Gaelic games are rapidly gaining popularity in Asia, particularly among women. The GAA reports that clubs are expanding, with notable growth in teams such as the VietCelts Hanoi. The inclusive nature of these sports fosters community bonds and cultural engagement while receiving support from the Irish government. This has resulted in increased participation and a greater global understanding of Irish culture.
In a vibrant setting in Bangkok, 20 women engage in a Gaelic football training session, displaying skills like kicking and passing the ball. This scene is indicative of the growing interest in Gaelic games across Asia, including hurling and camogie. Newer players are mentored by experienced ones, fostering a community spirit.
Rajveer Chowdhary, a sports science consultant, expresses his appreciation for Gaelic football’s rich history and sense of community, having started with the Indian Wolfhounds in 2018. Players also bond over post-training drinks, highlighting the social aspect of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) communities appreciated by Mozz Piokliang, a long-time player and referee in Bangkok.
The surge in Gaelic games is evident, with the GAA noting 22 active clubs in Asia. Notably, women’s participation is increasing dramatically. For instance, the VietCelts Hanoi team expanded from 12 to over 30 players between 2018 and 2022, focusing on promoting women in sports through female-led coaching.
These games provide opportunities, especially for women, to navigate cultural boundaries, as Joe Trolan from the Asian GAA discusses. Sports allow participants to escape societal constraints and embrace communal engagement. In Vietnam, the acceptance of women’s sports like Gaelic football is viewed positively amidst a traditionally conservative atmosphere.
Players appreciate the lack of pressure in Gaelic football, where everyone is new to the game, as mentioned by Phuong Nguyen and Piokliang. This environment attracts many non-Irish players, drawn to the community ethos carried over from Ireland, enhancing inclusivity in the sport.
The Asian Gaelic Games and South Asian Gaelic Games have expanded significantly since their inception, illustrating the growing interest in this sport. Participation has jumped from about six to 72 teams, reflecting its increasing globalization and acceptance.
The Irish government’s support plays a crucial role in fostering the international Gaelic sports community. Through funding under its Diaspora Strategy, the government enhances connections within the Irish diaspora by supporting GAA initiatives worldwide.
Logistics such as pitch rentals and training costs present challenges, particularly in cities like Bangkok. Local support, including from the Irish foreign affairs department, has become vital for maintaining operational viability and promoting Gaelic sports.
As the GAA expands globally, it has amassed over 400 clubs outside Ireland. Events have attracted local officials, contributing to Ireland’s brand recognition abroad. This cultural exchange fosters greater understanding of Irish society among international players, elevating perceptions and encouraging visits to Ireland in the future.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
