Gaelic Players Association members to consider a number of significant motions at AGM this weekend

At the launch of its 2018 annual report, the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) today announced that a number of motions will be put forward for consideration by members at their AGM in Meath this weekend. These motions will seek to further enhance the player welfare and development support provided to GPA members and protect the long-term sustainability of Gaelic games.

The first motion is aimed at developing a closer relationship between the GPA and the Women’s Gaelic Players Association (WGPA), while the second will advocate for the establishment of a group to explore and make recommendations to work towards developing a greater Competitive Balance in the GAA. Further motions seek to review the current GAA Concussion Management Guidelines and formalise a centrally administered online expenses platform for intercounty players.

Paul Flynn, Chief Executive of the Gaelic Players Association said;

“The GPA has made great progress over the last year and our three core pillars remain an integral part of planning for the future – Player Welfare, Player Development and Player Representation. Our plan is to introduce new programmes and welfare supports for players shaped by the findings of the ESRI Report published in 2018. As part of our 2020 strategy, I will open dialogue with current and past players along with other key stakeholders to get their views and feedback on various issues. This will assist us in our strategic planning for the next three years.”

The Annual Report reports a hugely positive increase in player engagement with members, with over a thousand (1,107) GPA members benefiting from Player Development Programmes in 2018 as well as 487 Third Level scholarships, 203 Career Development Programmes along with a series of other supports including 73 Rookie Camp attendees.

Seamus Hickey, Chairman of the National Executive Committee of the GPA said;

“A new and exciting event – the inaugural Rookie camp took place in December bringing together a group of young upcoming players from across the country, in both hurling and football. This is a great example of the GPA finding ways to make the lives of GAA players, at whatever level, that little bit better, year after year.”

Financially, revenues increased (5%), reductions in overheads of 10% and a net surplus of €306,300 as compared with €10,204 the previous year.

Flynn continued;

“When I took over as Chief Executive of the GPA in September 2018, I put projects on hold while I settled into the role and got a clearer understanding of the internal workings, laying the foundations for longer term successes. There was also a decision made by the Board to build a very modest cash reserve which was executed in 2018. 2019 has been a very productive year to date with engagement levels at an all-time high and as a result a break-even year is forecasted. I’m looking forward to the year ahead, delivering a range of new services that are required for our members.”

For the full GPA 2018 Annual Report see 2018 Annual Report