Mayo club to Participate in 2026 Gaelic4Teens Programme
Participants during the 2025 ZuCar Gaelic4Teens Festival Day at the North Campus, University of Limerick, Limerick. Picture: Tom Beary/Sportsfile
The Ladies Gaelic Football Association have announced details of its 2026 Gaelic4Teens Programme – with 20 clubs set to take part.
All four provinces and 15 counties, including Mayo club Burrishoole, are represented ahead of the annual initiative that will include a blend of educational webinars, in-person coaching days, and a National Gaelic4Teens Festival Day held at a central venue.
Representatives from each participating club will also benefit from sessions led by Gaelic4Teens ambassadors. In addition, clubs will receive a visit from a programme ambassador or a county player, providing hands-on coaching sessions that bring theory to life.
The programme features ambassadors who are current or former inter-county players, sharing their expertise and experiences throughout. The 2026 lineup includes Fiona McHale (Mayo), Laura Fleming (Roscommon), Bronagh McGrane (Louth), Cassandra Buckley (Kerry), Orlagh Farmer (Cork), Emily Martin (Down), Sharon Courtney (Monaghan), Sinead Delahunty (Tipperary), Samantha Lambert (Tipperary), Cathy Carey (Antrim), and Bernie Finlay (Dublin).
Having grown significantly since its trial run in 2017, Gaelic4Teens now supports clubs in retaining existing players and recruiting new ones, particularly within the 13–17 age group—a demographic identified as having a high dropout rate.
In addition to training, there is a strong emphasis on education. Ambassadors offer valuable insights and guidance to both players and coaches, helping clubs foster a positive, supportive atmosphere.
The Gaelic4Teens programme was developed in response to research highlighting the reasons players continue with the sport—such as enjoyment, staying active, decompressing, and social connections—as well as reasons for dropping out, which include limited playing time, lack of engagement in training, excessive competitiveness, and unequal treatment.
Looking ahead to the commencement of the programme, LGFA President Trina Murray commented: “As we prepare for the 2026 Gaelic4Teens programme, I am delighted to welcome the 20 clubs taking part in next year’s initiative.
“Each club’s commitment reflects a shared determination to support our young players at a pivotal stage in their sporting lives.
“The 13–17 age group has long been recognised as one of the most vulnerable to dropout, and it is vital that we continue to invest in structures that nurture their confidence, enjoyment, and sense of belonging.
“Gaelic4Teens has proven year after year that when clubs create an environment centred on growth, connection, and fun, players respond with renewed enthusiasm.
“This programme empowers coaches and volunteers with practical tools to engage teenagers, strengthen team identity, and build pathways that keep girls involved in our sport for longer.
“As we look ahead to the months of learning, collaboration, and innovation to come, I want to acknowledge the energy and openness that participating clubs have already shown. Your willingness to embrace new ideas and prioritise player wellbeing is what will make this programme so impactful yet again.
“I am excited to see the positive change these 20 clubs will inspire locally and nationally as Gaelic4Teens 2026 gets underway.”
