Games & Gaels Episode 2

Féile 2026 lands, Go Games rethink, and schools & clubs powering up

In episode two, Shane Keegan and Dean Malone open with a big win for the county: Laois & Carlow will co-host Féile 2026. The first prep meeting is already pencilled for next week, with both hurling and camogie strands involved. Expect major volunteer coordination, venue planning and a welcome boost for local businesses as the marquee underage festival returns.

Listener input is front and centre this week. Shane invites feedback directly — by phone — and dives into two live Go Games debates: should competitions begin at U8 rather than U7, and should underage hurling trial a no-soloing rule to encourage quicker decision-making and more striking off both sides? He’ll see that rule in action at an U11 tournament this weekend.

Schools are moving too.

The Laois GAA Schools Heritage Flag returns after a strong first year; applications are already landing, with last year’s participants showcasing noticeboards, skill “homework,” lunchtime leagues and guest visits from club/county players. On the club pathway, Athletic Development Leads are now named in around 80% of clubs, with an online info evening on Wednesday, October 1 to outline supports, resources and the new GAA athletic development course running across October–November.

Dean reports a fast start to the TY Future Leaders roll-out, combining Intro to Coaching, safeguarding and Young Whistlers accreditation — a real pipeline for nursery and Go Games refereeing and coaching. Finally, the team recaps a lively first-year hurling blitz featuring 6 schools and 8 teams, highlighting talent and enthusiasm as pupils pull on their new school colours.

Got a suggestion for Laois GAA? Reach out — the lads want your ideas.

Contacts (feedback & info):

📞 Shane Keegan — 087 657 7256

📞 Dean Malone — 085 202 1161

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