Read Mode

Hurling



Hurling is a game played by two teams that date back 2,000 years. The Irish mythology includes the game prominently, in particular, in Cú Chulainn's epic saga. Throughout Ireland, especially in more fertile agricultural regions, as well as abroad, hurling is played. Several references to hurling (known as iomáin' in Gaelic) can be found in the earliest Irish manuscripts dating from the 13th century. In Gaelic, the stick is called a 'caman' or hurley. Historically, hurling has been played between neighboring clans or rival parishes. There can be unlimited numbers of players on either side. In 1884 the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) was founded in Thurles, County Tipperary, to revive and re-establish hurling and other traditional Irish pastimes.

In traditional games, the number of players was not regulated. Adult teams consisted of fifteen players. The game is played on a marked pitch, with the players using a wooden stick (hurley), which is similar to a hockey stick, but with flat ends. A small ball is used, known as a sliotar. Hurlers are male, camógs are female, and on average the size of the field is 137 meters long and 82 meters wide with a goal post at each end. In the game, players use hurleys to hit a small ball called a 'sliotar' between a goalpost for one point or under the crossbar for three points. No protective padding is required for the players, as of 2010. As of 2010, plastic protective helmets with face guards are mandatory for all age groups. Known as the "bastion of humility", the players' jerseys do not include their names, and numbers are determined by the player's position on the field. A women's version of the game is called 'camogie'.

Since the foundation of the GAA in 1884, which resulted from the introduction of a set of official rules, the game of hurling has evolved into the game we know today. The original idea of man-on-man contests within a positional sport has been added to and eroded over the years to varying degrees. The sport of hurling is a vital part of Irish culture, promoting health and well-being, inclusiveness, and the spirit of teamwork. Since the Gaelic Athletic Association is the custodian of Hurling, it has a vital role to play in promoting and transmitting the skills and values associated with this sport. Originally, these skills were taught by coaches and through games in schools and clubs. Today, the GAA and Camogie Association, both volunteer-led organizations, play an important role in promoting and transmitting these values. With over 2,500 membership clubs, the GAA is the largest amateur sporting association in the world with more than 800 clubs outside of Ireland. Today, hurling is regarded as the oldest, fastest, and most skillful field game in the world.


Edit
Discussion
History