World GAA aspires for Gaelic Games to be recognised as an Olympic sport

OLYMPIC RECOGNITION: The world arm of the GAA is to pursue the possibility of Gaelic games becoming an Olympic sport. Pic:Scott Wilson

The world arm of the GAA is to pursue the possibility of Gaelic games becoming an Olympic sport.

Stressing that is a long-term, the strategic plan of World GAA released earlier today reveals plans for acknowledgement from 60 international sporting federations in order to obtain affiliation with the Alliance of Independent recognised Members of Sport (AIMS) before applying to the International Olympic Council (IOC).

The document reads: “In terms of the GAA’s aspiration to be recognised as an Olympic sport, it’s important to focus on achieving recognition by organisations like AIMS (Alliance of Independent recognised Members of Sports), getting recognised by the IOC, and ultimately achieving Olympic qualification status.

“Once Olympic recognition is attained, the GAA can then reassess its goals and aspirations accordingly. It is important to acknowledge that this process is likely to take time and success is not guaranteed. Nonetheless, taking the first steps towards this goal is crucial for the GAA.

“Recognition for team sports can be more complex, but by following the established criteria and exploring potential adaptations, the GAA can enhance its chances of Olympic recognition. Ultimately, the goal should be to work towards Olympic recognition and reassess future plans based on the outcomes achieved.” 

There are currently 573 clubs outside Ireland with 171 currently active in the US excluding New York which has 52, 112 in Europe and 97 in Britain.

Twelve years ago, Kilkenny hurling legend Henry Shefflin carried the Olympic torch from Croke Park as part of the build-up to the Summer Olympics games in London.

Launching the report in Newry today, outgoing GAA president Larry McCarthy said: “The World GAA Strategic Plan is a visionary document. It is a roadmap to strengthen our existing roots internationally, and to encourage World GAA to boldly go in search of new territories where our magnificent games of hurling, football and camogie, and the ethos of Where We All Belong can have an inspirational impact.

“The pillars focusing on coaching and games, health and well-being, officer training and PR and communications offer a solid foundation to build upon.

“The sun never sets on World GAA and this plan has the potential to provide more clubs, more teams and more friends to the international Gaelic games family.”