GAA History
Gaelic Games

The origins of Gaelic games predate recorded history.

Bardic sources provide an insight into the character of the pre-GAA games. Hurling predominates, but there are also references to football.

Fragments of the ancient Brehon Laws show that hurling was regulated from at least the eighth century. After the Norman invasion of the 12th century, hurling was proscribed by the English Crown.

Foreign visitors to Ireland in the 17th and 18th centuries noted that hurling and football occupied an important place in the social life of the community.

In August 1884 Micheal Cusack met a group of nationalists in Loughrea, County Galway, and outlined his plans to establish a national organisation for Irish athletes and to revive hurling.

The Gaelic Athletic Association is more than a sporting organisation. Although it is dedicated to promoting the games of hurling, football, handball, rounders, and camogie, the Association also supports activities which enrich the culture of the nation and further Gaelic ideals, including the Irish language and Irish music and dance. The GAA endeavours to strengthen pride in the communities it serves.

This history section contains all the results from the major competitions since the GAA was founded, as well as all the milestones down the years. There are also numberous articles of general interest. Use the buttons on the left to find your way through the history of this most unique and important part of Irish life in the last 115 years.