GAA 2011 Academy Pilot Programme launched at South West College

Delegates from Fermanagh County Board and the Ulster Council gathered at South West College Enniskillen Campus to launch the GAA 2011 Pilot Programme.  The South West College, is working in partnership with Fermanagh County Board and the Ulster Council, to promote Gaelic games in the Fermanagh region through developing a scheme that will enhance opportunities for potential elite performers. Through this pilot programme, called GAA 2011, the College is running a short pilot programme which will enable students to experience the various elements of Gaelic football and to realise their potential.

This programme embraces the development of Sporting, Leadership, Personal and Social skills which prepare the participant for a possible future in coaching/playing Gaelic sports.  It combines full time education with a training package, which allows students to play the sport they enjoy at an excellent standard, whilst gaining academic qualifications.   Mairead Boyle SWC Sports Lecturer said, “This is an excellent programme that will give young sports enthusiasts professional training in Gaelic games the programme focuses on key areas such as; goal setting, fitness and skills testing, strength conditioning, fitness using the football, kicking skills, passing & shooting, defensive play and tackling, forward play and creating space, speed development”.

To be eligible to apply for the 8 week programme students must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1st July 2010 and must be enrolled on a course within South West College.  All academic programmes are monitored carefully and training and playing time will depend on students’ commitment to their academic studies.  Experience of playing Gaelic sports at school level is desirable although not essential.  Students should be members of or affiliated to a GAA club. Students who apply will be invited to attend trials/selection.

Students’ main path of progression will be from their main area of study to university or employment;   however successful participation in the Academy will enhance students’ opportunities to progress to future involvement with the Fermanagh County Board teams.

Although places are now full on the current programme further information regarding additional programmes can be obtained by contacting: Mairead Boyle at SWC Enniskillen Campus Tel: 0845 603 1881 Ext: 2259 or email: mairead.boyle@swc.ac.uk

Media Contact:

For further information please contact: Clair McKenna – Marketing Manager SWC Tel: 028 8225 5229 Email: clair.mckenna@swc.ac.uk