Leading the way in disability and inclusion initiatives

ULSTER GAA continues to demonstrate its commitment to disability sport and inclusion through a wide range of programmes and initiatives designed to ensure that Gaelic games are accessible to everyone across the province.

The Ulster GAA Wheelchair Sports Team enjoyed another successful year, with players continuing to train regularly at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena and St Colm’s Hall, Ballinascreen. These venues provide accessible and central locations for players travelling from throughout Ulster.

The team once again competed in the National Wheelchair Hurling League, securing a runners-up finish behind Munster following another highly competitive campaign. Throughout the year, the squad represented Ulster at tournaments in Coleraine, Limerick, Athlone and Galway before competing in the All-Ireland Championship in Carlow in September.

The achievements of the players were further recognised when four Ulster representatives were selected to play for Ireland at an International Floorball Competition in The Netherlands. The players involved were Sam McColgan (Donegal), Jason Mulholland (Derry), Paul Hannon (Armagh) and team captain Ciaran Bradley (Down). The Irish team was supported by Ulster GAA staff members Paul Callaghan (Donegal) and Shane McCann (Tyrone), who formed part of the management team.

Looking back on a glorious era for Armagh camogie

The Jack Henry Memorial Cup Family and Friends Wheelchair Gaelic Football Blitz also returned to Omagh Leisure Centre in March, providing another memorable day of participation, enjoyment and community spirit.

A key part of Ulster GAA’s ongoing inclusion strategy is the HERO Programme, an innovative initiative that allows clubs to recognise individuals with learning or physical disabilities within their communities. The programme gives clubs the opportunity to nominate a local HERO and create meaningful pathways for involvement, helping to ensure that everyone has a role to play within their club.

Another highlight of the year was the participation of All-Star teams at the Ulster Senior Football Championship semi-finals in Clones. The half-time games provided players with the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of large crowds, with up to 20,000 supporters attending, creating unforgettable experiences for players, families and supporters.

In August, the All-Star teams enjoyed another special occasion when they took part in Ulster GAA’s Activity Day at Croke Park. Playing on the iconic pitch was a memorable experience for the players and a proud moment for their families, many of whom witnessed their children achieve a lifelong ambition.

The annual Games For All Festival, hosted by Beragh GAC in September, was another outstanding success. Hundreds of participants from across Ulster gathered for a day of friendly competition, fun and inclusion. The festival continues to promote physical activity while creating friendships and strengthening a sense of belonging among everyone involved. This year’s event will take place in Cavan on 12 September.

Ulster GAA has also continued to improve the match-day experience for supporters with additional needs. During the Ulster Final, sensory packs were made available, ensuring that more spectators could attend games in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Supporting clubs and volunteers remains a key priority, with Ulster GAA staff delivering a new 90-minute All-Star Workshop for clubs interested in establishing their own All-Star teams. The growth in participation has created an increased demand for training and guidance, and the workshop provides volunteers with the knowledge and confidence to develop inclusive teams within their communities.

Throughout the academic year, Ulster GAA staff have also delivered wheelchair GAA taster sessions in schools and colleges, introducing more young people to the sport. In addition, Special School Blitzes and Games of Three Halves continue to provide valuable opportunities for students within the secondary school sector to participate in Gaelic games.

Through these initiatives, Ulster GAA continues to champion inclusion, accessibility and participation throughout the province. By creating opportunities for players, volunteers and supporters of all abilities, Ulster GAA is ensuring that Gaelic games remain a welcoming and inclusive sporting environment for everyone.

For further information, contact Paul Callaghan or Shane McCann at Ulster GAA.