The Irish FA, alongside Ulster Rugby and Ulster GAA, recently hosted an inclusive Game of 3 Halves session in Magherafelt.
The event, staged at Meadowbank Arena, was attended by Ballymena Bears (rugby), Coleraine Strikers (football) and Derry GAA for All (Gaelic Games).
The teams, made up of players with different learning abilities, had the opportunity to play all three sports while volunteer coaches delivered the activities.
Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood acknowledged the importance of promoting inclusivity and praised those involved.
He said: “Each of the sports are doing tremendous work promoting and delivering inclusive games. It’s fantastic for us to work in collaboration with Ulster GAA and Ulster Rugby to share learnings as we create the opportunities for those of all abilities to participate in sport.
“It’s encouraging to see 16 volunteers involved in the event to provide them and the clubs involved with an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge.”
Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin added: “This was a very positive event highlighting how sport can be inclusive by coming together and celebrating all abilities. The participants had so much fun learning from the other sports and making new friends along the way. We are proud to work with our partners at Irish FA and Ulster Rugby to deliver such important projects.”
Ulster Rugby President Philip Gregg commented: “Through this project we were able to give three clubs and the volunteer coaches an opportunity to meet and work together and we look forward to them continuing to network and develop strong sporting relationships. This will greatly benefit all three clubs and the participants as we continue to develop our inclusive games.
“We are delighted to be working closely with our partners at the Irish FA and Ulster GAA.“
This programme was delivered through the DfC Home for Lifelong Volunteering Project and supported by George Quigley Fund.
