The official launch of the 2024-2027 Strategic Development Plan occurred last weekend in Leuven, Belgium. This defining moment will shape the future of Gaelic Games across the continent, ensuring structured growth, sustainability, and international recognition.
The vision behind this strategy is strengthened by experience, and few embody that more than GGE Chairperson John Murphy. Now in his fifth year leading the organisation, John has brought an unparalleled depth of knowledge, drawn from years of dedication to one of Europe’s oldest and largest Gaelic Games clubs—Amsterdam GAC. The club’s impact on European GAA governance is unmatched, contributing more officer years than any other club in the 25 year history of GGE. His leadership has been pivotal in driving the organisation forward, balancing tradition with innovation as GGE continues to evolve and adapt to the numerous cultures it operates in.
To ensure Gaelic Games Europe’s continued growth, the Strategic Development Plan is structured around key pillars, each led by experienced and dedicated figures:
🏐 Coaching & Games Development – This pillar focuses on expanding player and coach education, improving standards at all levels, and increasing accessibility to Gaelic Games training resources across Europe. A coordinated effort between code officers, referees, and coaching administrators will ensure structured development opportunities for all involved.
📍 Regionalisation – Strengthening governance structures at a regional level is a key priority, ensuring clubs have the resources and support needed to grow within their communities. This will lead to more games, increased participation, and a more sustainable framework for long-term development.
📣 Commercialisation, PR & Branding – Enhancing the visibility, sponsorship potential, and public engagement of Gaelic Games across Europe. This pillar aims to increase awareness of the sport, attract new audiences, and ensure a strong and sustainable presence for Gaelic Games on the continent.
Each of these pillars is supported by experienced and dedicated teams, bringing together coaches, administrators, and volunteers from across Europe to drive progress and ensure long-term success.
Strategic Support from Key GAA Figures
The launch was further strengthened by the presence of Charlie Harrison (GAA International Director), Jamie Queeney (Leinster GAA Learning & Development), and Dereck Kent (GAA Leinster Council Delegate). Their contributions provided invaluable expertise and a direct link between European Gaelic Games and the wider GAA community in Ireland. Their involvement underscores the importance of this strategic plan and reflects the growing recognition of European GAA as a key player in the sport’s global expansion.
Strengthening Regional Growth
The success of the Strategic Development Plan launch was also enriched by the contributions of key European Gaelic Games leaders, particularly those shaping the game at a regional level.
A special mention goes to Malte Jung, Chairperson of the German GAA Board, for his valuable insights on the continued expansion of Gaelic Games in Germany. Similarly, Stephen Hegarty, Secretary of France GAA and a core figure at Mondeville GAA, provided an important perspective on the evolving Gaelic Games landscape in France. Their presence ensured that the voices of two of Europe’s largest and fastest-growing Gaelic Games communities were heard as part of the long-term vision for growth.
With a clear strategy in place, Gaelic Games Europe is positioned for sustained growth and development over the coming years. This plan provides the framework to strengthen governance, expand participation, and enhance the visibility of our games across the continent.
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