Connacht Wheelchair Hurling & Camogie Club brings sport and inclusion to Athenry
Connacht players, including Pat Carty, centre, are led out in the parade before the 2024 M. Donnelly GAA Wheelchair Hurling / Camogie All-Ireland Finals at SETU Carlow Campus Sports Hall in Carlow. Photo by Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile.
On Sunday, 7 December 2025, Clarin College, Athenry, will host a landmark celebration of sport and inclusion from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
The event features an action-packed blitz with Connacht and Munster wheelchair hurling and camogie teams sharing the court with Galway and Limerick senior stars. Fans will also see GAA and Camogie All-Stars join current wheelchair All-Stars for a thrilling showcase of skill and teamwork.
This unique day aims to raise awareness, encourage participation, and celebrate the inclusive spirit of Gaelic Games. Importantly, this event also takes place in recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed globally on Wednesday, 3 December. By aligning with this significant date, the celebration underscores the GAA’s commitment to accessibility, equality, and inclusion for all.
Munster players and staff celebrate with the cup after their victory in the M. Donnelly GAA Wheelchair Hurling & Camogie All-Ireland Finals 2025 final match between Munster and Leinster at SETU Carlow Campus Sports Hall in Carlow. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile.
Adding to the excitement, the prestigious M. Donnelly GAA Wheelchair Hurling & Camogie All-Star Awards will be a highlight of the event. The honours include Wheelchair Hurler of the Year, Young Wheelchair Hurler of the Year, and Wheelchair Camogie Player of the Year, all announced live on the day. In addition, the All-Star Award winners from Leinster will receive their trophies at the AIB Leinster Club Senior Finals the previous day, in Croke Park.
Tanya Roberts Browne – GAA for All Chairperson, said: "This event is about more than sport—it’s about inclusion, community, and showcasing the incredible talent within wheelchair hurling and camogie. We’re thrilled to bring together senior teams and All-Stars for a day that celebrates diversity in Gaelic Games."
Martin Donnelly, Sponsor of the All-Star Awards, added: "Supporting wheelchair hurling and camogie has always been close to my heart. These awards recognize the dedication and skill of players who inspire us all. I’m proud to see this event grow and gain the attention it deserves."
The following recipients have already been confirmed as winners in their categories:
- Sean Bennett (Laois/Leinster): Goalkeeper of the Year
- James McCarthy (Limerick/Munster) & Paul Hannan (Armagh/Ulster): Backs of the Year
- Maurice Noonan (Limerick/Munster): Midfielder of the Year
- Cian Horgan (Kerry/Munster) & Ciarán Bradley (Down/Ulster): Forwards of the Year
- Ciaran Cushen (Laois/Leinster): Dedicated Player of the Year
- Maggie Farrelly (Cavan/Ulster): Referee of the Year
- Munster: Team Management of the Year
Join us for a day of sport, recognition, and community spirit.
For details about the event or to learn more about Wheelchair Hurling & Camogie in Connacht, please get in touch with:
David Cunningham at: developmentofficer.connacht@camogie.ie or Denis O’Boyle at: denis.oboyle.connacht@gaa.ie
