As part of the Specsavers GAA Social Initiative, our club has been selected to arrange a bus providing the opportunity for older and more vulnerable persons to attend an Allianz League match in a county ground.
For many age-groups, GAA games and activities adequately meet their participation needs, however, as an adult gets older their needs alter while participation opportunities tend to diminish, increasing the risk of social isolation. The reality is that many become detached from their GAA club and the connection with what once was an integral part of their lives decreases. This can escalate further, leading to a reduced level of engagement with their community as a whole.
Prior to the pandemic, feedback from our clubs and counties highlighted the popularity of a match day trip for older and more vulnerable people. Reports stated a trip organised specifically for this group generated a sense of excitement for them. Attending the match and being seated in a designated area made them feel important, remembered, and included. Invitees said the experience of being amongst a crowd of supporters was enjoyable and entertaining, and opened the possibility of them forming or re-forming a connection with their local club.
The GAA were at the forefront of supporting our communities during the pandemic, particularly older and more vulnerable people who were shielding. Now that public health guidelines have been lifted, the opportunity is presented to support and encourage re-engagement of this population back into their communities and with their local GAA club.
With this in mind, we have chosen the Tipperary v Waterford fixture taking place on Saturday 11th March in Semple Stadium, Thurles at 7pm as an opportunity to get citizens from the Clonmel area up to see the game. We will facilitate the entire trip including match tickets and seating arrangements.
If you know any family member, friend or neighbour that may be interested in attending, please contact Brendan at 086 243 6893 by Friday 03rd March for further details.
