Sheffield etched a new chapter in its sporting history in August 2024, playing host to its
inaugural Gaelic Football 7s Tournament—a watershed moment for both the city and the
local Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) community. The event, organised by St Vincent's
GAA Club, drew an impressive lineup of teams from across Britain and Ireland, with clubs
travelling from Cardiff, Liverpool, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds, and even as
far as Co. Kerry, Ireland, to participate in this exciting tournament.
This landmark event saw thrilling matches throughout the day, culminating in victories for St Brendan’s Manchester in the men’s cup competition and Austin Stacks of Kerry in the Ladies’ Cup competition. Success also followed for Erin go Bragh GAA, Birmingham in the Men’s Shield and Tír na nÓg, Newcastle in the Ladies’ Shield. The tournament not only showcased the skill and passion of the teams but also highlighted the growing enthusiasm for Gaelic football in the region.
Michael McIvor, St Vincent’s Club Secretary, reflected on the success of the tournament and
the remarkable growth of the club since its inception in 2017. "This tournament is the result of years of hard work and commitment from everyone at St Vincent's and the Gaelic football community in Sheffield. To witness teams from across Britain and Ireland converge on our city is truly extraordinary. We are dedicated to making this an annual event, building on the success of this inaugural tournament, and continuing to expand both the club and the sport in the years ahead"
Since its founding in 2017, St Vincent's GAA has rapidly developed, becoming a central hub
for Gaelic sports in South Yorkshire. The club’s commitment to fostering a strong, inclusive
community has attracted members from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, contributing to
the vibrant Gaelic football scene we witnessed at the tournament.
The club would like to thank all the volunteers on the day that ensured the event ran
smoothly.
The club is already looking ahead to the future, with plans to make this tournament an
annual fixture, firmly placing Sheffield on the Gaelic football map in Britain. The future of the
sport in Sheffield is undeniably bright, and this tournament is only the beginning.
Austin Stacks, Co Kerry - Ladies' Cup Winners
Tír na nÓg, Newcastle - Ladies Shield Winners
Club Secretary Michael McIvor presenting the Men's Shield to Erin go Bragh captain James McMulkin.
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