Sean Og Finn of Clane in action against Ronan McConnell of Bredagh during the John West Féile Peile na nÓg Division One Finals 2024 at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Mayo. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile.
On Saturday, February 1, the GAA, in collaboration with Ulster University (UU), Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and other leading researchers in youth sport from Universities and Technological Universities from across Ireland will launch of the Gaelic Games Youth Participation Study, a comprehensive examination of youth engagement in Gaelic games.
Led by Dr. Paul Donnelly, Dr. Michael McKay (UU) and Dr Aoife Lane (TUS), the study explores the motivations, challenges, and trends influencing young players aged 13-20, providing invaluable insights to inform future strategies for the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Associations.
To share these findings and inform future policies and practices, the GAA will host a Knowledge Exchange Seminar: Informing Policy and Practice in Gaelic Games on Saturday, 1 February 2025, at Ulster University Sport in Belfast. The event will feature a keynote by Jim Gavin, workshops, and the official launch of the Youth Participation Study in Gaelic Games Report.
Register now to secure your place: Click Here to Register
Ahead of the launch, GAA.ie spoke with two key members of the research team, Dr. Paul Donnelly and Dr. Michael McKay from Ulster University, to discuss their groundbreaking study on youth participation in Gaelic games.
Q: What motivated this study on youth participation in Gaelic games?
Dr. Paul Donnelly: The drop in sports participation during the teenage years has been a recurring concern, especially in Gaelic games. While primary school participation is high, we see a marked decline at secondary and third-level education. This research aims to uncover the underlying reasons behind these trends and provide actionable insights to address them. Gaelic games are deeply rooted in Irish culture, and ensuring their accessibility and appeal to younger generations is vital for community well-being and the sustainability of the sport.
Dr. Paul Donnelly of Ulster University.
Q: What were the key findings of this research?
Dr. Michael McKay: Our study revealed several important trends. First, most players start Gaelic games at an early age—the average age of initiation is 6.2 years—with parents being the primary influence. Second, fitness, fun, and enjoyment were the top reasons for continued participation, while social connections also played a significant role. However, we found a notable drop-off in participation at secondary and third-level education, raising concerns about retention. The research also highlighted the critical role of coaching environments in shaping positive experiences and encouraging long-term involvement.
Q: How significant is the role of coaches in retaining young players?
Dr. Donnelly: Coaches are absolutely central to the youth experience. Our findings showed that players who reported a positive coaching environment were overwhelmingly more likely to continue playing. A great coach does more than teach skills—they create an atmosphere of support, encouragement, and autonomy. This environment builds confidence and a sense of belonging, which are critical for retention. For example, 96% of participants who felt supported by their coach intended to stay involved in Gaelic games.
Q: Did the study uncover any differences between male and female participants?
Dr. McKay: Interestingly, while there were no significant differences in the overall motivations for participation, gender differences did emerge in specific areas. For instance, males were more likely to cite competitiveness and aspirations to play at the inter-county level as motivations. In contrast, females placed greater emphasis on social connections and relationships with teammates. These nuances highlight the need for tailored approaches to engage both male and female players effectively.
Julie Lyons of Kilmacud Crokes in action against Aoife Flemming of New York during the John West Féile Peile na nÓg Division One Finals 2024 at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Mayo. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile
Q: What about multi-sport participation? How does it factor into the findings?
Dr. Donnelly: Multi-sport participation is vital for youth development. Over 60% of participants in our study reported involvement in other sports, but the average dropout age for non-Gaelic sports was 11.4 years. The primary reason was a preference for Gaelic games, followed by time constraints. This finding underscores the importance of creating environments where young athletes can balance multiple sports. It’s about fostering diverse skill sets and avoiding early specialisation, which can lead to burnout.
Q: What actionable recommendations emerged from the study?
Dr. McKay: Several key recommendations came out of our findings:
- Enhanced Coach Training: Focus on autonomy-supportive coaching techniques to foster enjoyment and confidence.
- Retention Strategies: Address the third-level participation drop by fostering stronger partnerships between clubs and universities.
- Targeted Outreach: Urban areas are underrepresented in Gaelic games participation, so targeted initiatives are needed to boost engagement.
- Multi-Sport Support: Encourage a balanced approach to playing multiple sports to maximize youth development.
- Gender-Sensitive Programmes: Consider the unique motivations and challenges faced by male and female players when designing programs.
Q: How does this research benefit the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Associations?
Dr. Donnelly: This research provides a robust evidence base for decision-making. It helps these organisations understand their youth participants better, identify gaps in their current practices, and develop strategies to improve retention and engagement. For example, the findings can inform coach education programmes, guide policy changes, and shape promotional campaigns to attract and retain players.
Q: Can you explain the methodology used in this study?
Dr. McKay: Our study followed a rigorous three-phase methodology. In Phase One, we developed the Youth Participation Survey in collaboration with focus groups of teenage players. Their feedback ensured clarity and relevance. Phase Two involved extensive data collection through direct emails, social media campaigns, and traditional media outlets, yielding 8,857 responses. After removing invalid entries, we analysed 5,049 valid responses in Phase Three to identify trends and insights.
Q: What role does this research play in the broader context of youth development and community health?
Dr. Donnelly: Gaelic games are more than just sports; they’re a vital part of Irish culture and community life. By enhancing youth participation, we’re not only promoting physical activity but also fostering social inclusion, mental well-being, and personal growth. This research underscores how sport can serve as a vehicle for positive societal outcomes.
Peter Jackman of Oulart The Ballagh, Wexford, in action against Alex Carrasco of Faythe Harriers, Wexford, during the John West Féile na nGael Camogie and Hurling Division One Finals at Hailo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence in Ferns, Wexford. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile.
Q: What’s next for this research?
Dr. McKay: We’re planning to expand this study with qualitative research, including interviews and focus groups, to explore specific areas like the coaching environment and gender differences in greater depth. Additionally, we’ll work with stakeholders to implement the recommendations and assess their impact over time. Collaboration with the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Associations will be key to ensuring the findings translate into meaningful change.
Q: Can you tell us about the upcoming Knowledge Exchange Seminar on February 1st?
Dr. Donnelly: Absolutely. We’re hosting a Knowledge Exchange Seminar on Saturday, 1 February 2025, at Ulster University Sport in Belfast. The event runs from 9:15 am to 1:00 pm and is open to anyone interested in youth sport participation. We’ll be presenting key findings from this research, featuring a keynote address from Jim Gavin, and hosting workshops to explore how these insights can shape future practices and policies. It’s a fantastic opportunity for coaches, policymakers, academics, and anyone passionate about youth sports to come together, share ideas, and drive meaningful change. We’d encourage everyone with an interest in Gaelic games and youth development to attend.
Q: What can attendees expect from the seminar?
Dr. Michael McKay: The seminar is designed to be both informative and interactive. It will begin with a tea and coffee reception, followed by the official launch of the Youth Participation Study in Gaelic Games Report. Attendees will hear a keynote address from Jim Gavin, focusing on building young players through the right coaching philosophy and motivational climate. Additionally, there will be presentations on evidence-based approaches to enhancing the player experience, including topics such as the influence of coach autonomy, gender-specific experiences in sport, and the role of Gaelic games in meeting global physical activity recommendations. The event will conclude with sports application workshops, facilitated by PhD researchers, where stakeholders will actively engage in discussions to explore how these findings can shape and enhance future practices.
Q: Who should attend this seminar?
Dr. Donnelly: The seminar is open to a diverse audience. We particularly encourage:
- Gaelic Games Stakeholders: Coaches, club officials, and Games Development Officers.
- Policy Makers: Representatives from the GAA, local councils, and sport governing bodies.
- Academics and Researchers: Those involved in sports science, management, and coaching.
- Health and Education Professionals: Individuals interested in youth physical activity and community development.
- Students and Emerging Professionals: Those aspiring to advance their careers in Gaelic games or sport-related fields.
The event promises to provide actionable insights for all attendees, regardless of their role.
Róisín Herlihy of Granagh Ballingarry in action against Holly Ryan of Bennettsbridge during the John West Féile na nGael Camogie and Hurling Division One Finals at Hailo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence in Ferns, Wexford. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile
Q: What support has made this event possible?
Dr. Donnelly: This seminar is supported by Ulster University’s Research Impact Fund for 2024-25. The funding reflects the university’s commitment to advancing impactful research and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to drive positive change within communities.
Q: How can interested individuals participate?
Dr. Donnelly: We encourage everyone with an interest in youth sport participation, Gaelic games, or community development to attend. Whether you’re a coach looking to improve player retention, a policymaker aiming to enhance youth engagement strategies, or a student eager to learn from experts, this event offers something valuable for everyone. Registration details will be shared through our website and social media channels. We look forward to welcoming a dynamic group of participants to this important seminar.
Q: Who was involved in this research, and how were they acknowledged?
Dr. McKay: This study was conducted under the auspices of the National Games Development Committee, led by Chair John Tobin and Director of Coaching and Games Development Shane Flanagan. Dr. Peter Horgan, the GAA’s Strategy, Insights, and Innovation Manager, spearheaded the research with support from an expert advisory panel. This panel included representatives from the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Associations, as well as researchers from universities and technological institutions across Ireland. We’re incredibly grateful for the input of young players from CLG Naomh Pól, Belfast, who helped shape the survey.
Additionally, this work would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of volunteers and Games Development personnel who circulated the survey and the young people who participated. Their contribution epitomises the Irish saying, “Ní neart go cur le chéile”—there is no strength without unity.
Q: Any final thoughts on the study’s impact?
Dr. Donnelly: This study is a testament to the power of research in driving change. It provides a clear path forward for Gaelic games to evolve and thrive, ensuring they remain an integral part of Irish culture and youth development for generations to come. We’re excited to see how these findings will shape the future of the sport.
The GAA will host a Knowledge Exchange Seminar: Informing Policy and Practice in Gaelic Games on Saturday, 1 February 2025, at Ulster University Sport in Belfast.