Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2011-2015sportlomo-userupload.s3.amazonaws.com/uploaded/18/Limerick... · The Strategic Plan published today is the next step in the process. It is

Limerick GAA

Strategic Vision andAction Plan 2011-2015

www.limerickgaa.ie

Limerick GAA

3

Contents

Teachtaireacht on Uachtarain - C. O .Cuana 2

Teachtaireacht on Cathaoirleach Comhairle na Mumhan 3

Teachtaireacht on Cathaoirleach Coisde Condae Luimni 4

Limerick GAA in Numbers 5

Our Clubs & Members 6

Mission, Vision, Values 7

Our History 8

Overview and Methodology 10

Volunteerism and Club Officer Support 12

Communications 14

Funding & Financial Excellence 16

Games Schedule & Games Development 18-23

Club, Culture & Community 24

Planning & Infrastructure 26

Towards the Future 29

Summary of Plan Tasks and Responsibilities 30

Acknowledgements 31

Glossary of Terms 32

STRATEGIC VISION AND ACTION PLAN 2011-2015

4

Teachtaireacht on Uachtarain – C. O .Cuana


Is cúis mhór áthais dom an teachtaireacht seo a scríobh don Phlean ollthábhachtach seo d’éinne a bhfuil suim acu i gcursaí ár gCumann i gContae Luimní.

Our Association has grasped with vigour the real need to chart a carefully planned path in the years ahead by developing realistic and carefully planned strategic plans. No level of the G.A.A. has been exempt from this ambitious and vital process, with Clubs, Counties and Provinces all devising Plans that complement the National Plan we set out two years ago.

I am delighted to see that Limerick has put such a fine plan in place and it is clear that a great amount of work has been put in to developing this. Limerick has made an enormous contribution to our Association over the years and this carefully devised Plan can assist the Clubs and volunteers of the County to get to where they want to go in the years ahead.

This document is both challenging and innovative and can serve as a launch pad for the County by channelling the energies of so many people who work tirelessly on our behalf in a County that has a vibrant GAA scene and a strong tradition and pedigree.

Of course this Plan is not restricted to the performance or enhancement of the County scene. The Club scene is of paramount importance to everything we do and without it there would be no activity at County level. For us to get things right we must build from the bottom up and by offering our Clubs not only an input but a central role, we are recognising and safeguarding the all important role of the Club in the activities and affairs of the G.A.A.

Of course challenges and obstacles await. However, the development of Plans such as this can only ensure that we are well equipped to meet them head on.

I acknowledge those who have had an input into this document and urge everyone in theCounty with an interest in our Association to lend their support to a project that has the potential to leave Limerick G.A.A. on an even stronger footing in the years ahead.

Ar aghaidh len ár gcluichí,

Criostóir Ó CuanaUachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael.

5


Mar Cathaoirleach Comhairle na Mumhan, is mór an onóir

dom, an foilseachán seo a mholadh. Tá an foilseachán seo an-

thábhachtach do Choiste Chontae Luimní. Molaim go h-ard

an obair atá déanta ag an gcoiste a chuir an plean le chéile

chun ár gcluichí agus cultúr a chur ar aghaidh agus traoslaím

libh as ucht a bhfuil déanta agaibh.

As Chairman of the Munster Council, I would like to take this

opportunity to congratulate everybody associated with the

publication of the Limerick Strategic Vision and Action Plan.

It is the culmination of many weeks of hard work, much

thought, widespread consultation and above all being

mindful of our mission statement and the fulfilment of the

aims and ideals of our association in an era of great change

for our players, administrators and members.

You now have before you a five year plan which, when

successfully completed by, will leave every facet of the

association in the best possible position to face the future

with confidence. The vision and plan we now have before us

is a modern well run association to reflect the times we live in

and to serve our members into the future.

Since the foundation of the G.A.A. in 1884, clubs throughout

the country have made massive contributions to their

communities. Limerick and the clubs of the county are a case

in point of such contributions.

Past officers of Limerick GAA had a vision for what they

wanted for the county and worked tirelessly to ensure their

aspirations came to fruition. These solid foundations helped

to bring the county to where it is today. The achievements of

the G.A.A. in the county come as a result of the hard work and

help of many members of the local communities. They have

given generously of their time, manual labour and financial

support.

The Strategic Plan published today is the next step in the

process. It is the vision and plan that the current officers have

for G.A.A. in the county to ensure that the association will

continue to grow and be in a position of strength when the

plan is completed five years from now.

The Strategic Vision and Action Plan, when successfully

implemented, will ensure that the county will be in a strong and

vibrant position to meet and carry out these aforementioned

needs and requirements into the future. This in turn, will

ensure that the GAA in Limerick will continue to grow and to

serve its members and communities in a fulfilling manner.

Following the launches of the National and Munster GAA

Strategic Vision and Action Plans the counties were required

to follow suit with their plans and thereafter it will be the turn

of the clubs.

There are many challenges facing the GAA in the County. This

plan sets out a strategic direction for the GAA in Limerick for

the next five years in order for it to build on its strengths and

adapt to meet its challenges. Every aspect of GAA activity in the

county has been examined in detail by means of a thorough

consultation process with club representatives and other key

people. The plan, through its implementation provides a clear

map of the future direction of the GAA in the county.

I congratulate the officers and members of Coiste Chontae

Luimní on the publication of their Strategic Plan, a plan that I

have no doubt will transform a vision into reality. This working

document, over the next five years will ensure the continued

success and growth of the G.A.A. in Limerick when completed.

Is mise le meas,

Seán Brea�nach. Cathaoirleach Comhairle na Mumhan.

Teachtaireacht on Cathaoirleach Comhairle na Mumhan

6

Tugann sé pléisiúr dom an Plean Straitéiseach seo a chur ós

bhur gcomhair. Díríonn sé ár n-aigne comh tabhachtach is atá

sé structúr riaracháin a leagadh síos sa dóigh is go mbeidh sé

ar ár gcumas aidhmeannana na h-eagraíochta a chaomhnú

agus a chur chun cinn ins na blianta romhainn agus go

mbeimíd in ann feidhmiú céim ar chéim Dleis na heagraí

ochtaí éagsúla eile lena bfuilimíd ag coimhlint san saol atá

inniu ann.

Ag léamh tríd an plean chuireann sé i gcuimhne dom dhá

sheanfhocal a fhoghlaim mé ar scoil fadó - “Is cuma nó

muc duine gan seift” agus “Muna gcuirfidh tú san earrach

ní bhainfidh tú san fhómhar”. Anois tá an seift nó an plean

againn agus tá súil agam agus é ag dul i bhfeidhm orainn go

léir go mbeidh fómhar maith againn dá bharr.

Ar son Coiste CLG an Chontae ba mhaith liom mo bhuíochas

thar cuimse a gabháil dóibh siúd a rinne éacht oibre chun an

plean cuimsitheach seo a ullmhú. Molaim go h-árd iad.

The GAA at National level launched its Strategic Vision and

Action Plan 2009-2015 in November 2008. Since he became

Ard Stiúrthóir, Pádraig Ó Dufaigh made this plan his main

priority. This was followed by the launch of the Munster Plan

and now we have our own plan specific to Limerick. The

main aim is to make sure that we continue to appropriately

and effectively serve our members, supporters and the wider

community that sustain us.

I have always held the view that individuals, groups and

organisations that are prepared for today and plan carefully for

the future are the most successful. The GAA as an organisation

plays a very important role in Irish society, reaching into

almost every parish in the country. In Irish society the parish is

unique and the GAA helps to give identity to the people who

live within the boundaries. Our aim is to try to preserve this

identity in an era where there is great economic upheaval.

The economic downturn has landed our country in one of the

severest recessions since the foundation of the state. This

recession has created massive unemployment and emigration

and fundraising and match attendances have been affected.

Sponsorship is much more difficult to negotiate and the cost

of running county and club teams has increased. We therefore

need to take stock and plan very carefully for the future. This

plan identifies key focus areas for club and county. Each focus

area details clear roles and measures of success for club and

county.

As regards infrastructure and developments, what we have we

hold and maintain. When planning for the future, coaching is

of paramount importance. Coaching techniques are forever

changing and the most successful coaches are those who

continue to change their methods. It is a proven fact that we

are continually learning.

A good GAA club is always at the heart of its own community

and the social events and gatherings we organise should be

inclusive. One club in the county has already launched its

5-year Strategic Plan, while two others are at the planning

stage. I would urge all clubs to take stock and follow suit.

I would like to pay tribute to Liam O’Sullivan, our Development

Officer, for the enormous amount of hard work and

consultation he has put in to bring the Limerick Strategic Plan

to fruition, to all the members of the Steering Committee and

to anyone who helped in any way, míle buíochas.

Beir bua is beannacht,

Liam Ó Loineacháin (Cathaoirleach Coiste Luimnigh.)


Teachtaireacht an Cathaoirleach, Coisde Condae Luimni

7


Limerick GAA in Numbers

67 Clubs

12,600 Members

8,400 Players

1,432 Adult Games

3,477 Underage Games

Thousands of Volunteers

8


ClubRegistered

For 2011Full

MembersYouth

MembersAdult Player

Underage Player

Hurling FootballGrounds

Abbey Sarsfields 161 86 75 36 76 Junior B n/a Roselawn, Milford

Adare 205 176 29 55 61 Senior Senior Br. Ignatius Rice Park, Adare

Ahane 109 53 56 23 69 Senior n/a Mackey Park, Newgarden

Askeaton 117 107 10 31 18 Junior A n/a Pairc na nGael, Askeaton

Athea 75 75 0 29 4 n/a Intermediate Pairc na nGael, Athea

Ballinacurra Gaels 160 109 51 29 50 Underage Junior A Balinacurra

Ballybricken Bohermore 139 35 98 25 101 Intermediate Junior A Caherelly

Ballybrown 323 194 127 37 159 Intermediate Underage Pairc O Riain, Clarina

Ballylanders 202 114 87 42 103 n/a Senior Ballylanders

Ballysteen 76 61 11 35 28 n/a Senior Sportsfield, Ballysteen

Banogue 52 45 7 12 2 n/a Junior A Rosstemple, Banogue

Blackrock 351 217 134 61 147 Intermediate Junior B Michael Fox Memorial Park, Kilfinane

Bruff 258 173 85 72 99 Senior Intermediate Pairc na n Gael, Bruff

Bruree 281 164 117 57 132 Senior Intermediate Bruree Sportsfield

Caherconlish 143 20 123 0 121 n/a Underage Fr. Hayes Memorial Park, Caherline

Caherline 260 113 147 45 161 Intermediate n/a Fr. Hayes Memorial Park, Caherline

Camogue Rovers 36 29 7 21 6 Junior B Junior B GAA Field, Meanus

Cappagh 0 0 0 0 0 n/a Junior A Cappagh

Cappamore 216 108 105 47 119 Junior A Intermediate Portnard, Cappamore

Castletown Ballyagran 111 62 49 25 57 Junior A Junior A Paddy Carroll Memorial Park

Claughaun 267 117 148 22 148 Intermediate Intermediate Childers Road, Singland

Crecora Manister 283 108 175 38 192 Junior A Junior B Skehanagh, Crecora

Croagh Kilfinny 250 115 135 47 157 Junior A n/a Adamswood, Croagh

Croom 180 93 87 58 90 Senior Intermediate Pairc na nGael, Croom

Doon 233 164 69 64 70 Senior n/a Kilmoylan Lower, Doon

Dromcollogher Broadford 223 96 127 52 142 Junior A Senior Woodfield, Dromcollogher

Dromin Athlacca 103 74 18 12 0 Intermediate n/a GAA Field, Athlacca

Effin 152 78 74 29 79 Intermediate n/a Effin

Fedamore 158 73 84 39 84 Junior A Junior A Ballyea, Fedamore

Feenagh Kilmeedy 95 95 0 0 0 Junior A Junior B Kevin Long Memorial Park, Feenagh

Feohanagh Castlemahon 99 7 90 0 90 Junior A Junior A Quaid Park, Cooleyroe

Fr Caseys 160 117 41 40 67 n/a Senior The Inch, Abbeyfeale

Galbally 334 121 213 44 225 n/a Senior Galbally

Galtee Gaels 182 102 79 29 93 n/a Junior A John O’Mahony Park, Kilbehenny

Garryspillane 275 116 159 28 1 Senior n/a Dooley Park, Knocklong

Gerald Griffins 197 119 78 31 91 n/a Intermediate Pairc Abha Bhan, Ballyhahill

Glenroe 117 102 12 9 24 Intermediate n/a Glenroe

Glin 211 98 112 44 138 n/a Intermediate Thomas Culhane Park, Glin

Granagh/Ballingarry 91 78 13 34 19 Senior Junior A Ballingarry

Hospital Herbertstown 236 98 138 56 149 Senior Intermediate St. John’s Park, Hospital

Kildimo 99 92 7 43 7 Intermediate As Killulta Gaels Pairc na nGael, Old Kildimo

Killeedy 192 151 41 59 55 Intermediate n/a Pairc Ide Naofa, Raheenagh

Kilmallock 318 248 68 47 81 Senior n/a Sean Fitzgerald Park, Kilmallock

Kilteely Dromkeen 133 93 40 51 49 Junior A Junior A Ballyvouden, Kilteely

Knockaderry 178 50 128 26 139 Intermediate Junior B Knockaderry

Knockainey 133 95 38 39 43 Senior n/a Knockainey Sportsfield

Knockane 132 118 14 82 13 Junior B Junior B Knockanedoolis

Milford 40 39 1 35 3 n/a Junior B Roselawn, Milford

Monagea 139 68 69 37 84 Intermediate Junior A Pairc na nGael, Monagea

Monaleen 159 131 28 101 53 Intermediate Senior Old Schoolhouse Road, Monaleen

Mountcollins 91 89 2 36 18 n/a Intermediate Mountcollins

Mungret St Paul’s 287 218 38 64 60 Intermediate Intermediate Mungret

Murroe Boher 173 165 7 86 27 Senior n/a Harty Park, Murroe

Na Piarsaigh 504 237 231 70 260 Senior Intermediate Pairc Drumgoole, Caherdavin

Newcastle West 354 245 108 85 160 Intermediate Senior Pairc na nGael, The Demesne, NCW

Old Christians 77 0 77 0 77 Junior A Underage Rathbane

Oola 152 137 15 59 29 n/a Intermediate The Glebe, Oola

Pallasgreen 225 90 126 40 135 Intermediate Senior Pallasgreen

Pallaskenry 181 75 106 20 111 Junior A As Killullta Gaels Pallas, Pallaskenry

Patrickswell 415 322 93 91 106 Senior Junior B Pairc Antoin O Briain, Patrickswell

South Liberties 363 200 163 69 174 Senior Junior A Dooley Park, Knockea

St Kieran’s 298 150 148 83 152 Junior A Senior Coolcappa

St Mary’s Sean Finns 145 50 95 8 98 Junior A Junior A Bog Garden, Rathkeale

St Patrick’s 307 132 175 27 129 Junior A Senior Angler’s Walk, Rhebogue

St Senan’s 47 0 47 0 40 n/a Senior Foynes

Staker Wallace 128 63 65 28 73 Junior A Junior A Kilbreedy, Martinstown

Templeglantine 27 1 26 0 26 Junior A n/a Dore’s Cross, Templeglantine

Tournafulla 169 97 72 29 84 Junior A n/a Pairc Mhic Charthaigh

Totals 12597 7278 5198 2673 5678

9


The GAA’s values are the heart and soul

of our Association. In every club around

the world they are what bind us, what

makes us unique and what attracts more

and more players, members, volunteers

and supporters.

Mission“Limerick GAA is a community based volunteer organisation

promoting Gaelic games, culture and lifelong participation”

The GAA is a volunteer organisation. We develop and

promote Gaelic games at the core of Irish identity and culture.

We are dedicated to ensuring that our family of games, and

the values we live, enrich the lives of our members, families

and the communities we serve. We are committed to active

lifelong participation for all and to providing the best facilities.

We reach out to and include all members of our society. We

promote individual development and well-being and strive

to enable all our members achieve their full potential in their

chosen roles.

VisionOur vision for Limerick GAA is that everybody has the

opportunity to be welcomed to take part in our games and

culture, to participate fully, to grow and develop and to keep a

lifelong engagement with our Association

Values

COMMUNITY IDENTITY

• Community is at the heart of our Association.

Everything we do helps to enrich the communities

we serve

• We foster a clear sense of identity and place

AMATEUR STATUS

• We are a volunteer led organisation

• All our members play and engage in our games as

amateurs

• We provide a games programme at all levels to meet

the needs of all our players

INCLUSIVENESS

• We welcome everybody to be part of our Association

• We are anti-sectarian

• We are anti-racist

RESPECT

• We respect each other on and off the playing fields

• We operate with integrity at all levels

• We listen to and respect the views of all

PLAYER WELFARE

• We provide the best playing experience for all our

players

• We structure our games to allow players of all abilities

reach their potential

TEAMWORK

• Effective teamwork on and off the field is the

cornerstone of our Association

• Ni neart go cur le cheile (There is no strength without

working together)

Mission, Vision, Values

10


Our HistoryLimerick has a rich and proud tradition in the GAA. From the earliest years of the

Association to the modern day, we have contributed hugely to the establishment of

the Gaelic Athletic Association as Ireland’s most prominent sporting and social body.

Country fairs or Aonacha saw the earliest organised Gaelic Games competitions. The fairs at Manister, Knockainey and Clogher, near Bruree, played host to hurling, football and athletic competitions. The earliest recorded football game under GAA rules saw Rathkeale and Kilmeedy meet as far back as April 1885. Gaelic football had been played in the City long before that time with Commercials and Limerick Butchers as prominent participants.

Indeed, it was in Limerick City that the St. Michael’s Temperance Society set up a hurling club and challenged Shamrocks to a game in Rosbrien. A return game was played afterwards in the Island Field. Tournaments became the order of the day and the first recorded event was in Brown’s Field, Ballyneety where teams from St. Michael’s, Crecora, Shamrocks and South Liberties took part with the latter winning the Silver Cup.

The GAA was a strongly political organisation in its early years. Inextricably linked with Nationalism and the Land Question, the Association suffered from internal wrangling with splits and splinter groups emerging between the constitutional and physical wings of the IRB. By 1888, Limerick GAA with over 90 affiliated clubs had two separate administrations. One was led by Fr. Eugene Sheehy P.P. of Bruree and the other by Frank B. Dineen of Ballylanders and Anthony Mackey of Castleconnell.Frank B. Dineen is a remarkable figure in the history of the Association as he is the only person ever to be elected both President (1895) and General Secretary (1898). A journalist by profession, he purchased the old sportsground at Jones’ Road, Dublin in 1913 and, for no profit, sold the grounds to the GAA. Today, that property is the home of one of the finest and most modern stadia in the world. Croke Park is a monument to the vision of its purchaser after whom the Hill 16 end of the ground is now named. Another Limerickman, Michael Deering, became Chairman of Cork County Board in 1891 and succeeded Dineen as GAA President in 1898.

It is notable that Frank B. Dineen’s first role in the GAA was that of Handicapper, which was an executive position in those days. It reflects the early dominance of Athletics in the Association’s ethos. Limerick athletes were prominent in competitions and won many National titles. The great John Flanagan of Kilbreedy broke the world record for the hammer

on 10 separate occasions between 1896 and 1909. He also claimed 3 Olympic gold medals when representing the USA in the games of 1900, 1904 and 1908. Also representing the USA, Paddy Ryan of Pallasgreen won Olympic gold in the hammer at the Antwerp games of 1920 whilst Tim Aherne of Athea was the Triple Jump winner in London 1908. The famed John O’Grady of Caherconlish held five world shot-putt records between 1920 and 1924.

The first county senior hurling and football championship finals were played together at the Grocer’s Field, Ennis Road on 17th July 1887. Murroe became the inaugural hurling champions, defeating South Liberties by 1-2 to 0-3. Commercials won the football final and created history when they went on to annex Limerick’s first All-Ireland senior title by defeating Young Irelands of Dundalk by 1-4 to 0-3 in Clonskeagh, Dublin. A second title followed with a win over Dublin Metropolitans in 1896.

A Kilfinane selection, led by captain Dinny Grimes, delivered the first of our seven All-Ireland senior hurling crowns when they beat Tullaroan of Kilkenny by 3-4 to 2-4 in Tipperary town on 20th November 1898 to win the 1897 title.

Following the re-organisation of teams to 15-a-side all-county selections, there followed a wait until 1918 when Willie Hough of Newcastlewest captained Limerick to victory over Wexford in Croke Park. Wexford had previously been responsible for a single point defeat of Limerick in the 1910 final when they won by 7-0 to 6-2.

It was to a Limerickman that the Liam McCarthy cup was first presented when Bob McConkey of Young Irelands captained the side that beat Dublin to win the 1921 crown.

The golden era of Limerick hurling arrived in the 1930s when we won four successive Munster championships and contested All-Ireland finals from 1933-36. The legendary Mick Mackey and his men won titles in 1934 (following a replay) and 1936. A further championship followed in 1940 and Limerick also achieved the unequalled feat of winning five National Leagues in a row between 1934-38.

11


A barren period ended in 1973 when Kilkenny were overcome

by 1-21 to 1-14. Eamonn Grimes remains the last Limerickman

to raise the McCarthy Cup and we look forward in hope to

the day that the mantle is passed to a new generation of All-

Ireland senior champions. Defeat has been our lot in the five

finals contested since 1973 but we remain passionate and

committed to restoring Limerick to the top echelons of All-

Ireland success.

On the football front, we have suffered a series of agonising

defeats in senior championship over the last decade. We

have consistently competed with the very best and but

for the absence of any luck whatsoever, we would have

deservedly annexed a few Munster Championships to add to

the success of our U21 team in 2000. The lack of recognition

for the achievements of our footballers on a national level

is disappointing as our players have consistently proved

themselves as worthy All-Stars.

Both our men and ladies won silverware in 2010 with the

Division 4 League title ending the drought of Limerick county

captains on the steps of the Hogan Stand. The achievement

of our Ladies in bouncing back from the disappointment of

2009 to win last year’s All-Ireland Junior championship is a

tribute to the work and dedication shown by all involved in the

promotion and development of the game.

Our most consistent spell of national success came with

the historic 3-in-a row victories of our U21 hurlers between

2000-2002. Through our games development programme

we are seeking to re-establish all Limerick teams in every code

to a level of consistent, competitive and, ultimately, victorious

performance.

We have achieved All-Ireland success in camogie, handball

and Scor. We have triumphed at club and schools hurling. We

have supplied top-class referees and administrators. We are

entitled to look back with pride but we must look forward with

ambition and optimism.

The past may remind us but it cannot bind us. This Strategic

Vision and Action Plan will determine the future. With

uniformity of effort, vision and hard work we can restore

Limerick GAA to a place at the top. Our history is proud but

our best days lie ahead.

Roll Of Honour: All-Ireland Championships

• Senior Hurling (7): 1897, 1918, 1921, 1934, 1936,

1940, 1973

• Senior Football (2): 1887, 1896

• Intermediate Hurling (1): 1998

• Junior Hurling (4): 1935, 1941, 1954, 1957

• U21 Hurling (4): 1987, 2000, 2001, 2002

• Minor Hurling (3): 1940, 1958, 1984

• Intermediate Camogie (2): 1996, 2007

• Junior Camogie (2): 1977, 1995

• Junior Ladies Football (1): 2010

• Fitzgibbon Cup (6): UL 1989, 1994, 2002, 2011; LIT

2005, 2007

• Colleges Senior Hurling (2): Limerick CBS 1964,

1966

• Vocational Schools (1): 1961

• Club Senior Football (1): Thomond College 1978

• Club Junior Hurling (1): Blackrock 2010

• All-Ireland Senior Scor: 28 Titles (1970-2011)

• All-Ireland Scor na nOg: 33 Titles

• Hurling All-Star Awards: 44 (1971-2007)

12


Overview and MethodologyCoiste Contae Luimni is proud to present the county’s Strategic Development Plan 2011-2015. The terms of reference for this project were set out at a meeting of Coiste Bainistiochta in October 2009 and form the basis of the methodology applied in the delivery of the plan.

A Steering Group was put in place to oversee the project and to operate within the terms of reference as previously set down. It was the responsibility of this group to ultimately deliver the final document.

The Steering Group view the Strategic Plan as a tremendous opportunity to achieve a lasting vision for the development of our games and Association in the county. The group has the applied the “CCC” principle to all of it’s dealings as explained below:

Consultation - To consult with all branches and sub-committees of the GAA in the county.

Collation - To accurately record all meetings and to gather all information gleaned from the consultation process.

Collaboration - To work closely and constructively, both as a group andin concert with Provincial Council, to ensure the principles of both the National and Provincial plans are reflected in the Limerick Strategic Plan.

The Steering Group was constituted as follows:

• Liam O’Sullivan - Development Officer, Limerick County Board

• Donal Fitzgibbon - Former Chairman, Limerick County Board

• Mike O’Riordan - Runai, Limerick County Board• Owen Hayes - Cisteoir, Limerick County Board• Noel Hartigan - Games Manager, Limerick Coaching

and Games• Colette O’Grady – Secretary, Limerick Football sub-

committee• Mike Fitzgerald – Cisteoir, Comhairle na Mumhan• Eibhear O’Dea - Runai, Provincial Club & County

Support Committee.

The process was also assisted by the Limerick GAA Development Committee, Pat Fitzgerald , CEO Comhairle na Mumhan and by Joe Carton, Games Manager, Comhairle na Mumhan.

ThemesPursuant to the areas of development outlined in both the National and Provincial plans, the Steering Group identified the headings under which the Limerick Plan will be formed. These headings combine the National and Provincial vision with those that we feel are particular toLimerick and are as follows:

• Volunteerism and Club Officer Support

• Communications

• Games Schedule and Games Development

• Funding and Financial Excellence

• Club, Culture and Community

• Planning and Infrastructure

A particular portfolio of responsibility was assigned to each member of the Steering Group in which they were asked for their observations and expertise in one of the above themes. These reports were combined with the data from the consultation process for inclusion in the final document.

Methodology and ProcessThe Steering Group then set out the process by which the plan would be delivered. The first area visited was the consultation process which would give the opportunity for all in Limerick GAA to have their say.

A Club Forum was held in April 2010 in the Greenhills Hotel. This was facilitated by the Limerick GAA Development Commitee and Kieran Leddy, Organisation and Development Manager, Pairc An Chrocaigh.

Each unit was asked to send a delegation which would be representative of all areas of activity within their club i.e an Administrator, Coach, Player, Fundraiser, Cultural Officer and Bord na n-Og official.

The Forum was successful in obtaining the views of clubs on the future development of Limerick GAA and forms an integral part of the final report.

The next stage of the process involved a series of consultative meetings with each and every sub-committee of Limerick GAA.

13


The groupings consulted were:

• Divisional Boards

• Football sub-committee

• County Bord na n-Og

• Coaching and Games

• Primary and Post Primary/VEC schools boards

• Camogie

• Ladies Football

• County Scor Committee

• Referee’s Committee

• Players and Team Management

• Media

There was a twofold purpose to these meetings. First, to

gain information on each groups area of responsibility by

incorporating a review of activity and secondly to ask each

group for their views on the development process.

To this end, it was decided to put the same three questions

to each grouping in order to achieve a streamlined collation

system for the information obtained. The questions were:

1. Describe the activities in your area in the last 5 years and

outline what you feel were your main achievements

2. What do you hope to achieve in the future and where do

you see your area in 5 years time

3. What are your views on the current state of Limerick GAA

and do you have any suggestions that the Steering Group

should focus upon.

To further facilitate the process a unique collaborative

website was set up. The working document was uploaded

along with all information relevant to the compilation of

the plan. Each member of the Steering Group was provided

with a secure password and the ability to upload and share

information, thoughts, suggestions and comments on the

review. This has proved to be a most helpful tool in working

towards a final report and highlights the technological

development of our Association in a very positive manner.

A draft plan was completed and forwarded to the Steering

Group for discussion, review and revision. The final draft

was sent to County Management for review and was

presented to County Committee as the Limerick GAA

Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2011-2015.

14


Our Aim: To value, encourage and retain our

volunteers who are the heart and soul of our

Association. To provide the best training and support

to our Club Officers in order for them to flourish in

their chosen roles.

Introduction:

Our Association can be proud of its amateur ethos and its

volunteer commitment. For Limerick GAA to continue to

grow and develop we need to fully recognise and nurture the

input of our volunteers. Attraction and retention of volunteers

is one of the greatest challenges facing Limerick GAA in the

future.

Our organisation needs to be:

• Welcoming

• Accommodating

• Supportive

• Educational

• Practical

Key ProjectsVolunteer Recruitment Toolkit

We propose to roll-out the GAA’s Volunteer Toolkit whereby

past players can commit to volunteering a number of hours

per week with their clubs in recognition of the role that their

club played in their development. This will also be open to all

club members past and present.

Club Mentoring Programme

We will introduce a Club Mentoring Programme whereby

former administrators will come on board with a view to

assisting clubs in terms of development and management.

These mentors will be available to help and encourage clubs

to maximise their resources and to consolidate the GAA at the

heart of our community. They will provide assistance across

a wide range of areas encompassing administration, finance,

recruitment and games development.

Volunteer and Membership Sub-Committee

We will also encourage and assist clubs in forming a Volunteer

and Membership Recruitment sub-committee which would

be active in the local community for the purpose of identifying

and welcoming new members. For example, it can focus on

the introduction of the parents of new underage club players

to the contribution that they can make in the life of the club.

Volunteerism and Club Officer support

15


ActionAction InvolvesInvolves TimelineTimeline Luimneach 2015Luimneach 2015

Organise a Volunteer Organise a Volunteer WorkshopWorkshop

Co. Development CommitteeCo. Development Committee Bi-annual as part Bi-annual as part of club officer of club officer trainingtraining

To have a greater appreciation To have a greater appreciation of the roles played by our of the roles played by our volunteersvolunteers

To continue to develop the GAA Members Management system as an aid to Club Officers

Co. Development Officer Ongoing To have our clubs using the system to best use, including the printing of team-sheets for all club games

To roll-out the new Club To roll-out the new Club Officer Training Programme Officer Training Programme and carry out Officer training and carry out Officer training on a bi-annual basison a bi-annual basis

Munster Council Club and County Munster Council Club and County Support Committee Co. Support Committee Co. Development CommitteeDevelopment Committee

Bi-annualBi-annual To ensure that our Club To ensure that our Club Officers are appropriately Officers are appropriately trained in order for them to trained in order for them to carry out their roles and dutiescarry out their roles and duties

Introduce a Volunteer Recognition Scheme

Co. Development Committee 2012 To recognise the invaluable role and contribution of our volunteers

Introduce an educational Introduce an educational programme whereby Club programme whereby Club Officers are trained in areas Officers are trained in areas such as Player Welfare, such as Player Welfare, Nutritional programmes and Nutritional programmes and Best Practice in coaching and Best Practice in coaching and preparationpreparation

University of Limerick University of Limerick Coaching and GamesCoaching and Games

20122012 To have Best Practice applied To have Best Practice applied across all areas of team across all areas of team preparation from clubs to preparation from clubs to county squadscounty squads

To promote a Volunteer Toolkit for clubs

Co. Management Committee 2012 To have past and present members actively involved with their clubs in a meaningful capacity

To encourage clubs to put a To encourage clubs to put a Membership and Recruitment Membership and Recruitment sub-committee in placesub-committee in place

Club OfficersClub Officers 20112011 To have clubs actively involved To have clubs actively involved with local communities with local communities from where they attract and from where they attract and welcome new memberswelcome new members

To introduce a Club Mentoring Programme as a support mechanism for clubs

Co. Development Committee 2012 To utilise the expertise of former officers and officials as an aid to clubs

16


OUR AIM: AN ENHANCED INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL

COMMNICATIONS MODEL.

Introduction:Limerick GAA is committed to a dynamic overhaul of our

communications process. In this age of instant media and

social networking, we will seek to develop and improve our

means of communication through the actions laid out in this

section.

There is a great deal of good work going on in Limerick GAA

but we need to be conscious of the fact that many of our

supporters are often unaware of projects and initiatives.

We can be justifiably criticised for past oversights and we

undertake to introduce an information-based model that

will serve the needs of all our units. It was a feature of many

submissions to the Steering Group that our communications

policy is in need of improvement. Taking this on board, we

are committing to a series of new initiatives that will place

Limerick GAA to the forefront of modern and effective

communications.

Our communications model must be:

• Accessible

• Information based

• User friendly

• Visible

A number of key projects will be rolled out to lead to the

establishment of new and dynamic communications

procedures. These will include:

Limerick TVWe will develop a facility on limerickgaa.ie where club and

county games will be uploaded for viewing by our supporters.

We are conscious of our many overseas supporters and their

desire to continue sharing in our games. Through Limerick TV,

we will provide the latest games for online viewing.

Facebook and TwitterThe growth of social media, particularly amongst our younger

Gaels, is a developing feature of our Association. Through the

establishment of Limerick GAA Facebook and Twitter pages

we aim to reach out to our youth through a new medium in

GAA communication.

Limerickgaa.ieOur website can be one of our greatest resources in a new

communications model. Limerickgaa.ie will be revamped and

relaunched to include many new features for the information

and enjoyment of our supporters. As well as Limerick TV, we

will include additional sections such as:

• Divisional Board pages

• Primary, Post-primary school and third level links

• A new automated results and tables uploader

• Leabhran Eolais and Master Fixture list available

online

• Profiles of our county teams and development

squads

• An interactive discussion forum

We also propose to introduce a Communications Calendar

and regular Newsletter which will be distributed through both

online and physical media.

Communications

17



To relaunch the Limerick To relaunch the Limerick GAA Website as a dynamic GAA Website as a dynamic communications mediumcommunications medium

Co.Management Committee Co.Management Committee Co. Public Relations CommitteeCo. Public Relations Committee

20112011 To have all patrons and To have all patrons and supporters fully informed supporters fully informed of Limerick GAA news and of Limerick GAA news and eventsevents

Launch Limerick GAA Facebook and Twitter

Co. Public Relations Committee 2011 To engage with our supporters and provide regular updates using social media tools

To hold a Communications To hold a Communications Workshop for clubs and to Workshop for clubs and to encourage clubs to adopt best encourage clubs to adopt best communications practicecommunications practice

Co. Public Relations Committee Co. Public Relations Committee Co. Development CommitteeCo. Development Committee

20122012 To have an effective and To have an effective and information- based information- based communications model in communications model in operation in all clubs and unitsoperation in all clubs and units

Annual training programme for Club PROs delivered

Co. Development Committee Annual To ensure our club PROs are fully trained and assisted in their roles

To have all clubs using the GAA To have all clubs using the GAA email systememail system

Co. Development Officer Co. Development Officer Co. IT OfficerCo. IT Officer

CompletedCompleted A standardised method of A standardised method of email communication for the email communication for the benefit of allbenefit of all

To continue to improve our media relations through mutually co-operative projects

Co. Public Relations Committee On-going To have Limerick GAA at the forefront of our sporting city and county

Launch of Limerick TVLaunch of Limerick TV County PRO County PRO County SecretaryCounty Secretary

20112011 Our club and county games Our club and county games available online for the available online for the enjoyment of our supporters enjoyment of our supporters at home and abroadat home and abroad

To carry out a communications audit with all clubs as the Strategic Plan develops over time

Strategic Plan Monitoring and Implementation Group

Complete by 2015

To ensure that we are prepared for the next phase of communications development post 2015

To further grow and develop To further grow and develop the GAA programme on Live the GAA programme on Live 95FM 95FM

County PRO County PRO County SecretaryCounty Secretary

OngoingOngoing To consolidate our position To consolidate our position as Limerick’s leading sporting as Limerick’s leading sporting body through our weekly body through our weekly programmeprogramme

To collaborate with Live 95FM to introduce a results slot during the playing season

County PRO County Secretary

2011 To have the most up to date results available through broadcast media

18


Our Aim: To secure the future of our clubs and county through effective management of our finances and dynamic fundraising programmes.

Introduction: Limerick GAA is committed to a prudent and practical financial template. In these difficult economic times we must focus our energies on securing our financial future through careful management combined with positive marketing of our products.

Our financial and fundraising policy must be:

• Practical

• Prudent

• Visionary

• Marketable

Limerick GAA is committed to a dynamic approach to fundraising and sponsorship. We are very conscious of the need to offer value for money to our patrons and supporters and are confident that a number of new initiatives will be successful in meeting this ambition

We also need to ensure that standards of excellence are in place in relation to all financial matters in the county. We will govern our affairs in a manner that ensures that we have:

• Appropriate financial controls in each unit

• Achieve value for money

• Resources available to achieve our aims

• Accountability and responsibility

• Protection of our assets

• Fundraising projects in place

Key Projects:

Lifting LimerickWe wish to introduce ‘Lifting Limerick’ as a support and social structure. This body will incorporate the Limerick GAA Supporters Club and will act as a fundraising mechanism through which finance will be raised in support of our county teams and projects. We will increase the number of partners

of Limerick GAA in the local business community. We aim to put a discount system in place with our partners for the benefit of members of ‘Lifting Limerick’.

Audit CommitteeWe will instigate a Financial and Audit Committee to encourage best practice in financial management. This committee will contain business experts from outside the Association whose experience will be valuable to Limerick GAA

Season TicketWe will introduce a season ticket for all club games in the county. This season ticket will reward our many patrons who attend our club games around the county and encourage

greater numbers to attend.

Funding and Financial Excellence

19



Develop ‘Lifting Limerick’ Develop ‘Lifting Limerick’

as a support and social as a support and social

structurestructure

Co. Management and Co. Management and

Finance Committees Finance Committees

Limerick GAA Supporters Limerick GAA Supporters

Club incl. Dublin BranchClub incl. Dublin Branch

20112011 To have a dedicated and To have a dedicated and

vibrant support structure vibrant support structure

to our teams which will to our teams which will

also provide benefits to the also provide benefits to the

supporters of Limerick GAAsupporters of Limerick GAA

Finance and Audit

Committee in place

Co. Finance Committee 2011 To govern our financial

affairs in a professional and

prudent mannerprudent manner

Review of our financial Review of our financial

practices undertakenpractices undertaken

Co. Finance CommitteeCo. Finance Committee 20112011 Best Practice employed in Best Practice employed in

all financial mattersall financial matters

Introduce a season ticket

for all club games

Co. Finance Committee

Co. Secretary

2012 To provide greater value for

money to our supporters

Establish budgets for all Establish budgets for all

inter-county squadsinter-county squads

Co. Finance CommitteeCo. Finance Committee CommencedCommenced To run and support To run and support

our county teams in a our county teams in a

financially viable fashionfinancially viable fashion

Make the national

Fundraising Toolkit

available to all club officers

Co. Finance Committee 2011 To provide the best advice

to clubs on the fundraising

in the club

Provide club officers Provide club officers

with training through with training through

the GAA Officer Training the GAA Officer Training

programmeprogramme

Co. Development Co. Development

CommitteeCommittee

Bi-annual. Commencing Bi-annual. Commencing

20112011

To have all our Club To have all our Club

Treasurers trained in best Treasurers trained in best

financial practicefinancial practice

We will implement the use

of GAA Financial Software

Co. Finance Committee 2012 Uniformity of IT solutions

for club and county

treasurers

Online shop for Limerick Online shop for Limerick

GAA merchandiseGAA merchandise

Co. Secretary Co. Co. Secretary Co.

Finance CommitteeFinance Committee

Launch 2012Launch 2012 A supporter-friendly A supporter-friendly

facility for the purchase of facility for the purchase of

Limerick GAA merchandiseLimerick GAA merchandise

Members gym in Pairc na

nGael developed

Lifting Limerick Support

Group

Commence feasibility study

in 2012

To consolidate Pairc na

nGael as a first-class

sporting and social facility

for all our members

To assess clubs and advise To assess clubs and advise

them on best financial them on best financial

practicepractice

County Treasurer County Treasurer

County Finance and Audit County Finance and Audit

CommitteeCommittee

Commence late 2011 – Commence late 2011 –

early 2012early 2012

To help and assist clubs in To help and assist clubs in

financial compliance and financial compliance and

practicespractices

20


OUR AIM: A STRUCTURED PROGRAMME OF GAMES FOR EVERYBODY.

Introduction: This is one of the key sections of the Strategic Vision and Action Plan. Our purpose here is twofold:

1. To analyse and improve our scheduling of games2. To develop our games for the benefit and enjoyment of all who take part in them.

Those who play our games shall form the primary focus of this chapter. Our players are our greatest resource and we will ensure that they are provided with a fair and manageable fixtures programme.

The concept of giving players more games may be viewed as over-simplistic. Our aim is to give players more meaningful games at the appropriate level and time. All players should have the opportunity to fully participate in a structured games programme.

Cumann na mBunscoil operate a very successful policy of providing games for everybody who wishes to take part and it is the aim of Limerick GAA to apply this concept across our games schedule policy.

Our Games Schedule will be:• Structured• Player based• Geographically balanced• Co-ordinated with our County teams

Key Projects

Lifting the Treaty 2Work is already underway on this project which aims to continue the work of the original “Lifting the Treaty” blueprint which re-organised the way in which we run our underage games. This committee will extend the process to include a comprehensive review of how our adult games programme is administered taking into account the key principles outlined above, including ensuring that all players get a sufficient number of games.

County Fixtures PlannersWe will recruit and train a number of fixtures planners who will develop and co-ordinate the county’s Fixtures Plan. These planners will be trained at national level and will have an input into the compilation of the Master Fixture List as well as coordinating with each of our fixture making bodies to ensure a balanced and player-friendly fixtures programme.

County Fixtures ReviewThere will be an on-going review of the schedule as we aim to further improve on our 82% rate of fixture compliance. This review will encompass areas such as geographical balance across competitions, harmonisation of fixtures with underage bodies and analysis of non-fielding of teams with a view to remedying same.

Referee Education and DevelopmentThere would not be any games if it were not for the dedication shown by our referees. The Referee Education programme is already up and running with good participation levels in Limerick. We will recruit and train a greater number of Referee Assessors in order to encourage and further improve our standards. We also aim to provide training for our volunteer umpires as we seek to raise standards across all of our games.

Cara ProgrammeWe will pilot the “Cara” programme where new referees are paired with experienced officials who will help and encourage them in their role.

Promotion of Camogie and Ladies FootballIt is encouraging to see the increasing participation levels in Camogie and Ladies Football. Many adult clubs are expanding to promote these games. From the Steering Group’s discussions with these bodies it was apparent that access to facilities was a major difficulty facing the promotion of the games. In line with our aim of “Games for Everybody”, we will assist in the promotion of Camogie and Ladies Football and help, where necessary, in the procurement of venues and facilities so that we can continue to build on our recent success.

Games Schedule

21



Lifting the Treaty 2Lifting the Treaty 2 Lifting the Treaty 2 sub-Lifting the Treaty 2 sub-

committeecommittee

Reporting in 2011Reporting in 2011 Comprehensive review Comprehensive review

of how our adult of how our adult

games programme is games programme is

administered in the administered in the

countycounty

Recruit and train County

Fixture Planners

CCC 2011 Excellence in fixtures

making and a fully

monitored fixtures

programme

Annual fixtures plan Annual fixtures plan

developed for all grades in developed for all grades in

the county in placethe county in place

County CCC County CCC

Divisional CCCs Divisional CCCs

AnnualAnnual Co-ordinated andCo-ordinated and

effective fixture planningeffective fixture planning

Survey of club players

to get their views on the

fixtures process

County Fixtures Planners 2012 Comprehensive and

inclusive fixture planning

We will review our fixtures We will review our fixtures

programmes in the programmes in the

county to build on current county to build on current

compliance rate of 82%compliance rate of 82%

County Fixtures PlannersCounty Fixtures Planners 20122012 Compliance rate in excess Compliance rate in excess

of 90% of fixtures across of 90% of fixtures across

the countythe county

20 new referees recruited

and trained each year.

County Referee Co-

ordinator

Annual A sufficient number

of trained referees for

our expanding games

programme

Referee Education Referee Education

programme and Young programme and Young

Whistler courses held Whistler courses held

each yeareach year

County Referee Co-County Referee Co-

ordinatorordinator

OngoingOngoing Sufficient training for all Sufficient training for all

referees in place. referees in place.

Referee ‘Cara’ programme

in place

Coisde na Reiteoiri

Referee co-ordinator

Commence 2012 New referees get advice

and support from

experienced referees

Work with Camogie and Work with Camogie and

Ladies Football on the Ladies Football on the

provision of facilities for provision of facilities for

their fixturestheir fixtures

CCCCCC

Co. ExecutiveCo. Executive

On-goingOn-going To help in the promotion To help in the promotion

of these codes for of these codes for

the mutual benefit the mutual benefit

of all Gaelic games of all Gaelic games

AssociationsAssociations

22


OUR AIM: EVERY PLAYER IN THE COUNTY HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY MEANINGFUL GAMES IN AN INFORMAL AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT.

Introduction: Great strides have been made in recent years in the area of

Games Development. Participation levels across the county

are increasing annually. Perhaps the most striking evidence of

this is in Limerick City. Today in 2011, 57% of primary school

children are participating in Gaelic Games. Five years ago that

figure was 8%.

This increase is due to a number of initiatives including the

appointment of a full-time Games Manager, GDAs and roll-

out of the club-school link.

Limerick GAA will continue to promote and develop our

games in a positive and inclusive manner. Our youth will be

welcomed, coached and encouraged in their participation

and enjoyment of hurling, football, camogie, ladies football

and handball.

Primary schools can justifiably be called the cradle of the

GAA in Limerick. It is here that many youngsters are first

introduced to our native games. We will continue to support

the work of Cumann na mBunscoil and will work with the

Games Manager and GDAs in delivering an active and vibrant

presence in Primary schools with the express aim of fostering

and nurturing our youth towards a lifelong participation in our

games. We will seek to continue the progress made at Primary

school level through to the post-primary set-up through a

number of different channels.

If the Primary schools can be described as the cradle, then

our clubs are the homestead of the GAA in Limerick. We will

continue to assess the needs of our clubs and will respond

with support for Games Development projects.

Key Projects: County

Coaching and Games HeadquartersIn September 2011 we will transfer our Coaching and Games

Headquarters to the University of Limerick. This will give us

access to the most modern and scientific facilities and will act

as a major asset in Games Development.

County Games Development PlanEach year, we will submit an annual games development plan

to the Provincial Council, in line with national and provincial

policy. This plan will outline all of our actions for the year

across all the Grassroots to National Programme (GNP).

This plan will ensure that we achieve excellence in all areas

of Games Development. The main elements of national and

provincial policy are outlined in the tables below.

Felie na GaelWe will aim to host the national Felie na Gael in 2013. This will

showcase Limerick clubs to all other counties and highlight

the progressive development of Gaelic Games in the county.

Key Projects – Schools

Club/School LinkThe link between the club and the school continues to be a

key ingredient in the success of our games at underage level.

We will ensure that each club has a link established with each

school in their locality in order to promote the club in the

school and promote the development of our games.

Teacher participation in coaching programme

Teachers have always played a key role in promoting the

games in our schools. The Association has been fortunate to

have so many talented and dedicated teachers coaching our

games to children in our primary schools. We will continue

to encourage and support teachers in our schools to coach

our games by providing resources to them and providing

education programmes to them.

Key Projects – Clubs

Coach EducationIt is essential that all of our players are coached by persons

with the appropriate coach education qualifications. The GAA

provides a comprehensive coach education programme and

we will put in place structures to ensure that all active coaches

in Limerick are being regularly up-skilled in coaching. At

a minimum, all coaches will have an Award 1 coaching

certificate. We will also aim to increase the number of coaches

with Award 2 coaching qualifications.

Games Development

23


Go-GamesLimerick was one of the first counties in Ireland to embrace

Go-Games as the games model for under-12 competitions.

Go Games encourage greater participation amongst players

and focuses primarily on skill development. We will continue

to promote the go-games concept in the county.

Club Coaching OfficerThe role of the Club Coaching Officer is to promote all aspects

of Games Development in the club. This includes promoting

Go-Games, the Cul Camps, coach education and other

such initiatives as well as helping to ensure that a balanced

programme of games exists for all players.

Code of Best Practice in Youth Sport and

Child ProtectionWe will roll out the GAA’s Code of Best Practice for Youth

Sport, incorporating a code of conduct that shows respect for

fellow players, mentors and match officials. Best practice will

also be developed in the recruitment and selection of those

working with our underage players. This will comply with

the appropriate legislation requirements and guidelines in

jurisdictions in which we operate. Limerick GAA will continue

to provide a safe and secure environment for all of our

children.

Games Development Initiatives at County Level

Action Involves Timeline Luimneach 2015

Games Development Plan

submitted to Provincial

Council and Croke Park

each year

Games Manager Annual County Plan streamlined

with Provincial targets

Establish a new and vibrant

Third-level link through

Coaching and Games HQ in

The University of Limerick

Games Manager

Coaching and

Games Officer

County Secretary

2011 Our Games Programme is

delivered in first-class and

modern facilities

Host national Feile na Gael Co. Executive Committee

Co. Bord na nOg

2013 Our club excellence

highlighted to all counties

24


Games Development Initiatives in SchoolsGames Development Initiatives in Schools


Each primary school and each post primary Each primary school and each post primary

school linked with a club or clubs as part of school linked with a club or clubs as part of

club/school link programmeclub/school link programme

Games ManagerGames Manager

Coaching and GamesCoaching and Games

Co. ExecutiveCo. Executive

20132013 To have our schools fully To have our schools fully

established as the cradle of established as the cradle of

Limerick GAALimerick GAA

Continue playing Primary Game Go-Games

exhibition matches at half-time in major

games at Pairc na nGael

Games Manager

Co. Secretary

Ongoing Big-day match experience for

our young stars

Mackey and Sarsfield Cup squads to form Mackey and Sarsfield Cup squads to form

basis forbasis for County U12/U13 Development County U12/U13 Development

SquadsSquads

Coaching and GamesCoaching and Games

Cumann na mBunscoilCumann na mBunscoil

20112011 To have a streamed system for To have a streamed system for

young players beginning their young players beginning their

inter-county careersinter-county careers

Encourage and build on Teacher

participation in coaching programmes.

Coaching and

Games Officer

Games Manager

Annual Fully trained club and school

coaches

Respect initiative in all SchoolsRespect initiative in all Schools Games ManagerGames Manager

GDAsGDAs

50% of 50% of

schools by schools by

2012 rising 2012 rising

to 100% by to 100% by

20132013

A mutual respect between all A mutual respect between all

players, coaches, spectators players, coaches, spectators

and match officialsand match officials

Post-primary and VEC boards to be

combined into a single administrative

body with its own Competitions Control

Committee.

Schools Boards

County Executive

Incorporate

into County

Bye-law

2011

A co-ordinated approach

to our second level games

programme

A review of competitions structure at post A review of competitions structure at post

primary level with a view to maximising primary level with a view to maximising

player participationplayer participation

County Post-primary County Post-primary

schools committeeschools committee

20112011 Programme reflects the policy Programme reflects the policy

of Games for Everybodyof Games for Everybody

Roll out pilot project of 9/11 a side blitz

type competitions in post primary schools

County Post-primary

schools committee

Games Manager

GDAs

10 schools in

2012. Review

to follow

Programme reflects the policy

of Games for Everybody

Roll-out of Super-touch programme in Roll-out of Super-touch programme in

post primary schools. post primary schools.


GDAsGDAs

10 schools 10 schools

in 2012, 15 in 2012, 15

in 2013 and in 2013 and

remainder by remainder by

20152015

Programme reflects the policy Programme reflects the policy


Roll out pilot project of indoor games

during winter time in schools

Games Manager

Regeneration GDA

HDA

Pilot in 4

schools in

2012.

Programme reflects the policy

of Games for Everybody

Increase GDA presence in our secondary Increase GDA presence in our secondary

schoolsschools

Coaching and Games Coaching and Games

CommitteeCommittee


Commence Commence

2011-2012 2011-2012

school yearschool year

Programme reflects the policy Programme reflects the policy


25


Games Development Initiatives in ClubsGames Development Initiatives in Clubs

ActionAction InvolvesInvolves TimelineTimeline Luimneach 2015Luimneach 2015A clear Player Development and Welfare A clear Player Development and Welfare

programme will be established by Coaching programme will be established by Coaching

and Gamesand Games

Coaching and Games Coaching and Games

CommitteeCommittee


Commence 2012Commence 2012 A clear and standardised A clear and standardised

approach to Player Welfare approach to Player Welfare

and Developmentand DevelopmentAll Club coaches undergo GAA Coach

Education Programme.

Coaching and

Games Officer

Games Manager

Annual Club and school coaches

receiving regular coach

educationNational Coach Education targets on National Coach Education targets on

Foundation, Award 1 and Award 2 achievedFoundation, Award 1 and Award 2 achieved

Coaching and Coaching and

Games Officer Games Officer


AnnualAnnual All players in Limerick All players in Limerick

coached by trained coachescoached by trained coaches

Coach Education tutors to be recruited

and trained

Munster Council

Games Manager

Ongoing An adequate number

of personnel in place to

deliver the Coach Education

Programme

Each club appoint a club Coaching OfficerEach club appoint a club Coaching Officer Club Executive OfficersClub Executive Officers 20122012 Coaching Officer active in Coaching Officer active in

all clubs and ensuring that all clubs and ensuring that

all Games Development all Games Development

Programs are delivered in Programs are delivered in

clubsclubsAll Clubs adopt Code of Best Practice in

Youth Sport

County Management

Committee

Coaching and

Games Officer

Games Manager/GDA/

GPOs

2011 Best Practice adopted as our

games model.

Roll out Garda vetting to all clubsRoll out Garda vetting to all clubs Garda Vetting Officer Garda Vetting Officer

Games Manager Games Manager

County Youth OfficerCounty Youth Officer

OngoingOngoing A safe environment for our A safe environment for our

youth to learn and enjoy our youth to learn and enjoy our

gamesgames

Respect initiative in place at under 14 level Coaching and Games

Committee

Games Manager

Pilot in 10% of

clubs in 2011.

All clubs by 2015

A mutual respect between all

players, coaches, spectators

and match officials

Continue expansion of Go Games in the Continue expansion of Go Games in the

countycounty

Coaching and GamesCoaching and Games Completed Completed Go-Games fully established Go-Games fully established

in clubs and schoolsin clubs and schoolsAll clubs in the county holding or

participating in a Cul camp

Coaching and Games

Committee

Games Manager

GDAs

2012 100% uptake of Cul Camps

by Limerick clubs

U Can awards promoted in schools and U Can awards promoted in schools and

clubsclubs

GDAsGDAs Pilot in 20% of Pilot in 20% of

clubs and schools clubs and schools

through 2011-12 through 2011-12

termterm

U Can awards programme U Can awards programme

established in all clubs and established in all clubs and

schoolsschools

Host national Feile na Gael Co. Executive Committee

Co. Bord na nOg

2013 Highlight our club excellence

26


Our Aim: A welcoming and inclusive environment for everybody.

Introduction: It must always be borne in mind that the GAA is a Cultural organisation as well as a sporting one. Promotion of our heritage, community and culture is a central theme of the national Strategic Vision and Action plan.

Limerick GAA sees the club at the centre of the community. As a meeting point where new friendships are made and old ones renewed, our clubs play a vital and dynamic role in community wellbeing in both city and county.

We will continue to promote club, culture and community through:

• Inclusion• Integration• Identity• Irish Culture and Heritage

Open DaysAs part of the GAA 125th Anniversary celebrations in 2009, La na gClub was held nationwide. Limerick clubs contributed in a massive way towards making a success of the event. We will encourage clubs to continue to hold such Open Days in order to foster community awareness of the GAA and welcome newcomers to our Association.

GAA Club Accreditation ProgrammeWe will roll out the GAA Club Accreditation programme aimed at improving the structure and stature of the GAA club in the community. We will introduce the Club Maith template to Limerick clubs.

ScorLimerick has a rich tradition in Scor with many National and Provincial titles coming our way down through the years. We will seek to re-establish Scor as a major cultural event Limerick GAA circles through increased promotion on our website and through local media. We will include video streaming of Scor competitions on Limerick TV and investigate the possibility of radio broadcasting of these events.

Urbanisation and Rural DepopulationWe must recognise the changing demographics in our city and county if we are to be successful in creating a flourishing GAA environment. Data from Census 2006 no longer gives an accurate picture of population and employment trends across Limerick. The biting recession leading to increased unemployment and emigration has severely affected our GAA community. We therefore propose to wait until hard data from Census 2011 is available. We will then undertake a comprehensive review of urbanisation and rural depopulation trends in an effort to identify how we can best address the needs of our clubs in this regard.

Social Inclusion We will pilot the GAA Social Initiative amongst a number of urban and rural clubs. This initiative is geared towards utilising the GAA as a vehicle for social inclusion amongst our elderly neighbours who suffer from both urban and rural isolation.

Volunteers will be identified and trained to assist with the project. Our clubs are at the heart of our communities and have so much to offer to those community members who are marginalised and isolated. Inclusiveness is a key facet of the GAA’s mission and value statement and we will play our part

through support for this initiative.

Club, Culture & Community

27


ActionAction InvolvesInvolves TimelineTimeline Luimneach 2015Luimneach 2015Each club to appoint an Office for the Irish Each club to appoint an Office for the Irish Language and CultureLanguage and Culture

County Cultural County Cultural Committee Committee Club OfficersClub Officers

CompletedCompleted An improved level of cultural An improved level of cultural awareness in our clubs and awareness in our clubs and countycounty

Clubs to adopt Alcohol and Substance Abuse Policy

County ASAP co-ordinator Club Officers

100% completion by 2015

A proactive approach to alcohol and drug awareness and prevention methods

Club signage programme rolled outClub signage programme rolled out County County Development Officer Development Officer County Cultural OfficerCounty Cultural Officer

CompletedCompleted Greater visibility leads to easier Greater visibility leads to easier access to our clubsaccess to our clubs

Encourage clubs to participate in Scor County Scor committee County Cultural Officer

Annual To have increased levels of participation in cultural events and a greater awareness of Scor as a social event

To further develop the GAA Membership To further develop the GAA Membership Card programmeCard programme

County County Development Officer Development Officer National Organisation National Organisation and Development and Development ManagerManager

OngoingOngoing All of Limerick GAA clubs to All of Limerick GAA clubs to hold a unique membership cardhold a unique membership card

Appointment of Regeneration GDA Games Manager County Management Committee

Completed A visible coaching presence in disadvantaged areas

Report from Limerick rbanisation Report from Limerick rbanisation Development CommitteeDevelopment Committee

L DC L DC CompletedCompleted An up to date analysis of An up to date analysis of rbanisation issuesrbanisation issues

Appoint County Demographic Committee to review and report on social and population trends arising from Census 2011

County Management Committee Limerick rbanisation Development Committee County Demographic Committee

2012-2013 A clear picture of how we need to address social and population issues for the benefit of Limerick GAA

Publication of new and updated edition of Publication of new and updated edition of 100 Years of Glory100 Years of Glory

Limerick 125 Limerick 125 Anniversary CommitteeAnniversary Committee

20122012 A newly updated history and A newly updated history and reference book for the GAA in reference book for the GAA in LimerickLimerick

Pilot GAA Social Initiative Programme County Cultural Committee

Commenced 2010

To have consolidate the Association’s role as a vehicle for community and social inclusion.

Pilot “Have a Go Days” as an introduction Pilot “Have a Go Days” as an introduction initiative for newcomers to our gamesinitiative for newcomers to our games

Coaching and Games Coaching and Games CommitteeCommitteeClub OfficersClub Officers

Piloting in 2 Piloting in 2 clubs in 2011 clubs in 2011

An inclusive and welcoming An inclusive and welcoming environment in Limerick GAAenvironment in Limerick GAA

National Club Accreditation Programme rolled out to all clubs in Limerick

County Development Officer

Piloted in 2012. Rolled out to all in 2013

Limerick GAA Clubs have structures and procedures in place to ensure that they following best practice

28


Our Aim: Structured Development of our Administration and Facilities

Limerick GAA recognises the necessity for a structured and

comprehensive approach to planning, physical development

and infrastructural review. Our club and county facilities rank

with the best but we are mindful of the need to pay particular

attention to the continued progression of our units in this area.

We will continue to assist clubs with their planning and development

projects as well as seeking to expand our county grounds.

Our administrative infrastructure will also be examined

through the establishment of a new review process which is

outlined below.

Our approach to Planning and Infrastructure will be:

• Forward looking

• Targeted

• Achievable

• Structured

Key projects in this area will include:

Club Planning.

As part of the National Strategic Vision and Action plan, a

new template for club planning was created. We will make

this template available to all Limerick clubs and encourage

and assist them in developing their own club plans. A new

team of Club Planning Facilitators have been recruited and

trained. These facilitators are available through the County

Development Officer. Several clubs have already embarked

on this process and it is envisaged that 20% of clubs will have

commenced a development plan by the end of 2011.

Centre of Excellence.

The creation of a Limerick Centre of Excellence for the

development of our teams and players has long been an

ambition of Limerick GAA. We are pleased to unveil the multi-

million euro facility at Mick Neville Park in Rathkeale as the

site of this long awaited project. Mick Neville Park has been

transformed into a first-class venue comprising of 5 playing

fields with multiple floodlighting and including both sand-

based and all-weather 3G pitches. Ancillary features include

handball alleys, hurling wall and indoor training facility. The

Centre of Excellence will play a key part in the training and

preparation of our players and squads.

Pairc na nGael

The last twelve months have seen the further enhancement

of Pairc na nGael as a major inter-county and international

venue. Floodlighting, new and refurbished dressing rooms,

greater disabled access, new substitute and 4th official areas

are just some of the additional features to be introduced to

our primary county ground.

However, if we are to maximise the potential of the Gaelic

Grounds, we need to look at alternative uses for the venue.

In line with the utility expansion provisions outlined in

the Funding and Financial Excellence chapter, it is further

proposed to apply for planning permission to hold concerts

in Pairc na nGael.

This departure will be mutually beneficial to both Limerick

GAA and the local economy as we seek to build our network

of business partners. The revenue generated from such

events will be channelled back into our games development

programme to assist with the promotion of our games.

Administrative Review.

The manner in which we govern our affairs is always the

subject of much debate. It is our aim to oversee a focused and

effective administration model. To this end, we will introduce

a Structural Review Committee to include expertise from both

inside and outside the county’s administration.

This committee will conduct a comprehensive review of:

• Administrative structures

• Committees and sub-committees

• County Convention

• Elections and Appointments

Each committee and sub-committee will have clearly

defined terms of reference and mission statements. We

will consolidate where necessary in order to provide a more

efficient model for the running of our affairs.

Planning & Infrastructure

29


Implementation MechanismsA clear monitoring, review and implementation process is vital if this plan is to succeed. The County Committee will appoint a Monitoring and Implementation Committee which will have responsibility for ensuring that Plan tasks are being undertaken and targets being met. It is envisaged that this committee will meet quarterly in the first year of implementation and bi-annually thereafter. It will report regularly to County Committee and will present an annual report to County Convention.

Our review of the plan will include an annual Club Forum where a detailed review of all relevant aspects of the Plan will

be completed by Club representatives. This will involve the assessment of the current initiatives, their appropriateness for the needs of the club/county and the identification of additional initiatives to assist in the completion of achieving the goals and objectives outlined in the Plan.

In late 2013-early 2014, a Steering Group will be established to begin the process of formulating the Limerick GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2016 – 2021. It is intended that we will always have a Development Plan in place for the future as we seek to address the needs of our Association as we move towards the 150th Anniversary of the foundation of

the GAA.

Planning & Infrastructure cont.

30


ActionAction InvolvesInvolves TimelineTimeline Luimneach 2015Luimneach 2015Appoint Monitoring and Implementation Appoint Monitoring and Implementation Committee to oversee the progress of this Committee to oversee the progress of this planplan

County Management County Management Committee Committee Monitoring and Monitoring and Implementation Implementation CommitteeCommittee

20112011 To have achieved all tasks, aims To have achieved all tasks, aims and actions outlined in this planand actions outlined in this plan

Appoint Steering Group to begin work on the next County Plan

County Management Committee Monitoring and Implementation Committee

2015 To have commenced the process leading to the Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2016 - 2020

Aim to have at least one floodlight and all-Aim to have at least one floodlight and all-weather venue in each Divisionweather venue in each Division

County Development County Development Committee Committee County Management County Management CommitteeCommittee

20152015 To have a greater range of To have a greater range of facilities available to assist with facilities available to assist with the management of the fixtures the management of the fixtures programmeprogramme

To train Facilitators to assist in the Club Planning process

County Development Officer Munster Club and County Support Committee

Completed To have qualified personnel on hand to assist our clubs

Roll out the Club Planning ProcessRoll out the Club Planning Process County Development County Development Committee Committee County FacilitatorsCounty Facilitators

OngoingOngoing All Limerick clubs to have a Club All Limerick clubs to have a Club Plan in placePlan in place

Assist clubs in updating Club Trustees and vesting of club property in Association

County Development Committee

Ongoing All club property and Trustees will be vested, current and up to date

To continue to develop and promote Pairc To continue to develop and promote Pairc na nGael as a premier inter-county facilityna nGael as a premier inter-county facility

Pairc na nGael Pairc na nGael Development Development CommitteeCommittee

OngoingOngoing To have Pairc na nGael To have Pairc na nGael consolidated as a modern, consolidated as a modern, comfortable and safe inter-comfortable and safe inter-county venuecounty venue

To encourage and assist clubs in maximising the potential of their own facilities through development and Grants process

County Development Officer Munster Council Representatives

Ongoing Excellent club facilities for the promotion and enjoyment of our games

To review all of our county committee,To review all of our county committee, sub-committee and convention structures sub-committee and convention structures

Structural Review Structural Review Committee Committee County Management County Management CommitteeCommittee

20122012 A structured, efficient A structured, efficient and focused approach to and focused approach to AdministrationAdministration

To review our bye-laws and regulations and monitor adherence with same

County Bye-laws Committee County Management Committee

Reporting in 2011

Updated bye-laws and regulations in accordance with An Treoir Oifiguil

Annual Club Forum to review Annual Club Forum to review implementation of the plan and discuss implementation of the plan and discuss future targets heldfuture targets held

County Development County Development CommitteeCommittee

AnnualAnnual Progress of plan implementation Progress of plan implementation reviewed by our club officers on reviewed by our club officers on an annual basisan annual basis

31


As we enter 2011, Limerick GAA finds itself facing some

stark choices. We can stagnate or we can grow and

develop our games and structures. The force of our

history should not constrain us. It should inspire us and

instil in us a drive to make Limerick great again.

This plan is merely a template for setting out the paths

to success. The effort and endeavour will have to come

from us all if we are to achieve our aims. Our county

and our games are changing and we must change with

them. We must be willing to embrace new concepts that

previously seemed alien to us. We must be progressive

and practical to ensure the future of our games,

members and players.

It must be borne in mind that the Strategic Vision and

Action Plan is a work in progress and will be subject to

constant monitoring and review. We believe that the

aims and visions set out herein are achievable. For them

to be achieved, we will require the co-operation and

dedication of all our Gaels.

We can only progress if we are united. Perhaps the

single entity that will unite us all is our County Crest. It

is bigger than us all. It contains something for everyone,

whatever their chosen role.

Our County Crest encompasses a sense of identity for

all Limerick people. No matter where in the county you

hail from, you can identify with some aspect of the Crest.

From the ancient Treaty Stone to the majestic Shannon

and to the fertile plains of the Golden Vale, let us move

forward together mindful of the words inscribed on the

hearts of all who wear our colours.

Cuimhnigh ar Luimeach!

Towards the Future

32


County Management/County CommitteeWill be involved in:

• Adoption and launch of Strategic Vision and Action Plan

• Appointment of Plan Monitoring and Implementation Committee

• Appointment of Steering Group to oversee formulation of next Strategic Plan

• Appointment of Structural Review sub-committee• Appointment of County Demographic sub-

committee• Appointment of Post-Primary sub-committee• Adoption of report of bye-laws sub-committee• Appointment of Fixtures Planners• Establishment of Mick Neville Park as our Centre of

Excellence• Commission and adoption of Lifting the Treaty 2

report• Providing support and assistance to other Plan Tasks

County Development Officer/CommitteeWill be involved in:

• Rollout of Volunteer Toolkit• Organisation of Volunteer Workshop• Volunteer Recognition Scheme• Club Officer Training and Support• Club Mentoring Programme• Communications Workshop• Use of GAA email solution and Members

Management System• Club Planning Programme• Assistance with Development Grant scheme• Rollout of Club Maith Accreditation Scheme• Recruitment and training of club facilitators• Providing support and assistance to other Plan Tasks

County Treasurer/Finance CommitteeWill be involved in:

• Instigation of County Finance and Audit Committee• Rollout of Financial Toolkit• Use of GAA Financial software• Establishment of Squad Budgets• Club Audits• Lifting Limerick• Attraction of sponsors and funding opportunities• Limerick GAA Season Ticket scheme• Facilities Expansion• Club Officer Training• County Grounds Automation• Providing support and assistance to other Plan Tasks

County PRO/Communications CommitteeWill be involved in:

• Relaunch of limerickgaa.ie• Rollout of Limerick TV• Rollout of Facebook and Twitter sites• Communications Newsletter and Calendar• Working with local and national media• Collation and distribution of fixtures and results• Production of Limerick GAA Yearbook• Production of match programmes• Communications survey and audit• Communications Workshop• Club Officer Training• Providing support and assistance to other Plan Tasks

Coaching Officer/Games Manager/GDAsWill be involved in:

• Establishment of Coaching and Games HQ in University of Limerick

• Expansion of Club-School link• County Development Squads• Player Development and Welfare programme• Coach Education programme• Respect Initiative• Rollout of Code of Best Practice• Cul Camps• Expansion of Go Games, Super touch and

Recreational Games• Regeneration and inclusion initiatives• Providing support and assistance for other Plan Tasks

Irish and Cultural Officer/Cultural CommitteeWill be involved in:

• Assisting Club Irish and Cultural Officers• Promotion of Scor and cultural activities• GAA Social Initiative Programme• Publication of updated edition of 100 Years of Glory• Promotion of Irish language• Providing support and assistance for other Plan Tasks

Coisde na Reiteoiri/Referee Co ordinatorWill be involved in:

• Referee recruitment and foundation training• In-service courses for active referees• Umpire training programme• Respect Initiative• Piloting of Cara system involving new and

experienced referees

Summary of Plan Tasks and Responsibilities

33


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSOn behalf of Limerick GAA I would like to thank all of those who contributed to the process

of helping to formulate this plan

Is Mise

Liam O SuilleabhainOifigeach Forbatha

Tom BennisDavid Breen

Sean CondonJoey Carton

Pat CulhaneOllie CoffeyHelen Cross John Collins

Br. James Dormer Ger Downes

Tom FoxMike Fitzgerald

Pat Fitzgerald Donal Fitzgibbon

John Galvin JnrNoel Hartigan

Owen Hayes Maurice Horan

Denis HolmesJimmy Hickey

Pat Heffernan JnrLiam Lenihan Kieran Leddy

Joe LyonsDenis MartinHenry Martin

Richard MoloneyJohn Mortell

James Moynihan

Catherine MurphySeamus MurphyBrian O’CarrollEoghan O’ConnorEibhear O’Dea Pat O’Donnell Colette O’Grady Donal O’GradyDonal ‘Dodge’ O’Grady Barry O’Halloran Mike O’ Riordan Adrian O’Sullivan Eoghan O’SullivanPaddy O’Sullivan Patricia O’SullivanSean Og Herbert Eamon Phelan Gerry Phillips Damien QuigleyMike Rea Denis Richardson Donie RyanJames Ryan TJ Ryan Seanie Tobin Paddy Verdon John R WalshKeith Wiseman

34


Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP):

GAA programme that focuses on minimising the harm

being caused by alcohol and drugs in society.

Award 1:

Coach education programme that qualifies the

participant to be a lead coach for either child, youth or

adult players.

Award 2:

Coach education programme that qualifies the

participant to be an advanced coach for either child,

youth or adult players.

Award 3:

Coach education programme that qualifies participant

to be a master coach for either child, youth or adult

players.

Centres of excellence:

Purpose built facilities, usually incorporating an all

weather facility to be used by a number of club, school

and County teams.

Club Maith:

This is a certification programme for clubs and their

volunteers who have demonstrated excellence in

a wide range of criteria. It is independently set and

assessed.

Club School Link:

Club support for local primary schools to ensure

promotion of the club and the games

Cúl Camps:

An organised camp for children aged between seven

and 13. They are run by qualified coaches and usually

held during the summer.

Go Games:

Small sided skill development games for under 12’s that

focus solely on skill development and participation

GNP:

Grassroots to National Programme. GAA games

development strategy which aims to maximise

participation and optimise playing standards.

Grassroots to National Programme (GNP):

GAA Games Development Strategy which aims to

maximise participation and optimise playing standards.

‘Have-a-go day’:

A series of football and hurling recreational blitzes

held for individuals or groups who have had little or

no involvement in the GAA previously. These are held

at club locations for newcomer or non-traditional

communities.

Introductory Award:

Basic coach education for beginner coaches for child,

youth and adult players.

Scór:

Initiatives and activities in which GAA members engage

to promote Irish music, dancing and culture.

Supertouch 7s, 9s, 11s:

Small sided skill development games for youth players.

U-Can Awards

Series of skill challenges for primary school children

Glossary of Terms:

Limerick GAA, Gaelic Grounds,Ennis Road, Limerick

Tel: 061 326 500Fax: 061 326 501Email: [email protected]

Documents

Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2011-2015sportlomo-userupload.s3.amazonaws.com/uploaded/18/Limerick... · The Strategic Plan published today is the next step in the process. It is