GAA’s games intelligence unit expected to return for start of inter-county season

The data collection and analysis body provided essential information to the Football Review Committee.

RETURN OF THE GIU: The data collection and analysis body was formed 12 months ago and led by Johnny Bradley in conjunction with SETU Carlow. Pic: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile

Having been stood down during the club window, the GAA’s games intelligence unit (GIU) are expected to recommence their work for the start of the inter-county season at the end of the month.

The data collection and analysis body, which was formed 12 months ago and led by Johnny Bradley in conjunction with SETU Carlow, provided essential information to the Football Review Committee (FRC) throughout last year’s inter-county season as it formed its rule changes.

So vital was their work that the FRC in their final report recommended the GIU be made a permanent structure “to provide ongoing data-driven analysis of game trends, rule impacts, and player welfare.”

That report in September stated the presence of the GIU along with an expert advisory body “will ensure that the game continues to evolve in a thoughtful, evidence-based manner, guided by the principles of fairness, enjoyment, and excellence.”

It is understood their remit could extend to hurling this season and apply metrics throughout the course of the National League and championship. A new dissent proposal for hurling, which entails advancing a free 30 metres, will be debated at Congress next month.

A plan had been put in place for the unit to continues its work in football over the autumn and winter during the county and provincial club championships.

The importance of assessing the impact of the new rules on the club scene had been highlighted by the GIU but monitoring of games was halted.

The FRC had first proposed the establishment of the GIU in October 2024 to “analyse all games on a weekly basis during the season to ensure rules are being applied and also identifying new trends in the game that may or may not benefit it as a spectacle.”

In their final report four months ago, the FRC also proposed the establishment of a Gaelic football expert advisory group “comprising experienced managers, players, coaches, referees, and analysts, to advise the Standing Committee on Playing Rules and ensure that future changes are informed by practical insight and strategic foresight.”

FRC chairman Jim Gavin remains a member of the standing playing rules body, which is headed by Liam Keane.

Meanwhile, the clock/hooter will not be in operation for this weekend’s four All-Ireland intermediate and junior club finals in Croke Park. The technology will also not be used in the two senior deciders at the same venue the following Sunday.

A decision was taken by the Central Competitions Control Committee for the clock/hooter not to be used in All-Ireland club semi-finals and finals.