As we move past an eventful March filled with several notable events and milestones for the Club detailed below, Spring is finally here! As as warm weather returns we're excited to get more involved with new local events, volunteer opportunities, and of course time together on the pitch.
Annual Ballyshaners St. Patrick's Day Parade
Despite the damp and chilly weather, the Washington D.C. Gaels brought warmth and energy to the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, proudly marching through the streets of Old Town Alexandria. Participating in this annual event has always been a great source of Gaelic pride in tandem of showing our comradeship. We appreciate each club member and their families that were able to support our community outreach and show their appreciation for the parade.
Washington D.C. Gaels in the News
The Washington D.C. Gaels found themselves in the spotlight not just once, but twice, as we had the pleasure of being interviewed by Fox 5 feature show DMV Zone (which can be found at https://www.fox5dc.com/video/1428566) and in conjunction with an Irish focused St. Patrick's Day morning interview which can be viewed below. Special thank you to the club members who volunteered their time to adjust to last minute changes of being interviewed on live tv. It was a proud moment for the club to be recognized and featured on such a prominent platform, further solidifying the presence of the Gaels as the figurehead for Irish Sports in Washington D.C. Additionally, we now have the recording of Chairperson Ronan Kelly’s interview with Newstalk Media which can be found here https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/868a29_be200ecad0f74aefa0e8280eb863371b.mp3
Irish Embassy Reception
Our Chairperson, Ronan Kelly, had the pleasure of meeting with the 41st GAA President, Jarlath Burns and his team at the Irish Ambassador’s St. Patrick’s Day Reception. It was an excellent opportunity to discuss the growth of Gaelic Games in the United States, and especially within the DMV. We look forward to continuing those conversations.
St. Patrick's Weekend 2023
Over St. Patrick's Day weekend, the Washington D.C. Gaels experienced an incredible turnout as we celebrated all things Irish at The Wharf. Gathered embers and supporters witnessed a vibrant showcase of Gaelic heritage through immersion in live music performances and sports demonstrations. It was heartening to witness the community come together in support for one another and have so many new individuals come to try their hand at the sports we hold dear.
Throughout the weekend, the Gaels' presence at The Wharf was nothing short of electric, drawing in crowds with their infectious energy and warm hospitality. New friends were made and not as many balls had to get plucked out of the river. Amidst the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day Weekend, the Gaels also hosted a special youth event in collaboration with our sponsor The Hunter's Hound, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among the younger generation.
Hunter's Hound added an extra layer of excitement, as young participants engaged in self-paced practice of Hurling, Camogie, and Football while parents, members, and family cheered on from the shade of the outdoor patio space. As the festivities came to a close, the Gaels reflected on the success of the weekend, grateful for the opportunity to share their passion for Irish sport and culture with the broader community.
Youth Development
Our youth development practices kicked off on March 24th for the Spring Season. Over 60 kids have been participating and developing their skills in Gaelic Games over the 7 week program! Thanks to all of the work by the Youth Development Committee, coaches, parents and volunteers in making this spring session a success. The continued support of the youth program will grow a future generation of DC Gaels. A special thank you to our sponsors who have directly donated money and equipment to grow the program.
EU Open House
Last year the D.C. Gaels continued their partnership with the Irish Embassy at the EU Open House Day 2023. Volunteers from across the club spent the day sharing the thrill and excitement of Hurling/Camogie and Gaelic Football with hundreds of people from across the country. As with last year, we were asked to return and continue our work in educating others in Gaelic Sports. The EU Open House will be held on May 11th, 2024. It continues to be an honor to represent both the Gaels as well as such an integral part of Irish culture here in the Nation's Capital.
Arlington Food Assistance Center Volunteer Event
We are proud to announce our first Volunteer event of the year. On July 20th, 15 of our very own members have dedicated their afternoon to supporting Arlington Food Assistance Center. This is just the first of many volunteer opportunities we hope to assist with this year. Volunteer events such as these build camaraderie within the club as well as build a lasting legacy impact on our local community.
Upcoming Club & Partner Organization Events
Ongoing Events
Sundays - Youth Development Practice, Avenel Local Park Field 2, Potomac MD. 10:30AM - 12:00PM
Mondays - Camogie Training, Avenel Local Park Field 2, Potomac MD. 6:45PM - 8:00PM
Tuesdays - Men's & Women's Gaelic Football Training, Avenel Local Park Field 2, Potomac MD. 6:30PM - 8:00PM
Wednesdays - Hurling Training, Avenel Local Park Field 2, Potomac MD. 6:30PM - 8:00PM
Saturdays - Men's & Women's Gaelic Football Training, Raoul Wallenberg Field DC. 9:00AM - 11:00AM
Upcoming Events
Saturday, April 27th: Mid-Atlantic Divisional Round - Game Day 3 (Men's Gaelic Football)
Saturday, April 27th: Philadelphia GAA: Gaelic Football 7's Tournament
Thursday, May 2nd: USGAA LGF Development Webinar: Fundraising 101
Thursday, May 9th: Mid-Atlantic Division Board Meeting
Saturday, May 11th: EU Open House 2024
Thursday, May 16th: IN-DC Social May 2024
Saturday, May 18th: Mid-Atlantic Divisional Round - Game 4 (All Codes)
As always, thank you for being a part of our club and we look forward to seeing you at one of our events.
