The Gaelic4Girls (G4G) programme in Ballinrobe was a tremendous success, with 43 girls taking part over 8 weeks. This LGFA national programme was held in association with Ballinrobe Ladies Football Association. The programme targeted girls between the ages of 8-12yrs who were not part of a Ladies Football Club and introduced them to the sport in a fun environment. The girls were taught the basic skills of Ladies Gaelic football and then demonstrated their new skills through two separate days of mini games. The G4G programme concluded on 03rd June in Flanagan Park with the presentation of t-shirts and certificates to all participants in the Maple Youth Centre on Sunday 12th June. The Maple Youth Centre was full to capacity with all the girls, coaches, members of Ballinrobe LGFA and parents amalgamating for the presentation. The Co-ordinator of the programme, Aidrienne Gleeson, addressed the crowd and recognised the effort put in by all involved to ensure the programme was a success. complimented all the new coaches who helped out during the G4G programme, for all their work over the past number of weeks and requested them to stay and help with the Coaching of the U10 & U12 Girls. Aidrienne also thanked the D.J., our very own Martin O’ Connor who had a disco for the girls and all the parents & coaches that baked all the goodies for this special occasion. The girls were individually presented with their t-shirts and certificates by Diarmuid O’ Connor, whose surprise visit only heightened the excitement of the day for the girls. Some had photos taken with Diarmuid others got their t shirts signed. .It has been clear to see for all involved what a fantastic initiative this programme was and the consistent turnouts every Friday evening were justification that the girls enjoyed the 8 weeks. The enthusiasm shown by all was a joy to behold and bodes well for the future of Ladies Football in Ballinrobe. It was fantastic to see the dramatic improvement in the girls’ skills levels throughout the programme and all the participants really enjoyed the programme. Prior to the commencement of the programme all schools in the local areas were visited to promote the initiative. The girls made many new friends through the programme, another important benefit of participating in Ladies Gaelic Football. The G4G programme provided a safe and nurturing environment for the girls to develop their athletic and social skills. Most importantly, all the girls got the opportunity to play Ladies Football, with all different abilities descending on the pitch on a weekly basis. G4G has also served to integrate members of the community, with many different nationalities taking part and trying Ladies Football for the first time, with great results. All girls were encouraged to join Ballinrobe Club and to date 34 of the 43, 79%, have signed up and play with Ballinrobe U8s, U10s or U12s. We are hopeful that more of the girls will sign up after the holidays in September. Last week, 25th July the girls headed off to Croke Park to partake in their second Mini Blitz. This was a fun filled day where the girls participated in mini-games where they showed of their newly learned skills, (More on Croke Park to follow at later date). We encourage as many volunteers as possible to help out the club during training sessions and matches. All parents of the G4G Programme in Ballinrobe, older siblings of underage players in the club, former players, current players over 16 years of age and any other adults who would be interested in volunteering within the club are invited to come meet Aidrienne. If you are able to help out or would like further information, please contact Aidrienne on (086) 126 0136.
