Juvenile Games Chairman      
Anthony Delaney

The juvenile section caters for children from the ages of 6 to 16. Since the founding of the club in 1981, the focus in our juvenile games has been on developing each and every child to the maximum of their ability. Each week we have over 400 children participating in Gaelic games, in our academy and boys and girls teams.  At Naomh Olaf’s, participation and inclusion are cornerstones to our philosophy. Irrelevant of talent, each child is treated with respect, helped to develop as a person and player, build friendships, and learn the traditions of Irish culture and games.

 For many the development of life long friendships and a lifelong love of Gaelic games and culture, will be the result. For others, a career, playing Football, Hurling or Camogie, well into their adult life will be the outcome. The Juvenile section of Naomh Olaf’s GAA club prides itself on providing the foundation for both.  

Our academy, which caters for children up to 7 years of age, is split into a boys and girls section - Friday nights for girls and Saturday morning for boys.  Here the young children learn the basic skills of Gaelic games, meet new friends, enjoy health exercise and develop the skills and concept of teamwork. At 8 year of age, the children start to participate in structure games against local clubs. In these early years the matches are focused on participation. As the children progress to U13, the competitive league structure is introduced. Children will remain in the juvenile section until they finish U16 games. As they move into the Minor ranks, the juvenile sections work is done, but the children’s connection to the mentors and to each other continues for many years. 

At Naomh Olaf’s, winning is not the focus. Developing the children to be the best they can, both on and off the field is what’s key. Success on the field often follows and Naomh Olaf’s looks back with pride on the achievements of its Juvenile teams over the years and looks forward to continued successes.