Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Jarlath Burns during the GAA County Officer Development Conference at Croke Park. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
The County Officer Development Conference 2025, one of the GAA’s most anticipated annual events for learning and professional development, was held on January 17 and 18 in Croke Park, bringing together 230 County Officers from across the Association.
This two-day conference served as a vital platform for equipping both newly elected and experienced Officers with key knowledge, practical tools, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Feedback from attendees showed that the event delivered on its promise to prepare Officers effectively to drive their counties forward in 2025. One attendee remarked: “It is very invigorating to have so many good GAA people willing to attend and engage so positively. Great job in all the workshops and presentation of same - a most enjoyable and successful event.”
Highlights of the Conference
- Role-Specific Workshops - There were 12 workshops tailored specifically to the responsibilities of various County Officer roles.
- Thematic Workshops - Five additional workshops focussed on hot topics for counties at present:
- Enhancing Volunteering in your County & Clubs
- The Economic and Social Value of Gaelic Games on the Island of Ireland
- Infrastructure Development at County Level
- Marketing and Promoting our Games
- AI, Data Protection and Cyber Security
- New Officer Induction - The induction event on Friday, January 17, was specifically for newly elected or appointed Officers. It featured the launch of a new group mentoring initiative.
- Networking Opportunities: There were structured networking opportunities to allow Officers to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and work together on solutions to shared challenges.
View the full agenda HERE.
A number of workshops took place at Croke Park. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Inspiring Talks
The conference featured thought-provoking fireside chats, moderated by David Denieffe (Chairperson of the GAA Planning and Training Committee), on a variety of topics:
- Leadership in a Changing Association
An Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, spoke passionately about the evolving nature of leadership and its significance in the modern GAA. - The Value of Gaelic Games to Society and the Economy
Professor Simon Shibli shared key insights from his recent research, showcasing the profound social and economic impact of Gaelic Games in Ireland. - Telling Your County’s Story
PR expert Claire Aiken provided strategic guidance on navigating today’s dynamic media landscape and effectively communicating each county’s unique story.
The conference was a testament to the dedication of GAA volunteers, with the GAA National Planning and Training Committee 2024–2027 playing the lead role in organising the event. Workshops were delivered by a mix of experienced volunteers and GAA staff.
Attendees now return to their counties with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and stronger connections ahead of the Allianz Football and Hurling Leagues starting this weekend.
Watch the Highlights
Catch up on key sessions from the conference:
- Leadership in a Changing Association - https://youtu.be/1zB-FLZwleo
- The Value of Gaelic Games to Society and the Economy - https://youtu.be/FlavO2hbsHU
- Telling Your County’s Story - https://youtu.be/lltUBPWsAWw