TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA - GAA Handball
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TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
ANNUAL
REPORT
TUARASCÁIL
AN BAINISTEOIR Náisiúnta
Ba mhaith liom an deis seo a thabhairt chun fáilte a
chur romhaibh go léir anseo go McWilliam Park Hotel
inniu don Cruinniú Cinn Bhliana CLG Liathróid Láimhe.
would like to extend a warm no doubt that he will be a fantastic was especially popular among the
I welcome to all delegates to success in the role. I look forward to younger generation of handballers. On
the McWilliam Park Hotel for today’s working with him over the next three behalf of the Association I would like to
Annual General Meeting. As we years. I welcome his wife Elaine and thank him for his outstanding service
reflect on what was another action- his family and friends here today. during his tenure and I would like to wish
packed year in GAA Handball we can him and Annette the very best of luck
do so with immense pride at the I have no doubt that our outgoing for whatever the future holds. Although
performance of our handballers both Uachtarán Joe Masterson will Joe may be finished as Uachtarán
at home and abroad. welcome the break as he steps down today I know we will see him involved in
from his three year tenure and I am handball for some time to come.
We are heading into a very exciting sure his wife Annette will welcome the
period for GAA Handball with the well-deserved break too after what I welcome all our special guests who
imminent opening of the new National has been a hectic three year stint for are here today to join us as we reflect
Handball Centre. This, together with the them both where they travelled to the on another twelve months of success
2021 World Handball Championships four corners of the country fulfilling within GAA Handball.
just around the corner promise to be handball duties.
massive occasions in our sport. The past year has brought some
Joe has been an outstanding President fantastic memories and moments and
Today’s AGM sees us descend on for GAA Handball and has always we will reflect on all of these throughout
Claremorris in Mayo for what is a represented the Association with the report. Some of the standout
proud day for the county as one great pride at any event that he has moments of 2019 were as follows:
of their own takes up the position attended. Joe was always available
of Uachtarán of GAA Handball. to take a call for advice or to give his Emotional finals night in Ceannaras
Ballaghaderreen clubman, Dessie thoughts on any situation and he was It was a night filled with nostalgia and
Keegan, will today take the baton from a great assistance to me and the full emotion as handball said farewell to
outgoing President Joe Masterson as time team over the last three years. the iconic Croke Park Handball Centre
he completes his three year term. in October. Two finals nights filled with
Dessie has some great ideas for Joe has been a hugely popular President excitement and drama were a fitting
the game going forward and I have who made time for everyone and who farewell to the old centre. The sight
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 5
TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
of many of the legends of the game the last number of years but the Cavan
signing the front wall of the big alley Féile na nGael breaking records man proved that at 39 years of age
where they spent many a memorable The introduction of a standalone he still has the ability to mix with the
finals night was a fitting way to sign Softball Féile proved to be a best when he finally achieved his long
off in the old centre. resounding success as 26 teams term goal and equalled Naty Alvarado’s
travelled to Wexford to compete record of 11 US Nationals titles when he
Kennedy rolls back the years in epic in the first ever standalone event. defeated Galway’s Martin Mulkerrins
Softball final The day was a huge success and it in the final in Los Caballeros, California.
Dublin’s Eoin Kennedy came into the was encouraging to see a number of A truly remarkable feat from a
final under the radar, as Westmeath’s teams from non-traditional Softball remarkable player.
Robbie McCarthy was hotly tipped clubs compete. The 4-Wall Féile was
to retain his title as a result of the held in Cork and Limerick and it also Double Night of celebration at All
imperious form he had showed so proved to be a massive success with Stars
far in 2019. However, Kennedy hadn’t 78 teams travelling south to take part. Two All Star events made 2019 a
read the script and in a fairytale With over 100 teams in total taking unique year within handball. Following
ending for the man who ruled the big part over the two weekends Féile the 2018 All Stars held in February in
alley for many years Kennedy showed was one of the outstanding success the beautiful Dunboyne Castle Ard
tremendous grit and determination stories of the year. Comhairle decided to bring the All
to defeat McCarthy in an absorbing
and epic final in front of a raucous
home crowd and secure a tenth and
probably the sweetest Softball title of
his career.
Record breaking She’s Ace
The She’s Ace tournament has grown
from strength to strength in recent
years. Last year’s event surpassed all
expectations with over 160 players
converging on Mayo venues for
the female only event. Two days of
entertaining handball, the competitive
4-Wall on Saturday and the fun 1-Wall
element on Sunday saw all ages and
abilities catered for.
McMahon & Casey continue to set
the bar for Ladies Handball
What more can be said about these
two fantastic athletes? We are
fortunate to be around to witness one WHAT MORE CAN BE SAID ABOUT THESE TWO
of the greatest rivalries not only in
handball but in sport in general. Rarely
FANTASTIC ATHLETES? WE ARE FORTUNATE TO BE
does an encounter between the two
fail to live up to expectations and 2019
AROUND TO WITNESS ONE OF THE GREATEST RIVALRIES
was no different with the pinnacle
being the 4-Wall final when the duo
NOT ONLY IN HANDBALL BUT IN SPORT IN GENERAL
served up yet another three game
thriller. It was Casey who came out
on the winning side this time as she Progress on National Handball Stars back into the calendar year with
edged out McMahon 21-19 in the third Centre the 2019 event held in November. It
while McMahon would go on to gain The past year has seen huge progress proved to be another outstanding
revenge in the Softball Singles final to made as the opening of the new occasion in what is quickly becoming
collect her third title. National Handball Centre draws the stand out social event on the GAA
ever closer. Excitement is building Handball calendar.
Hugely successful 4-Wall Final within the Handball Community in
Festival Weekends anticipation of the opening of the The 2019 season has been an
One of the big success stories of state of the art centre, the like of extremely busy year with a lot to
recent years has been the 4-Wall which has never been seen before in reflect on and be proud of as once
Finals Festival Weekends and this Irish handball or indeed worldwide. more Irish handball has excelled
year’s instalment was no different. This is the first centre of its kind to both nationally and internationally.
Huge crowds made their way to be built and will be a modern, vibrant A phenomenal effort has gone in to
Kingscourt, Cavan and were treated home for Handball and one that will running the programme of events
to two fantastic weekends of handball hopefully inspire the next generation from the National Office right down
for the singles and doubles weekends. of handball stars. to our clubs and with a hugely exciting
The quality of play on display all period for GAA Handball on the
weekend was outstanding with Brady equals Alvarado’s record horizon handballers everywhere can
several games going to tiebreak in Cavan’s Paul Brady may not have been look forward with great excitement to
order to separate pairings. to the forefront of Irish handball for the years ahead.
6 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020
ANNUAL
REPORT
4WALL
The finals festivals in Kingscourt
were a massive success once more
as players from all over the country
descended on Kingscourt over two
weekends to take part in finals from
juvenile level to over 70s.
This format of multiple games
across three days with all players in a
central venue has proven to be hugely
successful since its introduction in
2016. The format not only allows
spectators to watch several games
under the one roof it also gives an
opportunity for players at all levels
to play their finals in front of huge
crowds. Several games on Saturday
needed tie breakers to separate very
evenly matched pairings resulting in
a marathon programme of games on
Saturday that finished late into the
night.
One note of caution in relation
to the weekend is that finishing at
nearly midnight after the programme
commenced early that morning is
unfair on players, spectators and the
volunteer venue officials. This was
not a fault of scheduling or avoidable battle in the McMahon and Casey continued their impressive form from
delays but due to the unpredictable rivalry as the two best players in the 2018 as they captured the Minor
nature of handball games and the world locked horns once more in the Singles and Doubles titles in 4-Wall.
potential length of same. The obvious final. McMahon and Casey’s duels on Doyle was partnered by Abby Tarrant
solution to this is to change the the court are the stuff of legend now while McGinnity was partnered by
format of the games or to reduce the within the handball community with Konrad Kowal who became the first
amount of games played during the their outstanding skill levels and the Polish born player to win an All Ireland
day and this is something we need to tight tussles between the two. With Handball medal. The young Kildare
seriously look at going forward. Ladies sport overall on an upward lady is sure to make an impression
We are indebted to the Kingscourt curve these two supremely talented in the Senior ranks if her impressive
club for hosting both weekends over athletes deserve more recognition for Minor career is anything to go by.
the past number of years, it was an their talent and for the entertainment The 4-Wall Nationals took place in
enormous undertaking but one that they routinely provide. Galway and Mayo venues and were
you embraced fully and played a huge Casey went on to complete the once more a huge success. The open
part in making the event the huge double in 4-Wall as she, with her titles went to Westmeath’s Robbie
success it was. You can be very proud partner Aishling O’Keefe defeated McCarthy and Limerick’s Martina
as a club to have facilitated such a Roscommon’s Tully sisters, Fiona & McMahon following a cracking finals
major event over the last five years Siobhan to capture the Doubles title. day in the impressive Claregalway
with such great success. This was the Cork duo’s fifth title in Handball club.
At open level the competition the last six years. There was over 700 games played
is closer than ever with numerous At Minor level both Leah at National Level in the 4-Wall code
genuine contenders for the number Doyle (Kildare) and which is a huge undertaking for our
one spot in both Mens and Ladies. Eoghan McGinnity venues and officials around the
This year’s finals saw Westmeath’s (Monaghan) country over a five month period with
Robbie McCarthy retain the title he club, county and provincial games
last won in 2016 defeating Clare’s also adding to the burden.
Diarmuid Nash in a repeat of the Congratulations to Clare who
2014 final. Huge credit is due to both sit on top of the 4-Wall honours
players for providing a high-class list taking 8 titles of the 72 on
spectacle despite having to wait offer followed by Galway next on 7.
to take the court and finishing Wexford and Kilkenny follow close
late into the night. behind with 6 titles each. In all,
Clare’s Diarmaid Nash and 22 counties took home one title
Colin Crehan retained their or more over the course of the
Doubles title by defeating championships showcasing once
Galway brothers Martin and more the widespread popularity
Diarmuid Mulkerrins in the and the great work being done in
Doubles Final to capture their the 4-Wall code at present.
second All-Ireland Senior title.
In the Ladies, it was another epic
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 7
TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
SOFTBALL
The introduction of the first
standalone Softball Féile breathed
some much needed life back into
the Softball code as 26 teams from
across the country competed in the
Féile na Gael competition.
This was a huge increase on previous
years and with several traditional
4-Wall clubs taking part it gives great
hope for the future of the code to see
so many young players enjoying the
traditional game.
The Irish Softball Nationals travelled
to Wexford where a warm welcome
was received by all who attended. The
organising committee and the clubs in
Wexford deserve great credit for the
hospitality they displayed and also
for the condition of their facilities on
the day. Galway’s Martin Mulkerrins
broke his duck at senior level when
he took the Mens Open title with
Martina McMahon defeating Catriona
Casey to seal the Ladies Open title in
Castlebridge.
It was a nostalgic occasion as
the last Softball Finals Nights took
place in Ceannaras in September
and October. Kilkenny’s Kyle Dunne
had the honour of being the last
Minor champion in the old centre as
he overcame Monaghan’s Eoghan
McGinnity. Martina McMahon
ensured her spot in history as the last
ladies winner at Ceannaras as she
outgunned Catriona Casey in two
games in the Ladies Senior Singles O’Keefe ensured their status as the complete the clean sweep at Minor
final. most successful Softball Doubles level.
The Softball Singles final was played partnership in the Ladies game On both the Singles and Doubles
out in front of a large crowd with when they captured their seventh Finals night, we recognised the past
Dublin’s Eoin Kennedy rolling back the title defeating Kilkenny in the Ladies Senior Singles winners who joined
years to capture his tenth title with an Open Doubles Final. Kilkenny duo Kyle us on court for the presentations
outstanding performance to defeat Dunne and Billy O’Neill collected the which provided a fitting end to the old
hot favourite Robbie McCarthy. This final Minor title in the old centre as centre. There are so many memories
final had everything and was a fitting they defeated Monaghan’s Eoghan and so many stories from nights in the
finale to honour the finals nights that McGinnity and Tiarnan O Rourke. old centre and we now move to our
had gone before. It was an absorbing Kildare’s Leah Doyle (Kildare) had an new home and will make many more
encounter between two of the outstanding year as she captured memories as we watch the next batch
finest Softball exponents and the Ladies Minor Singles to of stars take to the courts and bring
one that will live long in the the magic of finals nights back once
memories of all who witnessed more.
it. A special commemorative booklet
Meath duo Brian Carroll was produced for the occasion and
and Gary McConnell ensured my thanks to all who contributed in
another title was added to particular Paul Fitzpatrick. One of the
the long list of title wins most pleasing aspect of the Softball
in Ceannaras for the Finals was the media coverage that
Royal County as they the finals attracted and I thank
proved too strong everyone who contributed to this
for Westmeath’s effort.
Robbie McCarthy The events of this year have proven
and Colm Jordan to be a positive start and should give
in the doubles hope that with the right promotion
showpiece. The and right attitude that we can build
Cork duo of Catriona a bright future for the Softball code.
Casey and Aishling With the Féile set to grow and more
8 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020
ANNUAL
REPORT
facilities in mind. While in Wexford
at both the Irish Nationals and Féile
ONE OF THE MOST PLEASING ASPECT OF THE SOFTBALL it was inspiring to see the pride that
the clubs had in their facilities with
FINALS WAS THE MEDIA COVERAGE THAT THE several Softball courts warm and
welcoming with a splash of colour,
FINALS ATTRACTED AND I THANK EVERYONE WHO proof of what can be achieved with
CONTRIBUTED TO THIS EFFORT. a can do attitude and a hard working
committee.
We must continue to look at ways
of improving the aesthetics of our
young players being exposed to the on children’s perception of the game current 60x30 venues and making
game it is vital we do everything we will be extremely positive. While many them more attractive places for both
can to encourage all these young challenges remain we must embrace players and supporters if we want
players to keep playing the Softball them head on and set a positive tone future generations to take up the
game. for the code and it’s growth in order code.
I have previously mentioned and I to see the next generation of stars The big alley needs more
would reiterate that we do need to develop. tournaments and more opportunities
be careful of the language we use I would hope the new centre will for players to play the game. Club
when talking about the code. Phrases inspire our current Softball clubs to tournaments are the perfect way to
like Softball is dead or dying or on its modernise their facilities and to make achieve this so I would encourage
knees immediately gives a negative them more welcoming to potential more clubs to take up the mantle and
impression of the code. If we, as an new players. Softball courts in general run tournaments.
association, cannot talk about the can be a vast concrete arena with In 2019 a total of 20 counties won
code in a positive light, then how can often little or no colour in a building titles with Tipperary and Kilkenny
we expect non handballers to have a that to non handballers has little leading the way on 8 titles each.
positive impression of it? charm or appeal. This is mainly due Numbers were in line with 2018 and
With a vibrant new modern court in to the fact that Softball courts are with a spread of 20 different counties
our state of the art National Centre, it much older buildings and were not winning titles this is encouraging for
is hoped that the impact this will have built with the modern-day sports the traditional game.
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 9
TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
MISSING CUP
Unfortunately the saga continues
with the missing Senior Doubles
cup. Last presented to Meath in
2014 the cup has not been seen
since which is most disappointing.
This is a most unfortunate situation
and is an insult to those legends who
received the cup and returned it for so
many years before. If anybody has any
knowledge of the whereabouts of the
cup I would ask them to come forward
to ensure that the cup is returned to
its rightful place as soon as possible.
WALL BALL
Over 400+ players made their
way west to compete in what has
become the best weekend in the
GAA Handball calendar in recent
years.
The Wallball Nationals is in my
opinion the best and biggest National
tournament in the World. The
introduction of player walk-ons and
music to the finals night added to
the atmosphere and was warmly
welcomed by all. This is something we
must build on to create a complete
package for players and supporters
going forward. on show the largest crowds were often work in Wallball and there is no reason
On the court the action was as surrounding the courts with juvenile why we cannot explore other ideas
competitive as ever. Galway’s Martin encounters taking place. for a Wallball All-Ireland to ensure
Mulkerrins came through a strong This year’s event was another the competition would be a success
field in the Mens Open to take the title major success and thanks must go to and would not have the dropout rates
following a final victory over Tyrone’s Breaffy House Hotel and the countless that the previous competition had.
Sean Kerr. The athleticism shown by volunteers who ensured the event ran I welcome alternative ideas from
both players in the final was a joy to smoothly. counties in this regard. We should not
watch. The Loughmacrory showdown once always have to do the same and run
In the Ladies Open Armagh’s Megan more attracted a huge crowd and is the same competitions for each code
McCann caused a shock by defeating growing in strength year on year while of handball as each code is different
reigning Irish and World champion successful tournaments were also and different formats might suit
Martina McMahon in the semi final to held in Mount Talbot and Inis Mór. better.
qualify for her first Ladies Open Final. The subject of a Wallball All Ireland We have a huge opportunity to
Galway’s Ciana Ní Churraoin came is a cause for debate at the moment introduce the game of handball on
through the other side of the draw to after CCCC reviewed the three-year a large scale to clubs and schools
qualify for her maiden final too and it trial and recommended that the through the game of Wallball and one
was the Galway girl who took home competition would not continue in which we must take advantage of. The
her first Wallball Open title with a two its current format based mainly on Wallball schools initiative continues to
game win over McCann. a high withdrawal rate that would grow from strength to strength but I
In the Juvenile grades the standard suggest there is not an appetite for an would urge clubs to tap into this and
is higher than ever with several high All-Ireland competition in this code explore club school links to avail of
quality encounters taking place over at this moment in time. I feel that potential new members and also to
the weekend. Such was the skill level the one game model does not really provide a pathway for the handballers
THE WALLBALL NATIONALS IS IN MY OPINION THE BEST AND BIGGEST NATIONAL TOURNAMENT IN
THE WORLD. THE INTRODUCTION OF PLAYER WALK-ONS AND MUSIC TO THE FINALS NIGHT ADDED
TO THE ATMOSPHERE AND WAS WARMLY WELCOMED BY ALL. THIS IS SOMETHING WE MUST BUILD
ON TO CREATE A COMPLETE PACKAGE FOR PLAYERS AND SUPPORTERS GOING FORWARD.
10 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020
ANNUAL
REPORT
once they leave school to continue in
the game.
With new and unique forms of
exercise in constant demand in this
country to beat the battle of obesity
and to get people active what better
way is there to get out in the fresh
air and exercise and all you need is a
ball and a wall! As a sport we are very
much competition centric but Wallball
can be the perfect recreation game
to keep fit, get active or simply just to
have fun.
Plans are still in the pipeline to host
a stop on the European Tour but the
issue is finding space in a packed Clár
to host such a weekend that suits the
European calendar of stops. Talks will
continue to find a solution and I hope
that this will be achievable in the near
future. Once up and running I believe
that this exciting venture will add to
the growing popularity of the code
throughout Ireland and across Europe.
HARDBALL
A total of 69 entries were received defeated neighbours Kerry’s Dominick The Juvenile Softball Finals took
in the Hardball Championships this Lynch and John Joe Quirke with the place in Moycullen and St. Comans
year with 46 games played across Minor Doubles title going to Kilkenny’s and again the standard was excellent
the championships. Billy O’Neill and Harry Delaney throughout both venues with several
following their victory over another high octane encounters taking place.
The number of withdrawals is still Kilkenny pairing of James Love and Eleven counties took part in the
very high in this code and this needs Sean Barron. finals with Cork topping the medals
addressing if it is to continue in its table with four titles while Galway,
current format. Roscommon and Tipperary took two
JUVENILE HANDBALL each and Clare, Kilkenny, Sligo, Tyrone
In an effort to promote the Hardball
code a decision was taken to stream The standard at Juvenile level in and Wexford all took home one title.
the finals live this year. all codes is incredible and this is Congratulations to all on the hard
On the honours front Robbie testament to the fantastic work work being put in to promote our
McCarthy continued his good run carried out by coaches throughout traditional game at Juvenile level.
of form in 2019 when he captured the country. You can all be very At the Wallball Nationals in Breaffy
the All Ireland Men’s title following proud of the great work you are the standard of the Juvenile grades
victory over Limerick’s CJ Fitzpatrick. carrying out. was exceptional with several high
The Minor singles title was won by class encounters taking place
Kilkenny’s Billy O’Neill who defeated Throughout the different Juvenile throughout the weekend. It was often
Meath’s Daniel Farrelly. The Senior grades they are littered with quality the case that the largest crowds were
Doubles title went to Cork’s Michael players each capable of forging a long gathered round the courts watching
Hedigan and Daniel Relihan who successful playing career in the game. an underage game such was the level
Huge credit must go to the coaches of quality on display.
and parents for the way these players At colleges level successful
have developed and the standards competitions were held in 4-Wall and
that they are continuing to reach. Softball. The 4-Wall Colleges took
The Juvenile 4-Wall Finals took place in Bawn, Corduff and Kells and
place in Kingscourt on the Festival like the Juvenile Finals the standard
finals weekend. The standard at these was exceptional with many familiar
finals continue to rise each year with names taking part representing their
this year being no exception. Fourteen schools.
counties travelled to the Cavan The Softball Colleges competition
venue to take part on finals day with took place in Clogh, Kilfane and
ten counties sharing the honours. Talbots Inch and again there was
Kilkenny topped the medals table some excellent action on show as the
with an impressive four titles followed up and coming Softball stars took to
by Wexford, Tyrone and Clare with two the courts.
each while Armagh, Cavan, Galway, It is getting increasingly hard to get
Tipperary, Kerry, Roscommon all took schools to commit to handball and
home one title. Congratulations to all to bring kids to competitions. This
the winners and to all the counties is often left to the volunteers in the
involved in getting to the finals. clubs to take care of and is something
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 11
TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA that is currently being reviewed FÉILE NA NGAEL tournament. The introduction of a with a view to coming up with some standalone Softball Féile proved to alternative colleges structures to The Féile na nGael tournament has be a resounding success as 26 teams grow the game at second level. It is been one of the real success stories travelled to Wexford to compete in hoped that the schools taking more in recent years for GAA Handball the first ever standalone event. When responsibility will take some pressure with numbers competing exceeding you consider that only two teams off the already overworked volunteers. the 100 mark this year between the had taken part in the previous couple Other juvenile competitions three codes. of years this represents a fantastic organised at national level were the increase in the number of young Gael Linn, the Team of Four/Six in The 4-Wall Féile was held in Cork and people getting the opportunity to 4-Wall and Softball, the Girls Team of Limerick and it was a massive success experience Féile and also to play the 6 in Softball and the Girls Team of 10 with a total of 78 teams travelling Softball code. in 4-Wall. South to take part. The event saw The day was a huge success and As an association we can be very 56 4-Wall teams (37 Boys and 19 it was encouraging to see a number proud that the structures we have Girls) taking part in 6 divisions with of teams from non-traditional in place produces the best juvenile Loughmacrory (Tyrone) and Lahorna Softball clubs competing. In the end players in the world. Right now, Ireland (Tipperary) taking the Division 1 Boys Loughmacrory and Lahorna made it a are a long way ahead of the rest of & Girls titles respectively very impressive double for their clubs the world when it comes to juvenile The Wallball Féile that was as they took home the Division 1 titles development and the standard introduced two years ago continues in the Softball to add to the 4-Wall of our juvenile players and this is to grow and this year an impressive 22 Division 1 titles won earlier in the year. something we should be rightly proud teams took part in the fantastic Conna This is a remarkable achievement for of. We must ensure that we provide complex with the Division 1 titles going both clubs and credit to the great the correct platform to keep these to Clogh Ballacolla (Laois) in the Boys coaching work being done in both fantastic players playing Handball and and Oughterard (Galway) in the Girls. clubs. try to prevent a drop off in numbers A wonderful welcome awaited As with the 4-Wall and Wallball when they progress from juvenile to the young Handballers in Cork and Féiles, the welcome afforded to the senior handball. Limerick with every club stepping up young players was second to none in There will always be a lure of other to the mark in terms of officiating Wexford with fantastic hospitality and sports, of social lives and other life and also hospitality in what was an top class officiating at all venues. This pressures but if we provide a clear excellently ran competition. Over commitment from our clubs helps to pathway and an exciting modern 350 games were played over the add to the experience for our young sport then I am confident we can and weekend over ten venues which gives players to give them a memorable entice them to remain as handball an indication of the level of effort that Féile experience. players. went into running such a fantastic I would like to thank the committees 12 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020
ANNUAL
REPORT
in both Cork and Wexford for the
fantastic job they both did hosting the
respective Féiles. Also, to our Féile Rep
Willie Roche and to National Fixtures
Officer Austin McKenna for their hard
work which is clearly paying off. With
over 100 teams in total taking part
over the two weekends Féile was one
of the outstanding success stories of
the year.
LADIES HANDBALL
The 20x20 initiative is at a crucial
juncture with the campaign aimed
at creating a measurable cultural
shift in the presentation and
perception of Women’s sport in
Ireland.
It is a broad-based approach with
three key metrics in mind to boost
media coverage, attendance at key
events and participation each by 20
per cent by 2020.
GAA Handball are delighted to be
part of this very worthy initiative
and look forward to being part of the
campaign over the next year. Over the
past decade, huge work has gone in
to developing and promoting Ladies
handball and the advances made
have been excellent. While there is still
more to do, we are heading in the right
direction.
Just this year I was delighted to
sit down with Nora Stapleton, WIS
lead for Sport Ireland, and she was
very impressed with GAA Handball’s
progress in terms of promoting ladies
handball. We had a full and open
discussion on the challenges facing Singles while the Bridín Uí Mhaologáin At the moment we are blessed to
ladies sport and in particular ladies Cup will be awarded to the winners be around to witness the outstanding
handball. I thank Nora for her time and of the 4-Wall Ladies Senior Singles. rivalry between our top two ladies
her advice and wish her well in her role. Munster GAA Handball have also players Catriona Casey and Martina
We are aware that although we are generously committed to donating McMahon, one of the greatest rivalries
doing a lot of things right it is vital a cup for the 4-Wall Ladies Senior not only in handball but in sport in
that we must continue to improve and Doubles competition. There are still general.
maintain these standards. It remains a number of competitions in both The duo have competed in the last
disappointing that there still a small codes that do not have cups but three 4-Wall Finals, six Softball Finals
number of our venues that have not steps are being made to rectify this so and the Worlds Final with five of the
got adequate changing facilities for that all our elite ladies competitions ten major finals going to tie break
Ladies and in reality this is not good have a cup to match the significance and each game being a spectacle of
enough in this day and age. Our top of the competition. I wish to thank handball. These two ladies have raised
female players do not receive the the Long family, Aidan Mulligan and the standard in ladies handball and
recognition that they deserve in the the Munster GAA Handball Board for continue to set the bar for others
media but unfortunately this is not donating the cups. to follow both at home and on the
just confined to ladies handball and The She’s Ace tournament has international stage.
we will continue to strive to better this grown from strength to strength I would like to take this opportunity
and give all our players the exposure in recent years. Last year’s event to commend those who are
they deserve. surpassed all expectations with over replicating the She’s Ace format and
Just recently Ard Comhairle 160 females converging on Mayo are running She’s Ace Events in their
approved two new cups for Ladies venues for the female only event. At counties. It is by showing this sort of
Competitions in honour of two the time of writing this report the initiative and continued hard work
prominent figures of the game. The 2020 She’s Ace tournament has that will see ladies handball grow and
Julie Long Cup, which is being kindly once more surpassed all previous reach its full potential.
donated by the Long Family and tournaments in terms of competitor It is encouraging to see more
friends of Julie will be awarded to the numbers which is a most welcome women involved at administrative,
winner of the Ladies 4-Wall Minor development. coaching and officiating level in
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 13TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
clubs and counties and this is a huge in Wallball is a priority for us and Aguilar to take the Womens Open
positive for the game. I would like to positive discussions around this have Doubles title defeating DCU pairing
see more female representation at been ongoing with the hope of finding Fiona Tully/Meadhbh Ní Dhalaigh
Provincial level and National level and a suitable date for all parties in 2020. I congratulate the ICHA on a
hopefully this will be the start of more As an association we must fantastic year and commend them for
getting involved. continue to work alongside our fellow the great work they are doing. I look
We currently have a wealth of talent associations in both the US and the forward to working with them once
in our ladies game with a host of top- rest of the world to grow the game more throughout 2020.
class players at senior level added to globally. I look forward to working
possibly the strongest ladies underage closely with our sister associations
crop of players in a long time and this throughout the world over the next
CLUB TOURNAMENTS
all bodes well for the ladies game. year as we build up to Ireland 2021. Once more a large number of clubs
While numbers in female grades hosted tournaments throughout
are steady there is always room the year and I compliment them
for improvement. There is a high
ICHA
for putting in the effort to host
drop off of girls in their late teens/ The ICHA had another successful tournaments and provide handball
early twenties and this is something year in 2019 and once more ran for members at all levels.
we need to address and improve some excellent competitions in all
numbers. three codes. Tournaments like the Gaffney
Finally, I wish to thank the She’s Tournament, Golden Gloves have
Ace Committee of Frances Ni The ICHA 4-Wall Singles event a long history behind them and
Churraoin, Paula Doyle, Paula Clarke took place in Belfast venues with continue to excel while newer
and Pat Murphy for their assistance Colin Crehan (UL) and Fiona Tully tournaments like the Moycullen and
throughout the year. (DCU) retaining their titles. The Breacach Open in recent years are a
4-Wall Doubles saw Galen Riordan/ welcome addition.
INTERNATIONAL Brian Mahon (UCD) and Fiona Tully/ The Lough Showdown once more
Meadhbh Ni Dhalaigh (DCU) take the attracted huge numbers while
Irish Handballers once more titles. regulars Mount Talbot and Inis
proved their dominance on the The Softball Singles saw Kilkenny’s Mor both catered for the Wallball
international stage with several Shane Dunne representing ITT and community.
victories for Irish players in the US Fiona Tully (DCU) capture the open There are numerous other club
in 2019. titles.The Softball Doubles Mens title tournaments held throughout the
In the US, Catriona Casey continued
her dominance as she captured the
US Nationals title and also the Race CAVAN’S PAUL BRADY REALISED A LIFETIME GOAL
4 Eight Players Cup. Cork’s Killian
Carroll, who is based in Boston, WHEN HE EQUALLED NATY ALVARADO’S RECORD OF 11
continues to dominate the Men’s
scene as he captured the Men’s Race US NATIONALS TITLES DEFEATING MARTIN MULKERRINS
4 Eight Players Cup.
Galway’s Martin Mulkerrins picked IN THE FINAL IN LOS CABALLEROS
up his first title on the US tour when
he took the Tuscon Stop of the tour.
Cavan’s Paul Brady realised a went to ITT with Shane Dunne & year and I congratulate all clubs on
lifetime goal when he equalled Naty Gearóid O’Connell) while Fiona Tully their successful events.
Alvarado’s record of 11 US Nationals capped off an impressive year joining Club tournaments are a fantastic
titles defeating Martin Mulkerrins up with Meadhbh Ní Dhálaigh to take way for handballers to get more
in the final in Los Caballeros. He the Ladies Doubles title for DCU. handball and also great social
also captured the New York Stop In the Wallball Singles LIT’s James occasions to meet handballers from
title defeating Westmeath’s Robbie Prentice took the Mens Open title all over the country.
McCarthy in the final. defeating Terry McElvaney (DCU)
With the 2021 World Championships while Aishling Mullin (NUIG) defeated
coming to these shores in less than 24 Eleanor Percy (NUIG) to take the
FIXTURES
months’ time, planning will commence Ladies Open. A quick glance at the competitions
to make this another World A strong representation travelled table will give you an idea of the
Championships to remember. to the USHA Collegiates 4-Wall number of fixtures that were
The success of the 2021 World Championships in the University of administered at national level
Championships hinges on good Minnesota where there was success in GAA Handball with nearly two
participation and buy in from the for the Irish in the Men’s Open Singles thousand games administered at
other member countries of the World where Galen Riordan (UCD) defeated national level over the year.
Council in order to provide credibility Tyler Stoffel (MNSU) and also in the
to the World titles. We want to Men’s Open Doubles where David When you consider that this does
encourage the best players in the Walsh/Adam Walsh (CIT) defeated not include club, county or provincial
world to come to these shores in 2021 Niall Joyce/Kevin Diggins (DCU). In games it gives you a sense of the
and every effort will go in to making the Women’s Open Galway’s Ciana weight of expectation on our
this happen and making the 2021 Ni Churraoin representing MNSU volunteers and venues to host such a
World Championships the best yet. defeated Fiona Tully (DCU) while vast fixtures programme.
An Irish stop on the European Tour Ní Churraoin partnered with Corina Often times when one competition
14 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020ANNUAL
REPORT
ends another starts immediately The job of administering fixtures is administrators and also to the
which increases the pressure on not often a very unforgiving job with very majority of other players who abide
only our Fixtures Administrator but little thanks. One huge problem that by the fixtures as they are set. I also
also on our venues and volunteers. We still rears its head is when players or feel it is extremely disrespectful
need to be cognisant of the pressure counties wish to change fixtures. The when players repeatedly seek fixture
that this puts on families who may rules surrounding fixture changes are changes.
have family members wishing to clear and one of the great frustrations There will always be exceptional
play in multiple events in multiple in organising fixtures is the blatant circumstances and the CCCC always
areas of the country. This needs to disregard some players and counties try to look at these in a balanced and
be addressed and a better-balanced have for these rules. fair way but it requires a common
programme of fixtures produced for Players organising games between sense approach and co-operation
everyone. themselves or pulling out of fixtures from players, county boards and all
The past year has seen at times a without notifying the relevant units to ensure everybody involved in
struggle to get venues to host games officials is not acceptable and shows fixtures are given the best platform to
due mainly to overloaded fixture lists a complete lack of respect to the run as effective a fixtures programme
and venues having multiple fixtures officials, the volunteers and venue as possible.
over multiple days. Venues are asked officials who all have an important I would like to compliment the
to cater for club, county, provincial role to play. With the amount of ways National Fixtures Officer Austin
and national fixtures and often the now available to contact people McKenna and the CCCC for the
venues in the most accessible parts nowadays this is really not acceptable. excellent job they carry out year in
of the country become inundated. As We cannot expect people to take our year out in completing such a hectic
an association we have a duty to our games seriously if we want to treat programme of fixtures often under
volunteers to act on this and to try to our fixtures with such little respect at trying circumstances.
counteract the clear slide in available times.
venues and volunteers throughout When you consider that a fixture
the country. Otherwise we will see contains an opposition player, a
VENUES
the volunteers we do have becoming venue official, a referee and possibly Without venues we can have no
burnt out and it will be too late to stop supporters who all have made time fixtures so to those venues who
it. for the original fixture and are now have stood up once more in the last
There is a responsibility too on our been asked to accommodate a fixture year I say a huge thank you, you are
county boards and our players to change often at short notice you making a huge contribution to the
respect the fixtures list and to work get a sense that it is not always just success of our sport.
with the CCCC instead of against as simple as two players agreeing
them to enable the fixtures list to run between themselves to rearrange a The standard of hosting for our
off smoothly. fixture. It is unfair on venue officials, National events has been exemplary
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 15TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
in recent years and 2019 was no welcome, top class venues and on committees at local level. Of our
different. officiating. Breaffy House hosted current volunteers we have seen
Wexford hosted two exceptional another excellent Wallball Nationals a number of clubs and volunteers
Softball events with the Softball while Ceannaras in Croke Park played decline to host fixtures over the past
Nationals and Softball Féile heading host to the last ever finals in the old year mainly due to the sheer amount
to the Sunny South East. The handball centre. of time that fixture programmes take
welcome received by all players, the When you add to this the hundreds and a lack of help at ground level in
excellent venues and the efficient of venues who hosted individual hosting same.
hosting made the two events very games throughout our major A lot of volunteers are also players,
enjoyable. championships and team events but it is impossible to keep the
Galway/Mayo once more stood up you see a phenomenal example of volume of games going and expect
to the plate to run the Adult Nationals all that is good about volunteering people to play and volunteer in the
for the second year in a row. Again in our sport. We are blessed to have current climate. People are more time
the clubs in both counties were some amazing venues and amazing sensitive nowadays and have other
excellent with plenty of volunteers volunteers who make hosting events commitments and we must look at
and the competition was efficiently a pleasure throughout the country. ways to alleviate the pressure on our
run. The Junior Nationals went north I would like to offer thanks on venues and volunteers.
to Tyrone/Monaghan/Armagh with behalf of all the association to our We will prioritise efforts to try and
the finals held in the impressive venues who hosted games from attract more people into volunteering
Bracach Handball club and was a major national events down to club in GAA Handball and to do this
huge success with players receiving championships throughout the year. we need to create an attractive
excellent hospitality in every club and It is hugely appreciated and is a major environment for volunteers that is
a huge volunteer effort was evident credit to you all. both rewarding and enjoyable. Many
over the weekend. hands make light work and we can
The 4-Wall Féile headed for Cork never have too many volunteers. At
with Limerick lending their assistance
VOLUNTEERS national level we will continue to look
and as outlined above the Féile We are indebted to our network at meaningful initiatives to energise
experience for the competing players of volunteers throughout the our current volunteers and attract
was enhanced by the excellent country who ensure that our sport new volunteers. This must be a
hosting of all clubs involved. Once is in safe hands at the moment. priority for us all in 2020.
more the Kingscourt club was From venue officials to coaches to In 2019, a total of 1948 games were
impeccable and hosted the two referees to administrators we are played across 223 venues. This is
major 4-Wall Festival weekends. blessed to have a fantastic group of a phenomenal undertaking by our
Mayo venues hosted the Annual volunteers in our sport at present. network of clubs and volunteers. I
She’s Ace tournament and as is the salute you all for your dedication to
case every year they did a fantastic In recent years we have seen a decline the game it is very much appreciated.
job with all players receiving a warm in new volunteers taking up positions
16 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020ANNUAL
REPORT
CLUBS together we will grow our sport from
The club is the lifeblood of GAA the club level up.
Handball. It is at club level that The Club Iontach programme
the game can only ever truly was launched this year by our
grow and attract new players. Development team. Club Iontach is
GAA Handball’s new quality standards
With this in mind GAA Handball programme for Handball Clubs
welcomed the appointment of across Ireland. The programme was
Pauric Dowdall to the positon of Club devised to help guide clubs to achieve
Support Officer earlier this year. I hope minimum operating standards in core
you would all join me in welcoming areas, aimed at improving all aspects
Pauric to the team and we wish him of club development.
the very best of luck in his role. We are confident that there is
Pauric’s role will concentrate on something in this document that
club development and support and have managed to raise funds and all clubs can learn from as they
will run a number of initiatives to to upgrade their facilities over the continuously endeavour to create
help strengthen our clubs. This is a last year and I congratulate them for positive sporting experiences in
very positive addition in our plans to having the foresight and commitment a safe, enjoyable and supportive
support our club network. to do so. It takes a supreme effort to environment.
November saw the first ever Club do so but the reward is worthwhile. There is no deadline for completion,
Forum take place with 35 clubs I would encourage clubs to learn instead clubs can work at their
represented on the day. The day was from those clubs who have already own pace for accreditation. We
a resounding success with several been successful in fundraising and are confident that all clubs who
informative talks and interactive obtaining grants as we can all assist sign up will reap the rewards and
sessions held. This is the first of each other in developing our clubs. inevitably grow stronger as a club. The
a number of initiatives aimed at This was one key aspect of the development staff at GAA Handball
helping our club network to thrive and Club Forum in November that was are always on hand for guidance when
prosper. warmly welcomed as a number of required.
Throughout 2020 a greater clubs shared knowledge in relation This is a fantastic scheme and one
emphasis will be put on club support to funding, structures, player that will help our clubs to grow while
and training for volunteers. Several development etc. operating to the best standards and
further club support initiatives and At national level we will offer all I encourage all our clubs to embrace
workshops to upskill our volunteers the support we can and by working the programme.
in areas such as Club Officer
Roles, Coaching, Safety, Recruiting
Volunteers, Fundraising etc are in the
pipeline for the coming year.
It is important that our clubs work NOVEMBER SAW THE FIRST EVER CLUB FORUM TAKE
with Pauric to enable them to grow
and prosper and that clubs make PLACE WITH 35 CLUBS REPRESENTED ON THE DAY. THE
every effort to attend any training
or development workshops that are
DAY WAS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS WITH SEVERAL
provided.
There are a number of clubs who
INFORMATIVE TALKS AND INTERACTIVE SESSIONS HELD
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 17TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NÁISIÚNTA
COACHING & DEVELOPMENT to be a great support to the full time CCCC for a decision when they are
Our Coaching & Development team team. Finally, I thank our National bound by a rule but then fail to bring
continue to perform to the highest Development Officer Darragh Daly a motion to the AGM to amend the
possible standards despite limited and Club Support Officer Pauric rule in question if they feel it needs to
resources and a lack of manpower. Dowdall for their continued hard work be amended. The easier option is to
that has achieved impressive results blame the committee who made the
In reality more Development Officers despite limited resources. decision instead of addressing the
are necessary if we are to truly realise issue and looking to amend the rule.
the potential of our great game on The CCCC have worked extremely
DISCIPLINE hard throughout 2019 and have been
a nationwide basis. This must be a
priority for our sport if we are to fully Our CCCC committee continue to consistent and fair in their decisions
realise our potential in developing the do their work under at times very and this is all we can ask for. I want
game throughout the country. trying circumstances. to thank the CCCC committee led by
Despite this there are a number of Kevin Cooke for the excellent job they
exciting projects that have happened As a committee they make decisions did in 2019 and would urge all units
or are coming soon. Last year saw that may not always be popular to work with the CCCC in the coming
the launch of the brand new Club but they have the courage and year.
Iontach programme and the GAA conviction to make them The new referee pathway was
Handball Academy both of which nonetheless as that is their launched in late 2019 and it is
are excellent initiatives. The Club remit and they are simply planned to set up a referees panel of
Forum in November was a huge following the rulebook. Many experienced referees to take charge
success with plans for further people who criticise them of the open championships. It is also
workshops and forums in seem to forget that they are planned to recruit and train more
the future. volunteers elected by their referees in 2020 to hopefully ease
You will see from the peers and they are trying to the burden on venue officials and
Coaching Report later make decisions in the best current referees. This is not as easy
on the volume of interest of the game. as it sounds as there needs to be
work that has taken A lack of knowledge a willing cohort of volunteers who
place throughout the surrounding the wish to become referees firstly. With
last year is impressive rules of the game the right pathway hopefully this will
considering the often leads to very attract more people to referee and
shortage of staff this unfair abuse been ease the burden on our current batch
year. directed towards the of excellent officials.
I want to thank CCCC arising out of decisions This will only be a success
our tutors who have made by the committee. however if players, officials and
delivered courses all over One source of frustration spectators observe our respect
the country and continue is when counties blame the initiative and respect the referee.
18 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2020ANNUAL
REPORT
show our voluntary administrators coverage in local media outlets. This is
the respect they deserve, they are very important in the overall context
volunteers at the end of the day of gaining media coverage as the more
and they have stood up to the plate coverage at local level then the more
often when no one else was willing likely it is to seep through to national
to. Maybe think about this before you level. I commend all the active PRO’s
criticise the next time. for their work in promoting our game
If genuine changes in personnel and achieving such coverage.
need to be made at any level, there From a TV and general media
are official channels in which to interest point of view, the fact that
do this and if a member feels that we will have a state of the art centre
they could do a better job then they in the confines of Croke Park will
are free to get involved and put hopefully remove some of the barriers
themselves forward for the position. to media exposure as the majority of
As an association we need to the national media are Dublin based.
provide more support and educate Once more our Live stream coverage
all administrators at all levels in their of our major games on Facebook
roles of what is expected of them and Live has been a resounding success
best practices in carrying out that bringing our games to a worldwide
role. If we do this and our members audience with fantastic viewing
allow them to do their jobs then the figures. This year saw over 80 live
administration of the sport becomes games streamed to a worldwide
a lot more streamlined and efficient. audience.
I commend all our administrators GAA Handball began streaming live
for the work that they do throughout games five years ago and it has been
the year and hope that they have a huge success since. The number of
found the experience enjoyable and live games continues to grow with our
some way rewarding. audience and potential reach growing
year on year. When you think that
our sister associations are only really
MEDIA/PR/COMMUNICATIONS beginning to explore live streaming in
The battle continues in what is the last couple of years it shows that
a hugely competitive field for we have been ahead of the pack in
There is absolutely no place for
media coverage yet 2019 saw an terms of online coverage.
abuse of officials in our game, they
improvement in media coverage for The work and attention that goes
are volunteers and have given up
our sport. into streaming an event is not always
their free time to officiate and they
noticed but it has become a valuable
deserve respect for doing so. The fear
Our All Ireland Softball finals attracted tool for us to showcase our sport to
of getting abuse for making a split
the best coverage in a number of mass audiences. We are constantly
second decision can often put people
years with coverage on RTE Radio, looking for ways to improve our live
off refereeing and this should not
RTE News, TG4 and in many of the streaming offering and introduced
be the case. All our officials should
National newspapers not to mention some of these throughout this year’s
feel welcomed and comfortable in
numerous sports websites. finals.
their role, mistakes will be made but
On a local level a number of counties I thank MacAV for their camera
everybody is human at the end of the
have forged successful relationships work throughout the year which as
day and we are all there to enjoy our
with local media and receive good always was excellent. I also thank all
games officials included.
Showing respect to officials should
not be an exception but the norm.
As supporters emotion can get the
better of us but this is still not an
excuse. Our top players need to lead
by example here too and the younger
generations will follow. We need to
create a safe culture for our referees
and officials and then we will see
more people volunteer to officiate.
COMMITTEES
Our provincial and county
committees were tasked with a
huge workload once more in 2019.
For a provincial or county setup
to operate efficiently then the
committees must be given the full
support and backing of the members
of that county/province.
I would urge all members to
Annual Report 2020 • GAA HANDBALL • 19You can also read
