27 November 2024

A landmark report has revealed the profound economic and social value of Gaelic games, marking a first for Irish sport. Independent research conducted by leading international experts estimates the Social Value of Gaelic games at a staggering €2.87 billion annually.

The Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis shows that every €1 invested in Gaelic games generates a societal return of at least €2.30, potentially reaching €3.96.

Commissioned by the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Association, the study was carried out by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sport Industry Research Group, with support from Manchester Metropolitan University and Ulster University. Over 13 months, researchers analyzed financial data from national, provincial, and county bodies, as well as over 500 Gaelic games clubs. This comprehensive review highlights both economic contributions and the immense value driven by more than 1,600 volunteer-led clubs.

Key Findings of the Report

1. Social Value Breakdown (€2.87 billion):

• Health Benefits: €31.06 million
• Subjective Wellbeing: €556.48 million
• Social Capital: €1.224 billion
• Replacement Value of Volunteering: €1.056 billion

2. Economic Contributions:

• Consumer Spending: €377 million (7.8% of the sport industry)
• Gross Value Added (GVA): €710 million (8.7% of the sport industry)
• Employment: 10,600 full-time equivalent jobs (9.8% of the sport industry)
• Total Economic Activity: €1.619 billion (10.2% of the sport industry)
• Government Revenue: €192.6 million in direct and indirect taxation

3. Impact of Major Events:

• The 2024 Ulster Senior Football Championship Final contributed €1.5 million to Clones and €2.1 million to County Monaghan.
• The 2024 Munster Senior Hurling Championship Final brought €3.2 million to Thurles and €4.5 million to County Tipperary.

Expert and Leadership Perspectives

Professor Simon Shibli, lead researcher, commented:
“This report demonstrates the dual benefits of Gaelic games: they are both economically advantageous and socially invaluable.”

GAA President Jarlath Burns stated:
“For the first time, we have concrete data confirming what we’ve long believed—Gaelic games create extraordinary value for communities and the economy across Ireland. This landmark study underscores the importance of continued investment in sport and its societal benefits.”

Camogie Association President Brian Molloy emphasized the role of volunteers:
“This report quantifies the incredible value of the work done by our volunteers and highlights the positive impact of our games on health, wellbeing, and the economy.”

LGFA President Mícheál Naughton added:
“This analysis shows how deeply rooted Gaelic games are in the lives of Irish people, benefiting both mental and physical health while also bolstering Ireland’s economic strength. It paves the way for a strong future for our sports.”

A Pioneering Moment for Irish Sport

This detailed assessment establishes Gaelic games as a cornerstone of Irish life, benefiting society and the economy on an unprecedented scale. As the first report of its kind in Irish sport, it sets a benchmark for measuring the value of sports in communities and underscores the critical role played by volunteers in sustaining and growing these activities.

For more information, visit GAA.ie.

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One of the hottest-anticipated tournaments on the entire sporting calendar in the United Kingdom, the World Championshipkicks off at Alexandra Palace on December 15 and runs until the grand finale on January 3.

The latest renewal looks set to be on a knife edge, with last year’s finalists Luke Littler and Luke Humphries inseparable in the PDC World Championship odds—both coming in as the 5/2 joint-favourites for the Sid Waddel Trophy.

Such is the nature of the tournament, with its electric atmosphere and extremely high stakes, that upsets can happen at any stage at Ally Pally. With that in mind, let’s take a look at three outsiders that could cause a stir at the upcoming World Darts Championship.

Michael Smith – 16/1

He might be second in the PDC’s Order of Merit, but Michael Smith is a 16/1 outsider to claim a second World Darts Championship this year.

The Englishman stunned three-time World Champion Michael van Gerwen with a 7-4 victory in the 2023 final, landing just his second Premier Event after winning the Grand Slam of Darts in the same year.

‘Bully Boy’, who won the World Cup of Darts alongside Humphries in the summer, has been runner-up in the World Championship on two occasions and could go on a good run this year if he can produce his best form.

Mike De Decker – 22/1

Ranked 25 by the PDC, Mike De Decker has potentially hit career-best form at the perfect time after picking up his first Premier Event recently.

The 28-year-old Belgian caused one of the upsets of the season when going all the way to the final of the World Grand Prix in October, ultimately defeating Humphries 6-4 in Leicester.

De Decker, who also beat his fellow countryman Dimitri Van den Bergh, James Wade, and Gary Anderson en route to his maiden major victory, has never progressed further than the second round in four World Championship appearances. But momentum could carry him this year.

Michael van Gerwen – 6/1

Not an outsider per se, but odds of 6/1 in the darts bettingmarket seem like exceptional value for a player of Van Gerwen’s calibre.

Indeed, ‘Might Mike’ hasn’t exactly been his indomitable self in recent seasons and hasn’t got his hands on the World Championship since completing the hat-trick in 2019.

However, Van Gerwen has knocked on the door in a couple of Premier Events this season, finishing runner-up in The Masters and World Matchplay and winning some silverware in the Dutch Darts Masters, as well as the Players Championship, bouncing back from defeat in the Grand Prix.

The Dutchman has a formidable record at Ally Pally, finishing runner-up on three occasions as well as his hat-trick of victories, and it would be foolish to rule him it.

—

While Humphries and Littler are undoubtedly the players to beat at this year’s World Championship, an upset is never off the table at Ally Pally and Van Gerwen, Van De Decker or Smith could be this year’s dark horses.

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Fixture Details

Saturday November 30th

AIB Munster Club Junior Hurling Championship Final
Russell Rovers (Cork) v Kilrossanty (Waterford)
Venue: Páirc Uí Rinn at 1pm
Referee: Alan Tierney (Tipperary)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on Clubber
AIB Munster Club Intermediate Hurling Championship Final
Cashel King Cormacs (Tipperary) v Watergrasshill (Cork)
Venue: TUS Gaelic Grounds Limerick at 6pm
Referee: Niall Malone (Clare)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on Clubber
Sunday December 1st

AIB Munster Club Senior Hurling Championship Final
Ballygunner (Waterford) v Sarsfields (Cork)
Venue: FBD Semple Stadium Thurles at 3:15pm
Referee: Johnny Murphy (Limerick)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on TG4

Tweets by officialgaa

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GAA LEAGUE Tables

Fixture Details

Saturday November 30th

AIB Munster Club Junior Hurling Championship Final
Russell Rovers (Cork) v Kilrossanty (Waterford)
Venue: Páirc Uí Rinn at 1pm
Referee: Alan Tierney (Tipperary)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on Clubber
AIB Munster Club Intermediate Hurling Championship Final
Cashel King Cormacs (Tipperary) v Watergrasshill (Cork)
Venue: TUS Gaelic Grounds Limerick at 6pm
Referee: Niall Malone (Clare)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on Clubber
Sunday December 1st

AIB Munster Club Senior Hurling Championship Final
Ballygunner (Waterford) v Sarsfields (Cork)
Venue: FBD Semple Stadium Thurles at 3:15pm
Referee: Johnny Murphy (Limerick)
Extra Time if Necessary (Result on the Day)
Live on TG4

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Sports betting has a fairly long history (with first reports dating back to betting on horse racing in the 18th century), but with betting now more accessible than ever throughonline sportsbooks and handy mobile apps, the pastime has gained unprecedented popularity in the modern age.Betting on sports is attracting plenty of new punters who arelooking to try their hand at one of the best ways to elevate your sports experience.

There’s no doubt about it, sports betting is thrilling. Clinging to the edge of your seat as the horses hammer down the racetrack, or your favourite team pounds a shot toward the goal, and wondering if all those stakes you have on your bet will finally come home certainly adds a level of excitement and engagement to sports that can’t really be found anywhere else. However, for beginners to the world of sports betting, it’s important to know the key tenets to keep yourself safe and make the experience even more enjoyable!

This article runs through five of the best tips and tricks for newcomers to sports betting to guide them on their betting journey.

#1 Understand the Basics of Sports Betting

As with any hobby, getting started without the basics willonly lead to fumbling in the dark. It’s essential that any newcomer to the world of sports betting gets to grips with all the key terms, and with those down, that mystical jargon on your favourite football betting site in Ireland will—like magic—all become clear.

Odds

At the heart of any betting experience, there are odds. In short, these represent the likelihood of a particular outcomeoccurring and dictate how much you’ll earn if your bet comes in. Odds come in a couple of forms, including

Types of Bets

The next key element is the different kinds of bets available. These are important to familiarise yourself with as, unlike odds, most aren’t quite as intuitive to guess by name.

#2 Set a Budget and Stick To It

It’s easy to get carried away when you’re having fun, but one of the biggest errors new bettors make is bad money management. The key to having fun betting is to never bet more than you can comfortably afford to lose. While there’s always a chance that a bet might come in, if you’re betting for fun, you should treat every bet as a lost one when it comes to bankroll management.

When you’re starting out, pre-set a monthly or weekly betting limit so that you can have fun without that niggle in the back of your mind that losing might spell disaster.

Of course, this only works if you stay disciplined. It’s important not to bet off emotions alone, and not to chase up losses with a bigger bet (a harmful habit that can be costly). As long as you stick to your sensible rules, you’re sure to have a fun time and be able to maintain a sustainable betting habit.

#3 Research and Analyse Before Placing Bets

Any semi-successful sports bettor knows the importance of research before placing a bet. Without doing your due diligence before putting money on the line, it’s easy to place terrible value bets and these avoidable losses quickly add up and take the fun out of the game.

However, it’s easy to avoid some of the simplest mistakes with a little bit of research and analysis before you lay your bet—a process that can quickly become part of the enjoyment. Some simple ones to tick off are predicted weather conditions, injury reports, and the expected team line-ups. This is a simple way to avoid betting on a player to score the first goal when they’ve just been put out for injury!

For more in-depth analysis, investigate current forms and,in team sports, the results of previous head-to-heads. A star horse could be running badly this season or a specific match-up might result in surprising results for an underdog team.

Make sure you stick to trusted, reliable resources for accurate information and check out some well–knowntipsters for detailed yet comprehensive analysis.

#4 Start Small—Focus on Single Bets

One of the best rules for newcomers is not to get ahead of yourself. When you’re still learning, it’s important to start small—avoid parlays and complex bets and focus on the smaller moving parts, a well-researched single line bet is far more satisfying when it pays off than fumbling your way through a doomed accumulator. Stick to smaller value bets so you can try your hand at different tactics while keeping your bankroll healthy.

#5 Track Your Bets and Learn From Each Outcome

Many people already track a lot of things in their life—their sleep, fitness journeys, daily runs—so it’s only sensible to turn to this with a new hobby. While you might think you’re remembering everything, getting specifics down on paper can turn up surprising results. Dig through your previous wins and losses and excavate all the gritty details of what went wrong and how you made things go right.

Spreadsheets are a favourite of our pros to track their progress, and they’re great for managing bankroll, too, as well as keeping tabs on winners, losers, and much more!

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The 2024/2025 TUS Dr. Harty Cup Under-19 A Hurling competition is heating up as the group stages conclude and the knockout stages take shape. Following this week’s Round 3 games, three Quarter-Finalists have been confirmed, with the remaining spots to be determined through draws and Preliminary Quarter-Final clashes.

Quarter-Finalists Confirmed

The winners of the three four-team groups have secured their places in the Quarter-Finals, which will take place in January:

•Group 1 Winner: CBC Cork

•Group 2 Winner: Ardscoil Rís Limerick

•Group 3 Winner: The victor of next Tuesday’s game between Blackwater Community School Lismore and Cashel Community School

Additionally, the fourth Quarter-Final place was determined by a draw between the winners of the three-team groups:

•Group 4 Winner: CBS Midleton (selected via draw)

Preliminary Quarter-Final Draw

The remaining teams will compete in the Preliminary Quarter-Finals, scheduled for December 4th. The draw for this round will take place next Tuesday evening after the crucial Group 3 game between Blackwater Community School Lismore and Cashel Community School.

Teams involved in the Preliminary Quarter-Final draw include:

•Group 5 Winner: De La Salle College

•Group 6 Winner: St. Flannans College, Ennis

•Group 1 Runner-Up: John the Baptist Community School

•Group 2 Runner-Up: Our Lady’s Templemore

•Group 3 Runner-Up: Loser of Blackwater Community School Lismore vs. Cashel Community School

•Group 4 Runner-Up: Nenagh CBS

•Group 5 Runner-Up: Gaelcholáiste Mhuire an Mhainistir Thuaigh

•Group 6 Runner-Up: Thurles CBS

Repeat pairings from the group stages will be avoided during the draw to ensure competitive balance.

Key Dates for the Knockout Stages

•Preliminary Quarter-Finals: December 4, 2024

•Quarter-Finals: January 8, 2025

•Semi-Finals: January 18, 2025

•Final: February 1, 2025

This year’s Dr. Harty Cup promises thrilling matchups as the competition progresses. Stay tuned for updates following the crucial Group 3 game and Preliminary Quarter-Final draw next week.

For more updates on the TUS Dr. Harty Cup, keep following live scores coverage as we bring you all the latest results and fixtures.

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Daire Cregg has no regrets about turning down a move to the AFL, choosing instead to focus on his Gaelic football career with Roscommon.

The talented Boyle forward was approached by the Carlton Blues earlier this year and met with representatives from the club. However, after careful consideration, Cregg decided to stay at home and commit his future to his county.

Speaking on The Rossie GAA Podcast on Shannonside FM, Cregg reflected on the opportunity:

“It was nice to be asked,” he said. “I had a meeting with them (Carlton), and they were really good guys. Obviously, a professional set-up is a professional set-up. It was appealing from that side of things.

“But I probably love the game too much and… I don’t feel I’d be getting the best out of myself over there because I’d miss this side of things too much.”

The Roscommon star expressed optimism about the county’s future under current management, adding:

“I think we have a really good chance with the group of players we have in Roscommon. I think we have a good manager who has good time for young lads and good trust in young lads.”

Cregg’s decision reflects his passion for Gaelic football and belief in the potential of Roscommon’s current squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The post Daire Cregg Rejects AFL Move to Focus on Roscommon GAA Future appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Farrell has handed debuts to two uncapped players in the starting lineup. Leinster hooker and former Ireland U20 Grand Slam-winning captain Gus McCarthy makes his first appearance in the front row, while Ulster back-row Cormac Izuchukwu earns his first cap as blindside flanker.

Following an impressive impact off the bench in last week’s victory over Argentina, Jamie Osborne is named at full-back for his first start at the Aviva Stadium. He will line up alongside Mack Hansen and Jacob Stockdale in the back three.

In the midfield, Robbie Henshaw starts at outside centre with Bundee Aki at inside centre. Sam Prendergast earns his first Test start at fly-half, partnering Craig Casey in the half-back pairing.

The front row features Andrew Porter and Finlay Bealham alongside debutant McCarthy, who has been promoted from a training panellist to the match day squad after impressing in Portugal and Dublin over recent weeks.

In the second row, Joe McCarthy retains his spot and is joined by Tadhg Beirne, who shifts from the back row to allow Izuchukwu to debut at six. Completing the pack are openside flanker Josh van der Flier and captain Caelan Doris at number eight.

On the bench, Rónan Kelleher, Tom O’Toole, and Thomas Clarkson provide front-row cover, with Iain Henderson and Cian Prendergast completing the forward replacements. Conor Murray, Ciaran Frawley, and Stuart McCloskey offer backline options.

Speaking ahead of the game, Andy Farrell said:

“There were signs of improvement last weekend, and this week has been about building and embracing the challenge of a talented Flying Fijian side, who will be coming to Dublin full of confidence after their recent displays.

“On Saturday, we welcome two more debutants, and I’m delighted for Cormac and Gus, who have impressed with their work-rate and application over recent weeks and months. They’ve performed strongly for their provinces, carried that form into the Emerging Ireland Tour, and are now being rewarded. We wish them well as they take this exciting next step in their careers.”

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Whether you prefer a classic look or something more daring, getting your outfit right for the Melbourne Cup can be a fun challenge. It’s about blending tradition with style while ensuring everything fits well and looks polished.

Let’s break down how you can nail your Melbourne Cup fashion and turn heads with your outfit this year.

Know The Dress Code

First things first, you need to know the dress code so you can plan accordingly your Melbourne cup fashion. The Melbourne Cup has a reputation for being formal and elegant. For women, this usually means wearing a dress, a fascinator, and well-chosen accessories. Men are expected to wear suits, but adding a tie, pocket square, or hat can elevate the look.

But how do you follow the rules while still showing off your personal style? The trick is finding a balance between the expected formal style and your unique touch. For example, a traditional dress doesn’t mean it has to be plain—you can go bold with colors or patterns. Men can stand out with a suit in a unique shade rather than sticking to the usual black or navy.

Choose Fabrics That Work For The Weather

Since the Melbourne Cup happens in early November, the weather is usually warm. This makes it important to pick fabrics that are lightweight and comfortable. For women, materials like cotton, chiffon, and silk are great choices—they’re breathable and look elegant. Men can opt for linen or lightweight wool-blend suits that keep them looking sharp while staying cool.

Fabric can also make your outfit look more luxurious. A simple dress in silk can instantly feel more high-end. For men, choosing a wool-blend suit keeps the structure firm but smooth. Avoid anything too heavy, as you’ll be spending hours outside, and comfort is key.

Pick The Right Colors

Color is one of the easiest ways to make your outfit pop at the Melbourne Cup. While black and white are always safe choices, don’t be afraid to try bold colors. This year, shades like deep blues, rich reds, and emerald greens are expected to be popular. If you prefer softer shades, pastels like light pink or lavender can also be striking without being too bold.

For men, choosing a suit in a different color, like dark green or light grey, can help you stand out while still keeping it formal. Don’t forget that accessories can add extra color, too. A colorful fascinator or tie can take your outfit to the next level.

Wearing Fascinators And Hats

No Melbourne Cup outfit is complete without a headpiece. For women, fascinators are the go-to accessory. The trick is to find one that matches your outfit without stealing the spotlight. If your dress is bold, go for a more understated fascinator. If your dress is simple, a more elaborate fascinator can add excitement to your look.

Men, on the other hand, can consider wearing a hat to add a classy touch to their outfits. Choose a hat that complements your suit but isn’t too flashy. A simple, well-fitted hat in a neutral color works best.

Don’t Forget The Accessories

Accessories can make or break your outfit, so it’s important to choose wisely. For women, a stylish handbag, elegant heels, or standout jewelry can elevate the entire look. Men can add character to their outfits with ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks.

When picking accessories, think about what enhances your outfit without overdoing it. A neutral dress can be brightened up with colorful shoes or bold jewelry. For men, if your suit has a unique color, keep your tie and pocket square simple to keep everything balanced.

Comfortable Yet Stylish Shoes

Since the Melbourne Cup is an all-day event, comfort is key, especially when it comes to shoes. Women often wear heels, but it’s wise to choose a pair that provides support. Block heels or wedges offer more stability than stilettos, making them a better choice for a long day.

Men should focus on polished dress shoes that match their suits. Classic colors like black or brown are great choices, and well-fitted shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Grooming Matters

Looking good isn’t just about your outfit—grooming is important, too. Women should ensure their hair is styled neatly and that their makeup complements their outfits. Subtle makeup with one feature—like bold lips or striking eyes—can work well for an event like this.

Men should also take grooming seriously. A clean, styled haircut and well-groomed facial hair add to the polished look. A well-dressed outfit only shines if your grooming matches it.

Confidence Is Key

While fashion is important at the Melbourne Cup, confidence is what really makes you stand out. Feeling good in your outfit will make a big difference. Take the time to plan your look, and make sure all the details—from your dress or suit to your accessories—come together smoothly. With a well-planned outfit and a positive attitude, you’ll be ready to enjoy the day in style.

Conclusion

Getting your Melbourne Cup fashion just right is all about paying attention to the little details. From the dress code to the right accessories, each part of your outfit plays a role in creating a polished and stylish look. By choosing the right fabrics, colors, and accessories and making sure your grooming is on point, you’ll be able to enjoy the day confidently. Remember, a well-thought-out outfit will not only look great but also make you feel great.

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