GAA club bags awards for inclusivity

Michael Olney

There were big celebrations this week for a county Cork GAA club which received an award and cash donation in recognition of its inclusion and diversity programme.

Bandon GAA was up against stiff competition from GAA clubs across Ireland but was announced the clear winner for its All-Star Team initiative, which received a donation of €5,000 as part of the award.

The Bandon GAA All-Star Team was set up in 2022 to ensure all children regardless of ability would be given the opportunity to be part of a team and the club.

Before the initiative was established, club members spoke to parents and children and listened to what they could do as a club to make it more inclusive for children of all abilities. To date, the club has run 3 All-Star camps with 15 children and 27 coaches helping out voluntarily.

John Ahern, Underage Chairperson, Bandon GAA Club, said: “We are so proud of our All-Star team. These children show tremendous resilience and are a real inspiration to us all. We will certainly put the donation to good use within the club to make it as welcoming as possible for all children.

“We have a tremendous group of volunteers who help out every day of the week across many various aspects from coaching to management to fundraising. Without their hard work this would not possible,” he added.

SuperValu’s Community and Sponsorship Manager, John Kelly added: “Bandon GAA club and it’s All-Stars team are a real example of a club welcoming everyone and demonstrating that the GAA is an inclusive sport that can be enjoyed by all.”