GAA Clubs invited to go ‘Off the Booze & On the Ball’

Members of GAA clubs across the province have once again been challenged to go ‘Off the Booze and On the Ball’ in a bid to kick-start their New Year on a healthy footing and raise some funds in the process.

This fun challenge with a healthy twist invites participants to abstain from alcohol for the month of January and in doing so seek sponsorship to go towards their local GAA club. The initiative is being driven by the Association’s Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) Programme – a joint initiative with the HSE that aims to reduce the harm caused by the misuse of alcohol and other substances.

The event was launched nationally in Croke Park on Tuesday, December 4, by An Uachtarán CLG Liam O’Neill, who confirmed to the assembled media and guests that he too would take up the challenge and abstain from alcohol for the month of January. Minister of State at the Department of Health, Alex White, T.D. was attended the launch and commended the GAA for the Association’s on-going work in the area of health promotion.

Individuals and panel members can sign up at www.gaa.ie/asap where they will receive a sponsorship card and an information pack containing details on health, exercise and diet. Participating clubs are also encouraged to run a health-related activity in their community on the last weekend of their challenge such as a charity match or a fun run/walk or cycle. If January does not suit then your club can participate in the challenge in February – the online registration page will remain open. One individual can also register on behalf of an entire panel if they are interested in taking up ‘The Pint Sized Challenge’. A participating club from each province will be selected for a special prize which will be awarded in Croke Park in March.

Further information is available from your County ASAP Officers or from the GAA website at www.gaa.ie/asap