It was a big week for the club last week! The Central Division membership supported a motion we put forward that help us to grow and retain membership next year and in the coming years. The consensus was that the collective "we" need to support the growth of new clubs, including our own. This is a tremendous step toward stimulating even more growth of hurling in the region but particularly in the collar counties around Chicago. I would argue, however, that all clubs need a bit of help when it comes to growing membership. There are things each club can do to support its own growth, but GAA leadership at the divisional and national level need to find ways to increase awareness of the sport. I don't need to use this blog to talk about the brilliance and beauty of these games, but it is evident that encouraging awareness of the sport and providing encouragement and support to new clubs are keys to its growth trajectory and ultimate success. I look forward to contributing to these efforts.
Separately, we will be submitting our first Irish Sports Camp / Cúl Camp description to the Naperville Park District this week. The camp will take place for three consecutive days next summer in June or July, with the dates to be determined between us and the Park District. Here is the description:
Irish Sports Camp / Cúl Camp (pronounced "Cool" Camp)
This camp introduces kids from age 6-14 to two of the national sports of Ireland; Gaelic Football and Hurling. Exceptional coaches, including several from Ireland, will teach the basic rules of play and fundamental skills using a variety of fun games. Agility, hand-eye, and foot-eye coordination are developed as well as fitness in a supportive environment. Skills learned in this camp are transferrable to baseball, soccer, hockey, handball and lacrosse. Give your kids a chance to experience what kids play on the Emerald Isle!
We are also working on a youth program that will run weekly from April to June 2015. One of our aspirations has been to launch a successful youth program locally. It is important to us as parents but also to the long-term growth and success of the sport. Finally, we are still looking for field space for both an indoor winter youth program and an adult hurling program. As soon as we get more news on these things, we'll share them!!
Separately, we will be submitting our first Irish Sports Camp / Cúl Camp description to the Naperville Park District this week. The camp will take place for three consecutive days next summer in June or July, with the dates to be determined between us and the Park District. Here is the description:
Irish Sports Camp / Cúl Camp (pronounced "Cool" Camp)
This camp introduces kids from age 6-14 to two of the national sports of Ireland; Gaelic Football and Hurling. Exceptional coaches, including several from Ireland, will teach the basic rules of play and fundamental skills using a variety of fun games. Agility, hand-eye, and foot-eye coordination are developed as well as fitness in a supportive environment. Skills learned in this camp are transferrable to baseball, soccer, hockey, handball and lacrosse. Give your kids a chance to experience what kids play on the Emerald Isle!
We are also working on a youth program that will run weekly from April to June 2015. One of our aspirations has been to launch a successful youth program locally. It is important to us as parents but also to the long-term growth and success of the sport. Finally, we are still looking for field space for both an indoor winter youth program and an adult hurling program. As soon as we get more news on these things, we'll share them!!
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