Support Gaelic Masters Football Team Ireland and Aware

Here at the Gaelic Masters Association not only are we Gaelic footballing old dogs, we are also stray dogs!

Masters Gaelic Football for over 40’s has been played in Ireland as an Inter County competition since 1990. For the first nearly twenty years it was organised and run by the GAA. In 2010 the GAA  withdrew their support.

Refusing to accept they were over the hill and realising the physical, mental emotional and social benefits of continued sporting activity Masters footballers from around the country rallied together and formed their own organisation the Gaelic Masters Association to promote our games. From humble beginnings a few short years ago in 2012 we have gone from six counties competing to twelve this year Mayo, Galway, Longford, Leitrim, Sligo, Westmeath, Ofally, Tyrone, Cavan, Monaghan, Antrim, Donegal with further teams set to join in 2017.

This year we are adding a new dimension to our games by hosting a touring Australian team who will play an Irish selection in two Test Matches this October one in Galway one in Cavan. The teams will compete for the Paddy Gaffney Memorial Cup in honour of former Irish Masters footballer Paddy Gaffney from Cavan.

Players and teams have to fund all costs of playing the game we love including insurance, playing gear and equipment, facilities, referees etc. Hosting the tour is placing a significant added financial burden on our members so we are seeking outside support from both individuals and businesses. 

We know we have the support of all true grass roots Gaelic fans and we are hoping you will demonstrate that support by making a donation and/or sharing with your friends.

The underdogs in the Gaelic Masters Association have shown tremendous resilience and spirit in going from near extinction to a thriving organisation and community in a few short years, help us keep growing and promoting our sport and healthy active ageing.

Finally, another difference here at the GMA is, we’re not just in it for ourselves.

GMA = Give Money Away

In recognition that health and specifically mental health is one of the primary benefits of continued physical activity the GMA will donate a minimum  20% of all funds raised to mental health charity Aware.

Aware is a charity close to our hearts  because men of our age group are particularly at risk for mental health issues and we have long promoted not just the physical but the mental health benefits of healthy active aging- ‘With Support Groups nationwide, a Support Line and Support Mail service, as well as education programmes for teenagers aged 15-18; Life Skills programmes for adults, and Wellness@Work education and training options.

Aware works hard every day of the year to ensure that mental health remains a key focus. They rely on events like these as well as corporate and public donations for 85% of their annual funding.  For further information please visit www.aware.ie ‘