebrate the incredible female athletes who shape our game.

With over 60% of our membership female, Rounders truly spans every generation – from U7 Go Games right through to the Senior Women’s All-Ireland Championships. It is a genuine sport for life. Whether you are a lifelong player, returning after a break, or picking up a bat for the first time, there is a place for you in our community.

Our All-Ireland Championships feature dedicated Senior, Intermediate and Junior Women’s competitions. Uniquely within the adult GAA codes, women also compete alongside men in our Mixed Championships, highlighting the inclusivity and skill that define Rounders.

One of the most special sights in our sport is mothers playing alongside their daughters. These role models show that sport does not have an expiry date. By sharing the field, they pass on confidence, leadership and a lifelong love of the game.

While Part 2 will feature the cousins, wives and sisters-in-law who make Rounders a true family affair, today we celebrate some of our standout Mums & Daughters and Sisters.

The Ultimate Teammates: Mother & Daughter Combos

Carmel & Amy Moloney – Cúchulainn, Carlow

Carmel & Amy Moloney – Cúchulainn, Carlow

From Coach to Teammate: Amy won her first All-Ireland Minor medal under her mother’s coaching. Years later their roles evolved into teammates. Lining out together at Senior level, they reached a historic milestone: winning the All-Ireland Mixed title together in 2022. Sharing the pitch, the pressure, and the ultimate victory is a privilege few ever get to experience.

Pamela & Tyra Brennan – Glynn Barntown, Wexford

Pamela & Tyra Brennan – Glynn Barntown, Wexford

As Pamela emotionally reflects: “When my daughter Tyra moved up through the grades to play beside me on the field – and then win an All-Ireland together – it definitely topped the highlights of our Rounders journey.”

Jen, Amy & Katie Kelly – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Jen, Amy & Katie Kelly – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Amy has played alongside her mother, Jen, since the very beginning. Jen is renowned as a powerhouse hitter, often showing the girls exactly “how it’s done,” though Amy is now delivering some massive hits of her own. The family unit is now complete with Katie recently joining her mother and sister on the field.

Clare & Leah McNally – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Clare & Leah McNally – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Leah is a versatile player with a long throw and a talent for pitching, inheriting her mother’s knack for big hits. Her mother, Clare, is the club’s backbone – balancing roles as a selector and coach. Beyond their skills, the duo is famous for bringing the “craic” to every training session.

Karen & Sarah Lynch & Hazel Costello – Skryne, Meath

Karen & Sarah Lynch & Hazel Costello – Skryne, Meath

What began with Karen joining Skryne in 2024 quickly became a full family affair. Her daughter, Hazel, joined later that year, and by 2025 Karen’s sister (and Hazel’s aunt), Sarah, joined the crew to complete the family trio.

Double Trouble: The Twins

Katie & Kirstin Cronin – Elphin, Roscommon

Katie & Kirstin Cronin – Elphin, Roscommon

Twins Katie and Kirstin joined Elphin in 2024. “I like playing with my twin because we support one another – she always has my back,” says Katie. Kirstin adds a competitive twist: “We push each other more than anyone. I never want to let her get to the next base, so I work twice as hard to get her out!”

Sister, Sister: The Unbreakable Bond

Gráinne & Aileen Gavin – Breaffy, Mayo

Gráinne & Aileen Gavin – Breaffy, Mayo

The Gavin sisters play for the reigning Senior Women’s champions, Breaffy. In 2025 they didn’t just win matching All-Ireland medals – they both earned All-Star nominations, Gráinne for Senior Mixed Female Player of the Year and Aileen for Senior Women’s Centre Outfield.

Ciara & Katie Groonell – Breaffy, Mayo

Ciara & Katie Groonell – Breaffy, Mayo

This sister duo is a force to be reckoned with. At the 2024 All-Stars both took home awards: Katie for Senior Female Mixed Player of the Year and Ciara for Senior Women’s Roaming Player. Ciara, now Breaffy’s Club Secretary, says winning those awards together made an already amazing journey even more special.

Lindsey O’Reilly & Lisa Flood – Erne Eagles, Cavan

Lindsey O’Reilly & Lisa Flood – Erne Eagles, Cavan

For Lisa and Lindsey, Rounders is a lifelong story. Both started at ten years old and, despite Lisa’s ten-year detour abroad, they are back playing side-by-side for Erne Eagles.

They were originally inspired by another sister duo – their cousins Rosaleen and Dympna – ensuring the “Eagles” bond stays in the family.”

Lorraine O’Connor & Michelle Dockery – Elphin, Roscommon

Lorraine O’Connor & Michelle Dockery – Elphin, Roscommon

“There’s something rebellious about playing with your sister at our age,” they share. “No talk of work or school runs – just us on a patch of grass laughing until we cry.”

Susan, Margaret & Catríona Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Susan & Catríona Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Susan & Margaret Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

While they played Community Games as children, these three sisters were never on the same team until now. They represent their club in both Rounders and Camogie. This year, the bond grew even stronger as Margaret’s stepdaughter, Katelyn O’Dwyer–Guerin, joined the team, proving to be an excellent addition with her ability to hit beyond outfield.

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Having started in the 1990s but never sharing a lineup, these sisters have waited 30 years to play on the same team.

Noeleen & Brenda Greally – Skryne, Meath

Noeleen & Brenda Greally – Skryne, Meath

With Noeleen serving as Club Secretary and Brenda as Club Chairperson, these sisters aren’t just playing the game – they are running the show!

Marie & Jackie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Jackie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Marie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Marie and Jackie joined Elphin at its inception. For them, Rounders is the perfect balance of team sport and social connection.

Caroline & Nicola Noblett – Kilanerin Ballyfad, Wexford

Caroline & Nicola Noblett – Kilanerin Ballyfad, Wexford

Despite a ten-year age gap the two have found a shared passion on the field, proving that it is never too late to start.

Lisa, Laura & Róisín Lynch – St. Clare’s, Cavan

Lisa, Laura & Róisín Lynch – St. Clare’s, Cavan

Laura, Lisa and Roisin Lynch are integral to the heart of the club. Lisa anchors the team as catcher, Laura patrols centre outfield and Roisin keeps everything moving as PRO.

While Lisa and Laura have been mainstay players from underage to senior level, the three sisters are famous for the banter they bring to the team.

Coming later this week: Part 2 – The In-Laws, Partners, and Cousins of GAA Rounders!

CWL Winter Rounders League Ends Second Season in Style at Fenagh

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The CWL Winter Rounders League Ends in Style at Fenagh Centre of Excellence

The second year of the CWL (Carlow, Wexford and Laois) Winter Rounders League came to a memorable close on the final day of action at the Fenagh Centre of Excellence, Carlow, confirming the competition’s growing status as one of the highlights of the winter rounders calendar.

With teams competing across Women’s, Mixed and Social Women’s competitions, the league once again attracted strong participation from clubs across the three counties. This year’s line-up included Cuchulainn, Myshall, Glynn Barntown, St. Martins, Kilanerin, Kilrush Askamore, Emo, Oulart The Ballagh, The Heath, Leighlinbridge and Castletown Liam Mellows, all of whom contributed to a highly competitive and enjoyable winter programme.

Going into the final day, the stakes could not have been higher. Tables across the competitions were exceptionally tight, with nothing separating the top three teams, ensuring a dramatic and exciting conclusion. The standard of play reflected that tension, with sharp skills, tactical awareness and determination on show throughout the day’s fixtures.

Ultimately, Glynn Barntown claimed the Women’s title, Cuchulainn emerged victorious in the Mixed competition, while Kilanerin were crowned champions of the Social Women’s grade, capping off a hugely successful league for all involved.

The day was further enhanced by the presence of several national officials. Paula Doherty, President of GAA Rounders, attended and presented the trophies in what marked her first official engagement as President. Her attendance underlined the importance of the CWL Winter League, which was also recognised earlier this year with the President’s Award at the 2025 All Stars.

Also in attendance was National Secretary Shirley Lennon, who presented referee awards in recognition of the vital role officials play in the success of competitions such as this. Additional support came from Mark Jennings, Development Officer, and Michael Meaney, Central Council Delegate. Their commitment was rewarded, as they were treated to a full day of high-quality rounders — a drive that was well worth it.

The action on the field concluded with Women’s and Men’s exhibition games, featuring the best players from across the CWL clubs. These showcase matches provided a fitting finale, highlighting the talent, depth and future potential within the region.

Following the games, players, officials and supporters gathered in The Hunter’s Rest, Fenagh, for the presentation ceremony. The relaxed and celebratory atmosphere reflected the spirit of the league, bringing everyone together after a long but rewarding winter campaign.

Now firmly established, the CWL Winter Rounders League continues to go from strength to strength. The competition is driven by an outstanding organising committee comprising Peadar Waters, Emma Reddy, Paul Cooper, PJ Lalor, Caroline Waters and Carmel Moloney.

As the second season draws to a close, attention has already turned to the future, with clubs and players eagerly looking ahead to what promises to be an even bigger and better third year of this standout winter competition.

CWL Committee Members
CWL Winter League Action
CWL Winter League Action
Cuchulainn Mixed Winners
Glynn Barntown Women’s Winners
Kilanerin Social Women’s Winners
Referee Awards Presentation
CWL Winter League Trophies

Darryl Dolan: “Enough hard work will take you anywhere”

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Darryl Dolan: “Enough hard work will take you anywhere”

There’s no hesitation when Darryl Dolan is asked about the greatest ever player.

If it’s a question of the Greatest, then Dolan doesn’t hesitate. “I’m going Damien McArdle,” he says. “He just wasn’t a power hitter for a home run. Damien has 15 men’s titles, 9 All-Stars. Retired for almost a decade in the middle and had 4 All-Ireland titles before the All-Stars were introduced — so really he should have about 15.”

He pauses only briefly before adding another name that rarely comes up. “Mick Cullen always gets forgotten about in big conversations because of the lack of All-Star accolades, but many years he’s been the best or one of the best players on the field in nearly every game.”

When it comes to memories, Dolan refuses to single just one out. “Really can’t single out a single one,” he admits, “but getting to share the field with some of the legends I watched train and play. And then the 2024 season was special as a new-look Eagles team after losing so many familiar faces. To see Fionn get man of the match and hoisted in the air after years of watching us play without an underage team — to see it reward him for his work — that was special.”

For Dolan, Erne Eagles is more than a club. “Home. It has been my home away from home and my club mates like family. Even when there’s disagreements 🤣 there’s always someone there if you need anything. And when everyone is there at an event, it feels like one big family reunion.”

He is quick to point towards the next generation. “So many to say at the underage brackets, I could name one in each team and the potential of them is almost limitless, just depends how far they push themselves — Adam, Alice, Aoibhe, Louis, I could go on and on. For the young players coming into senior this year? I’ll have to say Fainche Higgins has really made her mark on the game.”

The battles, he says, come in cycles. “It has come in waves and each year different teams. In men’s it was The Heath and then it transitioned to Carrickmacross. In the mixed, I’d have to say the battles with Glynn Barntown have been epic.”

But asked if any player ever truly dominated Erne, he’s dismissive. “No. I feel like we always adapt and we can ‘figure out’ players and adapt to them, so someone might be good on a day against us but we’ll be ready for them the next day.”

The greatest comeback? He doesn’t hesitate. “Too many to count — 2018 men’s final, 2019 final, the 2020 mixed final. But I’ll probably have to go with the 2021 mixed semi-final against Glynn Barntown. It was the greatest comeback I’ve ever witnessed.”

As for the toughest opponent? “Probably Ruairí Tracey, because we’ve gone head to head since underage so many times and I only ever got the better of him in senior. Now it’s the other lads on the team fighting to get a place 😅.”

He is quick to credit Carrickmacross too. “Without a doubt, the way they gradually learned, watched, and improved over the years. Starting slow and growing is very impressive and a lot of clubs could learn from them.”

And despite his own reputation, Dolan keeps returning to his teammates. “That I’m very lucky to have the teammates I have. They put up with me and temper me — trying to funnel my passion and energy for the game while making it enjoyable for others at the same time.”

Rounders has given him more than medals. “There’s something outside of Rounders??? Ah, I think coaching and teaching has been very interchangeable on and off the field, but the sport has definitely helped me hone those skills for other aspects of my life.”

For the younger players coming through, the advice is simple. “Just keep working hard and practice. Enough hard work will take you anywhere. Just because someone isn’t naturally gifted from the start doesn’t mean they can’t leave others in the dust with enough work.”

And if you ask him who the best nine he played with or against? “I am working on list,  I’ll send it on soon.”

Darryl can be found on Instagram: gaarounderscoach

GAA Rounders Senior Finals 2025 – Referees Confirmed & Ticket Info

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🎉 GAA Rounders Senior All-Ireland Finals – Referees Confirmed! 🎉

The stage is set for a massive day in Abbotstown this Saturday, 6th September – and the referees have just been announced:

⚾ Senior Ladies Final

🕐 1.00pm – Breaffy v Glynn Barntown

Referee: Chris Hughes

⚾ Senior Mixed Final

🕞 3.15pm – Breaffy v Erne Eagles

Referee: Philip Keane

⚾ Senior Men’s Final

🕠 5.30pm – Carrickmacross v Erne Eagles

Referee: AnnMarie Brennan

🎟️ Tickets are available now – don’t leave it last minute!

Come out and support the best of the best as the Senior All-Ireland Champions are crowned! 🏆