ULSTER GAA, in partnership with Irish FA and Ulster Rugby, hosted an ‘Inclusive Game of Three Halves’ at Meadowbank Arena in Magherafelt recently.

The event centred on three inclusive clubs, one from each sport: Ballymena Bears representing rugby; Coleraine Strikers representing IFA and Derry GAA for All representing Gaelic Games.

The teams, made up of players with different learning disabilities, had the opportunity to play all three sports; while their volunteer coaches upskilled on different coaching and games techniques, learning from each other.

“Participation opportunities for all abilities is one of Ulster GAA’s priorities.  This very positive event highlights how sport can be inclusive when the appropriate opportunities are provided. The participants had so much fun participating in all three sports and making new friends along the way. The coaches all took learning from the day too. We are proud to work with our partners in IFA and Ulster Rugby to deliver such important projects,” said Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin.

This programme was delivered through the Department for Communities Home for Lifelong Volunteering Project and supported by the George Quigley Fund. Sixteen volunteers were involved across all three sports in the delivery of this event.