ULSTER GAA: Striving for inclusion for all

ULSTER GAA has continued to engage in various disability and inclusion programmes throughout the province.

The Ulster GAA wheelchair sports team trained regularly at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena and St Colm’s hall, Ballinascreen as these were central venues considering the geographical spread of the players.

The National Wheelchair Hurling League was again very competitive this year with Ulster finishing runners-up to Munster. The squad participated in tournaments in Omagh, Limerick, Athlone and Galway.

In September the players also competed in the All-Ireland Championship in Carlow. The ‘Jack Henry Memorial Cup’ family & friends wheelchair Gaelic football blitz was again a great success held in Omagh Leisure Centre in March.

Ulster GAA’s HERO Programme is a novel inclusion initiative that clubs can use to nominate individuals in their community.

This project will offer clubs the chance to choose someone with a learning or physical disability in their club or community to become a HERO. The programme will assist clubs in promoting inclusion in their communities by offering people with a disability an opportunity for them to participate in their local club in a variety of ways.

Again, one of the highlights of the year was the success of the half-time games featuring All-Star teams at the two championship semi-finals in Clones. This gave the opportunity for some of our All-Stars to play in front of their own counties supporters with up to 20,000 in attendance.

In August, the All-Star teams had a unique opportunity to play on the iconic Croke Park turf as part of the Ulster GAA activity day, with over 500 players taking part in this memorable experience. This event is very popular with parents and it can be emotional to see their child get to play at the famous venue.

The annual Games For All Festival was held in Kickams GAC, Creggan in September was another success, with hundreds of participants from across Ulster coming together for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie.

Additionally, two very successful regional games and skills blitzes were held in Liatroim Fontenoys and Michael Davitt GAC, Swatragh recently. These events not only promote physical activity but also achieve a sense of community and belonging among participants and club members.

Ulster GAA’s efforts to make Gaelic games more accessible and inclusive were further highlighted during the Ulster final, where sensory packs were made available to spectators with additional needs and the match program was offered in an audio format.

These initiatives ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy and experience the excitement of the game.

Furthermore, Ulster GAA staff have been diligently working to deliver GAA For All educational workshops for clubs interested in starting an All-Star team.

The significant growth in the number of clubs participating in these programs, from 12 clubs in 2020 to 58 clubs in June 2025 (an increase of 375 per cent), reflects the increasing interest and commitment to inclusive GAA initiatives in this area.

In addition, Ulster GAA staff have been conducting wheelchair GAA taster sessions in schools and colleges throughout the academic year, further promoting inclusivity and providing opportunities for individuals to engage in Gaelic games. Staff also facilitate special school blitzes and ‘Games of 3 Halves’ in the secondary school sector.

Ulster GAA’s dedication to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in Gaelic games is commendable, and their efforts are making a positive impact on individuals across the province. There is great support from the Ulster Games For All Committee and the club volunteers in making these events so successful.

By providing opportunities for all individuals to participate and enjoy the sport, Ulster GAA is championing diversity and excellence in Gaelic games.

For further information contact paul.callaghan.ulster@gaa,ie or shane.mccann.ulster@gaa.ie.