Gaa gaa over the GAA

It’s one of those quiet phenomenons that never register on a tourist’s radar: the Gaelic Athletic Association.

Consisting of hurling, football, handball and rounders, the Gaelic sports are played unprofessionally (that simply means the players are not paid) and bring out the most localised patriotic sentiments from Irish people. A real glimpse of Irish culture can be found at these matches as the sports churn and thrash through local newspapers and pub conversations. Heroes exist here that are never heard of outside of Ireland. Ever wonder what that funny looking hockey stick is hanging up at your local Irish pub? Maybe your next visit to Ireland should include a game at Croke Park in Dublin.

In any case, this year’s season kicks off this weekend with games across the country. See the GAA’s official website for game times.