Players from St Mary’s Aghagallon All Stars team had a fun-filled 3 days when they participated in the first ever GAA for All inclusive Cúl Camp held in Co. Antrim.
The Aghagallon club hosted the pilot programme in collaboration with Gaelfast and it proved to be a phenomenal success from the outset. 24 players from a wide range of ages and abilities registered for the camp and they were supported by over 20 coaches throughout. Players took part in Gaelic football drills, games and fundamentals. They also got to have fun in the specially created sensory and games area and the icing on the cake was a visit from the ice cream van as a special treat on the last day.
All Stars coach Claire Mulholland states, “This is the first time that the majority of our players have ever participated in a Cúl Camp. We are privileged to have been given the opportunity to host it in our club and are delighted that the players have gained a lot from the experience. Our players are learning new skills, making friendships and having fun and that’s what it’s all about!”
St Mary’s would like to thank Gaelfast for all their invaluable help and support with the running and organisation of the Cúl Camp. Gaelfast coordinator Paul Law stated “This week we had the pleasure of coaching at the All-Inclusive Cúl Camp hosted by St Mary’s Aghagallon CLG. We had 6 full time staff and 5 casual coaches working at the camp delivering fun GAA based games to the best group of ‘All Stars’. It was such a rewarding and enjoyable experience and we look forward to working with Aghagallon in the future to further develop this amazing programme. Special mention to Bronagh McCavigan and her team who started the programme last year and have taken it from strength to strength. To give the boys and girls an opportunity to participate in their own unique Cúl Camp was fantastic and a joy to be involved in. The Aghagallon club coaches were outstanding and worth their wight in gold. Our Gaelfast coaches have expressed how enjoyable the camp was and the relationships they built with the participants was something very special. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Aghagallon All Stars. Thanks again for the invite and see you again at next year’s Cúl Camp.”
Both Gaelfast and St Mary’s would also like to thank Bert Trowlen from the Saffron Gael who attended the camp everyday to take photos of the action and capture the memories. Thanks also to Tony McCollum from Antrim All Stars, based at Creggan, who has been a great support to the Aghagallon club.
The next big day in the GAA for All calendar is the Ulster Games for All Day which will be held on 7th September in Creggan Kickhams. Many teams from around the province will gather to play Gaelic games, learn new skills, meet friends and have fun. No doubt it will be another fantastic day for all.
If any Antrim clubs are interested in the GAA for All programne and would like to start a team please get in touch with Tony McCollum on 07752 700309
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