U8 Go Games Hurling and Camogie blitz proves to be a success

The weekend of September 19-20 was a brilliant celebration of hurling and camogie, as clubs from every corner of the country came together for the National U8 Go Games Blitz.

Across the two days, 54 host venues welcomed 365 clubs, with more than 6,500 children taking to the field to play hurling and camogie. These numbers are remarkable, but behind every statistic is a young child picking up a hurl, making new friends, feeling part of their club and, most importantly, enjoying the fun of Gaelic games.

Events of this scale do not happen without enormous work behind the scenes.

Parents and guardians commitment is vital in keeping children involved in our games.

To the coaches and mentors, the patience and encouragement given to our youngest players is inspirational.

More than 6,500 children got the chance to play. For these young players, the memories and friendships made through days like this will stay with them throughout their Gaelic games journey.

It is hoped that the National U8 Go Games Blitz will become a regular end‑of‑season fixture on the Gaelic games calendar. If this weekend is anything to go by, there is huge appetite across our clubs to come together, celebrate our games and give our youngest players the opportunity to enjoy hurling and camogie.