Tag Archive for: Gogames

Affiliation Now Open for the 2026 GAA Rounders Season

Affiliation Now Open for the 2026 GAA Rounders Season

Affiliation for the 2026 GAA Rounders season is now officially open.

All clubs intending to compete in the 2026 season are reminded that affiliation must be completed by 5pm on Monday, 19 January 2026. Clubs should ensure that their affiliation form is completed and returned within the required timeframe to remain eligible for competitions in the year ahead.

Affiliation Fee Confirmed

The affiliation fee for the 2026 season will remain unchanged. 

Full affiliation details, including payment information and required documentation, have been circulated directly to clubs.

Winter Leagues – Important Notice

Clubs currently participating in Winter Leagues are strongly advised to complete affiliation as a matter of urgency. Timely affiliation is essential to ensure that Player Injury Fund cover remains in place for all registered players taking part in fixtures during January.

Official Club Email Addresses

Clubs are reminded that all GAA Rounders correspondence must be conducted through official gaa.ie email accounts.

The use of personal or unofficial email addresses is no longer permitted. This requirement is necessary to ensure:

  • Appropriate data protection standards
  • Clear and consistent communication
  • Efficient organisation of fixtures and competitions later in the season

Any club experiencing difficulty accessing its official email account is encouraged to make contact directly for support.

Further Information

Clubs with queries regarding affiliation are advised to refer to the information circulated directly or to make contact for clarification as required.

Completing affiliation promptly will help ensure a smooth start to the 2026 GAA Rounders season.

GAA Rounders underage Review

2025 GAA Rounders Underage Championships – A Season to Celebrate

From Féile to Minor, 2025 was another landmark year for underage GAA Rounders. Across every province, young players showed skill, spirit, and teamwork — the values that make our sport so special. With more clubs fielding teams and new regions joining the action, the energy around underage Rounders has never been stronger.

Back-to-Back GAA Rounders Féile Glory for Glynn-Barntown

At this year’s GAA Rounders U13 Féile, Glynn-Barntown of Wexford proved that consistency is the mark of champions. Their U13 girls successfully defended their title from last year, going back-to-back in style. It was another showcase of the club’s strength in depth, with sharp batting, clever fielding, and calm heads under pressure. Few teams manage to retain a national crown at this level — a testament to Glynn-Barntown’s commitment to nurturing young Rounders talent and their growing legacy in the underage game.

U14 Mixed – Erne Eagles Shine in Monaghan

After one of the wettest starts imaginable in Monaghan, the Erne Eagles of Cavan delivered a standout performance in the U14 Mixed Final to overcome Emo. Their composure in testing conditions and explosive batting display secured them a deserved title and showcased the club’s growing influence on the national stage.

Historic Win for St Martins at National Féile

The 2025 National Féile in Wexford also saw the introduction of a Mixed Competition — a milestone moment for the sport. One of the matches of the season unfolded in the final, featuring high-tempo batting, outstanding fielding, and top-class pitching. St Martins rose to the occasion, claiming their place in history as the inaugural Féile Mixed Champions.

Minor Ladies Final – Athenry Retain Their Crown

The Minor Ladies All-Ireland Final in Dunganny, Co. Meath on August 13th was a fitting climax to the underage season. The game between Athenry and Emo will be remembered as an instant classic.

The Final: Emo v Athenry

Emo came flying out of the traps with power hitting from Heidi Browne and Emer Dooley, supported by superb fielding from Rachel McMahon. They stormed into a commanding 17–6 lead after the first innings. But champions respond when it matters — and Athenry did just that, rallying in the middle innings to pull the game back to 29–25 heading into the fifth.

Athenry batted first in the final innings, putting up nine runs with clever placement hitting and intelligent base running. That left Emo chasing ten to win or nine to force extras. Athenry’s defence, led by pitcher Ellen Shaugnessy, catcher Izzy Gannon, and first base Meabh Murray, stood tall — restricting Emo to five and forcing extra innings.

Extra Innings: Champions Tested

Both pitchers raised their game when it mattered most. Athenry edged the first extra innings 2–0 and added five more in the second, leaving Emo needing seven to stay alive. Despite a brave fightback, Athenry’s defence held firm — with Gannon sealing the game with a brilliant at-the-feet catch. Athenry retained their crown, confirming their status as one of the standout underage teams in the country.

“This team, they just never let me down. Win or lose, they never let me down.”
— Peter Lyons, Athenry Manager

Emo’s Remarkable Season

It was also a phenomenal year for Emo GAA Rounders, who featured across multiple finals and collected titles in almost every age grade. From U13 to Minor, their commitment, coaching, and community support have set a benchmark for underage development nationwide.

A Bright Future for Underage Rounders

The 2025 season wasn’t just about silverware — it was about progress. Across every county, Rounders clubs continue to grow, new players are picking up bats and helmets, and the quality of play is rising year on year.

The launch of Go Games for Rounders has already taken off, with pilot events held in Limerick, Dublin, Carlow, Wexford, and Cavan. These successful trials set the tone for a new era — giving children a fun, inclusive way to experience Rounders through game-based play.

With even more regional events planned for 2026, Go Games expanding into additional counties, and at least one national event coming to each province, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

If your club would like to start an underage Rounders section, contact:
📧 juvenilesecretary.rounders@gaa.ie or childrensofficer.rounders@gaa.ie

2025 GAA Rounders Underage Championships – Roll of Honour

Grade / Competition Champions Runners-Up Third / Shield / Plate
U13 Féile – Boys Emo Michael Glaveys
U13 Féile – Boys Shield Erne Eagles Kilmeena
U13 Féile – Boys Plate Elphin Glynn-Barntown
U13 Féile – Girls Glynn-Barntown Erne Eagles
U13 Féile – Girls Shield Elphin Cúchulainn
U13 Féile – Girls Plate Emo Athenry
U14 Boys All-Ireland Emo Na Fianna Bronze: Michael Glaveys
U14 Boys Shield Erne Eagles Sean Connolly’s
U14 Girls All-Ireland Emo Erne Eagles Bronze: Sean Connolly’s
U14 Mixed All-Ireland Erne Eagles Emo
U15 Féile – Boys Emo St Martins
U15 Féile – Girls Emo Athenry
U15 Féile – Mixed St Martins Emo
U16 Boys All-Ireland Emo Na Fianna
U16 Girls All-Ireland Emo Erne Eagles
U16 Mixed All-Ireland Emo Erne Eagles
U16 Mixed Shield Sean Connolly’s Michael Glaveys
Minor Men’s All-Ireland Emo St Martins
Minor Mixed All-Ireland Emo St Martins
Minor Ladies All-Ireland Athenry Emo

Rounders Go Games Wexford

Go Games Rounders Pilot Shines in Wexford

Go Games Rounders Pilot Shines in Wexford

The Go Games Rounders pilot held today at Glynn Barntown GAA Club was a fantastic success, with five teams from three clubs – St Martins, Myshall, and hosts Glynn Barntown – taking part in a brilliant day of rounders.

Go Games is all about fun, participation, and skill development – and today delivered in style.

From the first pitch to the final run, the standard of play was outstanding. Players showcased great enthusiasm, teamwork, and effort – all in the true spirit of Go Games.

Glorious weather added to the occasion, as families and supporters enjoyed the sunshine and the exciting action on the field.

“A special word of thanks to Mai Doyle, who joined us on the day to make a presentation and support the event – a lovely gesture that rounded off the day in great style.”

Today’s event was another strong step forward in the growth of Go Games for Rounders, showing just how powerful and enjoyable this format can be for young players.

We now look ahead to the final stop on the Go Games express in Cavan on the 27th of September. That said, we’re happy to make one or two more stops along the way if other clubs are interested.

📣 These pilot events are helping lay the groundwork for a national Go Games roll-out in 2026.
Rounders Go Games Wexford

Rounders Go Games Wexford

Calling All Clubs: Become a Go Games Champion and Help Shape the Future of Rounders

📣 Calling All Clubs: Become a Go Games Champion and Help Shape the Future of Rounders

At GAA Rounders, we’re on a mission — and we want you to be part of it.

Following the incredible response to our Go Games for Rounders events taking place across the country, we’re excited to announce the next big step in growing our sport. These fast-paced, inclusive sessions have already sparked huge interest — and it’s easy to see why. They’re fun, welcoming, and the perfect introduction to the magic of Rounders in a relaxed, non-competitive environment.

🚀 Launching in 2026: The Go Games for Rounders Programme

In 2026, GAA Rounders will launch a nationwide Go Games programme — our most ambitious youth development initiative yet. This programme is designed to:

  • 🌱 Nurture young talent
  • 🏘️ Build community connections
  • ⚾ Bring the joy of Rounders to more children across Ireland

💪 We’re Looking for Go Games Champions

To make this vision a reality, we’re calling on GAA Rounders clubs in every county to become Go Games Champions — leaders who are passionate about youth sport, community engagement, and growing the game from the ground up.

What’s Involved?

  • 🏟️ Host a monthly Go Games blitz in May, June, July, and August
  • 🌍 Support a provincial Go Games event in September
  • 🤝 Collaborate with GAA Rounders to engage local clubs and county boards
  • 🌱 Inspire and develop the next generation of Rounders stars

What Support Will Clubs Receive?

  • ✅ Full training and ongoing support
  • 📣 Assistance with event planning and promotion
  • 🧤 Equipment provided for participating clubs
  • ❤️ A chance to grow your club and lead something truly meaningful

If more than one club in your county is interested, we encourage you to team up. Collaboration not only shares the load — it increases the reach and impact of the programme.

🌟 Why Get Involved?

This is more than just a set of events — it’s an opportunity to shape the future of Rounders in Ireland. Together, we can build a vibrant, accessible, and fun pathway into the sport for children in every county.

Whether you’re ready to sign up or just curious to learn more, we’re here to chat and guide you through the next steps — no commitment required at this stage.

🙌 Let’s Grow the Game Together

If your club is interested in becoming a Go Games Champion or would like more information, please get in touch:

📧 juvenilesecretary.rounders@gaa.ie
📧 childrensofficer.rounders@gaa.ie

Let’s work together to bring Rounders to more young players — and make 2026 a milestone year for our sport.

Go Games Rounders Pilot a Hit at Kevins GAA Club in Dublin

Go Games Light Up Loreto!

The Kevins Club in Dublin hosted a high-energy Go Games pilot for boys and girls aged 12 and under on Saturday, 10th May—and the reaction? A home run! While Go Games are well-known in GAA circles, Rounders hasn’t yet rolled out a full national version—until now. Judging by the smiles, cheers and non-stop action last Saturday, that might be about to change.


Mini Pitches, Maximum Fun

Over 80 children from Kevins, Na Fianna, and Emo took to the mini-pitches at Loreto College on Crumlin Road for an afternoon of fun-focused Rounders. Four games ran simultaneously between 3:30 and 5:30 pm. With the focus on skill-building and teamwork, no scores were recorded—just grins and great shots! The format encouraged clubs to mix boys and girls, creating exciting opportunities for kids to make friends, learn together, and enjoy the game.
 

“The Only Problem? Getting Them to Leave!”

That was the verdict from many parents, who praised the well-timed afternoon slot that allowed dual-code kids to join in after morning football or hurling. And the big bonus? Loads of new members signed up to Kevins thanks to the event!

 

Batting, Bowling, and Blazing Home Runs

The kids learned to bat, bowl, catch, throw and more. Many parents were surprised at the fast-paced sprints and sharp movements that aren’t as common in traditional GAA. It was skill development disguised as fun—ABCs, RJTs and communication skills all in action! And yes, there were Home Runs. Big ones. With even bigger celebrations. “I’ve never seen our kids run that fast on a hurling pitch,” one coach chuckled.

 

Special Guests & Big Smiles

National Secretary Shirley Lennon dropped in to lend her support, and All-Ireland winner Serena Scott gave out coaching tips and encouragement to future stars.

 

Survey Says… More Please!

Parents filled in a short survey after the event. When asked “Will your child play Rounders again?”, the most popular answer was a loud and clear: YES! Favourite activities? “Batting” and “Having Fun With Friends” took the top spots. Because that’s what Go Games is all about!

 

Want In? Here’s How

More events are scheduled throughout the summer in Dublin, and new clubs are welcome to try it out. You only need 9 players and a GAA pitch (35m x 35m) to host a Go Games Rounders event. No goalposts needed, just enthusiasm and a ball! If your club is interested, get in touch at secretary.rounders@gaa.ie.

Let’s bring the joy of Rounders to every corner of Ireland!