September 6th, 2015 | Uncategorized
Today was the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship, for all the Americans, I would equate it with being as big as the Super Bowl.
Before continuing, I am sure there are people reading this confused as to what hurling is (when I first heard of it, I definitely was). Hurling is a very physical sport consisting of a long wooden paddle, and a ball similar to a baseball. The object is to hit the ball into the goal, or hit it through the goal posts, similar to the field goals in American football.
After attempting to play hurling last week, I was very interested to see the experts play. Needless to say, they looked far more coordinated, and made all the plays look effortless. It made me appreciate the sport far more knowing how difficult it was firsthand. I struggled making contact with the ball, let alone smacking it 50 yards down the field at 80-90 mph.
Not only was it very difficult technique-wise, but also incredibly physical. Watching how intense the hits and tackles were, with hardly any foul calls, made it extremely interesting to watch. Comparing it to American sports, I can’t say there are any that are as physical as this one.
Above all else, the best part was that the stadium was filled to capacity with over 80,000 people… for an amateur game. No one in the game of hurling is paid to play; they all do it for fun and for the love of the game. It is definitely refreshing to see athletes play the game they love with no strings attached.
After watching a phenomenal final, it is safe to say, that I have found a new sport to follow; one that I will remain a spectator in.
I would also like to give my awesome UL Huskies teammate, Gillian, a shout out for watching the game with me and dealing with my rapid fire of questions!
Victory Scholar: Sarah Benedetti
Present University: University of Limerick
US League: NEC
Club/Community Partner: UL Huskies
Alma Mater: St. Francis College
Sponsored by: Teamwear Ireland
