Mullingar Shamrocks included in the Healthy Club Programme …

In Croke Park, on Wednesday night (18 April 2018) Mullingar Shamrocks were formally included in the GAA’s Healthy Club Programme (HCP). Over the next eighteen months Shamrocks will be expected to implement the seven-point plan required to achieve the Healthy Club Recognition. Healthy Clubs seek to expand their positive influence beyond the playing field, and implement policies, partnerships, and programmes designed to support the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of their communities.

This is an important recognition for Mullingar Shamrocks; only 150 of the GAA’s 1600 clubs are included in the programme and our club’s involvement recognises the work of our Healthy Club Officer, Joan Ormsby since she took on the challenge of the post in January 2017 and Joan’s efforts in submitting the application for inclusion in the programme. Joan’s (and the club’s) first task is to establish a Healthy Club Committee and expressions of interested from interested parties and organisations are invited. Contact Joan and let her know that you or your organisation are interested in being involved.   

Created in 2013, with the support of the HSE, National Office for Suicide Prevention, Irish Life and Healthy Ireland, the intention of the HCP is that every GAA club will eventually become a hub for health and wellbeing.

Each participating club is supported in how best to make their club more health-enhancing, covering a variety of topics including, physical activity; emotional wellbeing; health screening; healthy eating; drug, alcohol, and gambling education; anti-smoking; youth and community development, alongside providing activities for older members of the community.