The Munster GAA Club Development Programme is a new and exciting initiative that recognises the pivotal role the club plays in all aspects of the GAA.

It is designed to assist and support clubs in developing a structure which empowers volunteers, delivers appropriate coaching inputs, and enhances the club structure to cater adequately for all members.

It will engage with both the adult and juvenile sections. Launching the project Munster GAA Chairman Liam Ó Loineacháin encouraged all county boards and clubs to engage in the programme stating that: “It is our plan to deliver this vitally important programme to each and every club in the Province.”

Every club participating in this initiative will receive a minimum of three visits. It is vital that all sections of the club engage in the process (adult committee, juvenile committee, coaches, officers, administrators, parents etc.).

Games Development Administrators (GDAs) will work closely with other support groups in the county and province to ensure all areas of expertise are made available to the clubs throughout the programme.

An initial audit of all clubs will provide the necessary information to deliver a programme that is suited to the specific needs of every club.

While we would prefer to deliver the programme ‘Face-to-face’, there is a specially adapted ‘on line’ version which ensures that it can be delivered during the current Covid restrictions.

The programme will examine and develop the seven pillars of a successful club: Coaching and Games Development; Volunteers and Recruitment; Communications and PR; Health and Well Being; Finance and Fundraising; Social and Community and Organisational Structures and Governance.

Chairman of Munster GAA Coaching and Games Development committee Gearóid Ó Riain stated that: “While the targets are ambitious, we are confident that we have the programme and the personnel to achieve our aims.

“Our vision is that everybody has the opportunity to be welcomed to take part in our games and culture, to participate fully, to grow and develop and to be inspired to keep a lifelong engagement with our association.”