‘GAA Dads & Lads’ is a social hurling and football programme for those keen to enjoy Gaelic Games outside the traditional competitive structures of the GAA.

Round Towers Lusk GAA Club started their ‘GAA Dads & Lads’ section in 2023. The group train on the club astro at 7.15pm on Friday evenings and aim to mix hurling and football.

The group played their first football match against Skerries Harps on a balmy evening in November 2024. Anybody interested in joining the group should call Naoise at 087 779 2358.

For males aged 40ish and older the emphasis is on the social interaction and enjoyment that only team sports can provide.

It offers games opportunities for retired players, lapsed players looking to reconnect with playing Gaelic games and those who never played and just want to give it a go. GAA Dads & Lads participants should not be registered members of a squad competing in official GAA club, league or championship games structures.

‘GAA Dads & Lads’ focuses on fun and participation.  Games are not competition based and there are no winners trophies or awards presented. The emphasis is on skills and playing over physicality and winning and encourages a ‘just turn up and play’ approach.

General playing rules apply but GAA Dads & Lads games must apply the principles listed below:

  • No formal competition structures.
  • Respect & fair play observed at all times.
  • Equal playing time for all players.
  • Incidental contact only – NO aggressive tackling.
  • Self-governing games – NO referees required.
  • No management teams/captains required.

Participation in GAA Dads & Lads is not covered by the GAA Injury Benefit Fund. Risk is an inherent factor in sport, as in life. When members voluntarily take part in Club activities particularly playing activities in contact sports, they accept the risks that such participation may bring. Each player needs to ensure that they have adequate cover in place to meet their own individual needs and personal circumstances in the event of accidental injury. Clubs should complete a games planning check in advance of taking part and ensure that all members are registered with the GAA.