New York may play host to high-profile GAA game

The concept of a high-profile championship or league game in the US could shortly be put to the GAA.

This evening’s GPA fundraiser, the Irish-American Heritage awards, in New York is seen as the first step towards possibly either a prominent SFC/SHC or league fixture taking place in the country.

The official players body are keen to make this evening’s inaugural gala an annual event in the US and believe the idea of Gaelic Park hosting a televised game of substance would add gravitas to their fundraising efforts there.

As per the official protocol both parties have signed up to, Croke Park are supportive of the GPA’s efforts to generate revenue for themselves.

Currently, the “home” Connacht counties alternate playing New York at the Bronx in the preliminary round with 2013 seeing Leitrim make the trip.

The home winners of the province’s pre-season competition, the FBD Connacht League, are also rewarded with a final against New York, a trip which Mayo turned down this year due to player unavailability.

But there is a sense an annual competitive season game in New York could add more weight to the GPA’s fundraising endeavours in the US. The GAA may see it as a potentially gilt-edged opportunity to promote Gaelic games in the US, bringing them to a wider audience.