DCU awards accreditation to GAA coaches

The DCU GAA Academy, on Monday evening, awarded certificates at DCU’s Sportsgrounds to local GAA volunteers and intercounty players who completed the recent level one GAA coaching course. Indicative of DCU’s commitment to engagement and outreach, the course is part of a unique joint initiative by DCU GAA Academy in collaboration with the Dublin GAA County Board and it is the first of its kind that has been rolled out at University level.

Jason Sherlock, Ross Munnelly, Paul Griffin, Paul Casey and Declan Lally were among those who took part in the course and the Award 1 GAA coaching certificate provides coaches with the fundamental understandings and competencies required to be displayed whilst working with various populations in Gaelic games.

Key modules covered throughout the course include Technical Proficiency, Tactical Prowess, Team Play, Physical Fitness, Psychological Focus and Communication. The award is the second grade in the GAA coaching pathway.

The accolades were awarded by Coaching Ireland after the completion of a six-week course and a number of high-profile coaches were involved in the tutoring, including former Laois manager Sean Dempsey and Dublin Games Development Officer Ger O’Connor.

Speaking about the course, Michael Kennedy, Director of the DCU GAA Academy, said:

“I would like to congratulate all the participants who have received coaching certificates from DCU. Our GAA mentoring at the University is of a very high standard and we have been delighted to share our expertise over the past number of weeks with a variety of people. We are constantly seeking excellence and now, with the help of the Dublin County Board, we feel we can bring even higher standards to the DCU GAA Academy.”