In Pictures: Limerick children take part in programme that celebrates all

YOUNG boys and girls got the chance to emulate their heroes in the TUS Gaelic Grounds thanks to a unique programme that celebrates all talents.

Star Programmes in GAA clubs were set up for children with additional needs to support them in being part of their local GAA club. The main objective is to promote an ethos of inclusion and participation in GAA clubs.

When Oola GAA and LGFA Club set up their Star Programme they chose the name Ball4All. Tréasa Ryan said they felt the name was more relevant to Oola GAA.

“I was keen that ball could be for anything we turned our hands to, be it a football, sliotar, rugby ball, basketball, golf ball, balloon bubble, sensory ball, gym ball etc. At our sessions we like to think outside the box and allow our participants to try lots of different shaped balls and activities,” said Tréasa.

Their team in Oola GAA has grown and developed since 2021. This year, they had the idea that they would like to inspire other clubs in Limerick to set up similar programmes.

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“With the help of the Limerick GAA Health and Wellbeing Committee we organised a demonstration Ball4All day in the TUS Gaelic Grounds on Saturday, September 9.

"Children, coaches and parents from nine different Limerick and Tipperary clubs attended so that they could participate in a similar session to what we do - fun and games in a team environment with everyone helping and encouraging each other.

“The TUS Gaelic Grounds was a central venue for all and it also gave the participants access to our wonderful stadium.

"They were able to experience the stadium in a welcoming calm environment and grace the grass with their friends and families, go up the steps or sit in the Limerick player’s seats as one boy said. It was a fantastic opportunity for us to utilise the facilities to the benefit of our wonderful kids,” said Tréasa.

Following on from the success of that day, Oola GAA Ball4All, Munster GAA for All and Croke Park health and wellbeing team have organised a Munster GAA Games4All event in Mallow GAA Club this Saturday, September 23.

“Teams who run the Star Programmes from the six Munster counties are coming. We have coaches from each county and are expecting around 90 children for a session.

"This gives families the opportunity to meet other families in similar circumstances and also helps the clubs build their support network and share ideas. Everyone has something to share and learn from these day,” said Tréasa.