THE University of Limerick (UL) celebrated its close connections with the GAA with a special breakfast event.
The event, held at the Castletroy Park Hotel, aimed to highlight UL’s athletic achievements, as well as highlighting the shared views of community, inclusion, leadership, and excellence that connect both the university and the GAA.
UL GAA is the largest club in the university, and the second largest university GAA club in Ireland, with over 1,600 members across 25 teams.
The UL club works under the ‘one club’ model that ensures men’s and women’s teams receive equal support and resources.
Speaking at the event, University of Limerick’s Acting President, Professor Shane Kilcommins, said that the GAA acts as a unifying force within the college community.
“GAA at University of Limerick is more than just sport; it is a unifying force. It is often said that bitter rivals for club and county come together as one when they don the UL jersey. This spirit of unity and camaraderie is what makes our GAA club so special – and many will echo that in other institutions.
“We must cherish and protect that because it is a place where lifelong friendships are forged, and where the values of teamwork, respect, and perseverance are instilled,” Prof Kilcommins added.
UL GAA won 16 major university championships last year, a testament to the 135 coaching staff, 65 per cent of whom are students.
The event was also attended by GAA president Jarlath Burns, who said that creating a sense of belonging is integral to the GAA.
“At its heart, the GAA is about more than sport; it’s about building communities, fostering leadership, and creating a sense of belonging. UL plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders who will carry these values forward, on and off the pitch.”
The event also shone a light on UL’s elite athletes, including Limerick hurler Colin Coughlan, Meath ladies football star Mary-Kate Lynch, Clare footballer Daniel Walsh, and Waterford key camogie player Mairead O’Brien.
