I got to take in my first Hurling Match with fellow scholar Patrick. The Ulster University Elks took on a squad from Dublin. I was very amazed at the speed and intensity of the game. Those guys are pretty physical with little to any protection out there. I was lucky enough to have my classmate and friend, Simon, explain to me the rules of the game and tell me tips and tricks. He is on the team but they have a 3-man rotation at goalie and he played last game. It was a new experience but I quickly found myself into the game cheering for the Elks!
At halftime, Simon took myself and Patrick out on the field and gave us a stick to give it a try. It was a struggle to say the least, but I had fun. I must say, it looks easier than what it was. After my failed halftime experience, I gained so much more respect for those guys. For those back in the US, hurling is a mixture of lacrosse, baseball, football and rugby into one. It’s quite unique and if given the chance to play or watch, I vote you should! The Elks are a talented bunch of guys with some impressive individual players. Unfortunately, Ulster lost the game but they gained one more fan! I’m excited to follow the team the rest of the season and hopefully try this hurling thing again. Go Elks!
