Cúl Camps a big success as coaching faces challenges
Cúl Camp income stood at €127,648 last year in Westmeath and while the figure was down slightly on that of 2023 (€142,388), the county-wide activity continues to be a major success.
Darren Magee, Head of Games Development, reflected on a very positive Cúl Camp programme in Westmeath.
“Kellogg's GAA Cúl Camps provided a dynamic and enjoyable week for 3109 children aged 6 to 13, emphasising player development through age-appropriate games. This year, we ran 28 camps, including an Inclusion Camp for children with special needs or disabilities, where 35 children participated,” he recalled.
“Heartfelt thanks to Westmeath Sports Partnership and Loreto College for their invaluable support. The success of these camps is a testament to the collaboration with local clubs, and we extend our gratitude to all clubs involved.”
Challenges remain as Westmeath try to encourage clubs to embrace the Games Promotion Officer (GPO) programme. Head of Operations Patrick Doherty feels it’s the best way for clubs to enhance their coaching programme.
“The GPO programme which we put in place over the past couple of years has not been without its challenges, with difficulties recruiting staff to the various positions and some clubs deciding to opt-out. However, our Coaching and Games Development committee has been working with our colleagues in Leinster Council and will be putting a proposed revised structure to our clubs in the near-future. We believe that this will be the best way for us all to move forward,” stated Mr Doherty.
“In relation to Central funding, it is only in the very recent past that we have been able to agree on the use of funding and purposes for which it will be used. This is a very significant forward step and will allow us make meaningful plans knowing that the finance is in place.”
County Secretary Brendan Shaw referred to the challenge the county faces on the coaching front.
“Retention of full-time coaches and administrators is an issue for Westmeath; there is a recognition at national level that more needs to be done to retain staff. Westmeath GAA in conjunction with Leinster GAA are planning a revamp of the entire coaching model in the very near future.
"This model will recognise the importance of the club coach and will involve a more collaborative approach between the coaching staff, the clubs and the schools. This new model will be rolled out in early 2025. I would be advocating all clubs to support this new coaching model,” he stated.
Ronan Farrell, Westmeath’s Coaching and Games officer, acknowledged the work of the staff in the county: Darren Magee, Bernie Corroon, Emmet Corrigan, Kieran Martin, Alan Mullen, Johnny Greville, Robbie Forde, Aran Whelan, JP Bracken, Paul McManus and Luke Loughlin were thanked. He also said the support of Alan Mulhall of Leinster GAA was important.
There are 42 of the 47 clubs in the county with coaching officers, it was confirmed.
Meanwhile, it was a very positive year for introducing young players to Gaelic games and helping with their growth and development. There were 37 active club nurseries for children aged 6 and under, with over 1500 children taking part in this, Mr Magee reported, while getting young U10 players game time in TEG Cusack Park added to a memorable year.
“This year's Go Games fixture programme for U8s and U10s ran from March to September, featuring 10 rounds for both hurling and football. Approximately 1,400 footballers and 650 hurlers participated. We also organised U10 Cusack Park days, engaging 720 players from 41 clubs, with the assistance of 11 young whistlers. Well done to the players and coaches for making this year's Go Games programme a tremendous success. We eagerly anticipate their return next year.”