THE English word ‘storm’ comes from the Proto-Germanic ‘sturmaz’ which means noise or tumult (chaos). Whenever we understand the origins of the word we can fully relate to the significance of its meaning. Being true to its name, storms are of course chaotic in nature while also having the ability to create mayhem and devastation […]
STEVEN POACHER: Knowledge is power as Newry coaching day looms large
IT’S around this time of the year that most coaches are close to finishing off their respective seasons across the province, whether that be with an underage or a senior team. Unless you are involved in the latter stages of championship semi-finals or finals, your season is coming to a close. A lot of coaches […]
PAUDIE KISSANE: Development is a journey
THE importance of GAA for kids’ development and enjoyment has been in the news once again this week for the wrong reasons. Coaching and playing structures for under age GAA clubs is much improved from when I started with the playing of more games and blitzes and training from u-6 up. When I was seven […]
STEVEN POACHER: Extra pressure will only make kids want to leave the sport
JUST last weekend I took my children to watch their Mummy play in a Ladies, Mothers and Others Gaa blitz organised by Mayobridge and I came away from it thinking how we could all take lessons from the day. All the teams at the start warmed up together, there was a complete emphasis on fun, participation […]
STEVEN POACHER: Learn while recharging batteries
IT’S around this time of the year that most coaches are close to finishing off their respective seasons across the province, whether that be with an underage or a senior team. Unless you are involved in the latter stages of championship semi-finals or finals, your season is coming to a close. A lot of coaches […]
PATRICK MORRISON: Look for inspiration
I HAVE been writing these goalkeeping columns for over three years now and I regularly have emails, texts and social media messages from players, coaches, parents etc. in relation to goalkeeping. One of the most commonly asked questions I receive would be: “Where do I get my inspiration from?” The short answer for this is […]
PAUDIE KISSANE: Coaching or telling?
THERE are many more important things in life than our great Gaelic games but because of the time and commitment required to succeed at the highest levels, it still plays a huge role in people’s lives. Consequently, along with the great joy the journey and ultimately the winning brings us, the losing can bring great […]
PATRICK MORRISON: Playing a game of angles
By Patrick Morrison I REGULARLY receive questions and queries both through email and while I am out coaching across the country about any tips or pieces of advice I can give in regard to a goalkeeper’s positioning. The questions come from goalkeepers of all different age groups, from clubs, players and coaches alike, and from […]
STEVEN POACHER: Take players out of their comfort zone
LAST Sunday was the showpiece day in hurling, the All-Ireland final between three-in-a-row chasing Limerick and the old dog for the hard road in Brian Cody and Kilkenny. I was absolutely glued to the game. I will be the first to admit I am not a huge hurling fan, but I couldn’t help but sit […]
Continual coaching development
THROUGHOUT Ulster, from a coaching and games perspective, one of our aims is to develop self – sufficient and sustainable clubs. The transition from underage level to senior level requires a great deal of effort, organisation, dedication and planning by many people. At this stage of the playing season the focus should be on continually […]