About Youth GAA NSW

Building community, culture and confidence through every camp, every coach, every kick.

We are the youth division of New South Wales GAA — proudly growing Gaelic Games from Irish roots to Aussie fields.

Each year, we run inclusive, energetic camps and programs designed to connect young people through sport, culture and community. With experienced coaches, passionate volunteers and a growing Gaelic family across NSW, this is more than a game. It’s a place to grow.

Ready to Join the Movement?

Be part of the story as we grow Gaelic Games across NSW —
one joyful kick, pass and cheer at a time.

Michael O’Keeffe

Chair

Originally from Wexford, I’ve been living in Sydney since 2011 and involved in GAA for over 20 years—playing, coaching and managing from my home club St. Anne’s to college teams in Cork IT and Dublin IT. In Sydney, I joined Central Coast GAA, playing hurling and coaching hurling and camogie. In 2024, a question back home sparked the idea of Youth GAA Sydney—and with Donnacha Lynch and Jimmy Larkin, we made it happen. Now we’re building something special: a place where kids can play, belong and stay connected to Irish culture through the joy of Gaelic Games.

Jimmy Larkin

Vice Chair

I’m from Kilkee in West Clare — a football stronghold in a hurling county — and I’ve been involved in GAA for as long as I can remember. My home club is St Senan’s Kilkee and since moving to Sydney in 2008, I’ve been part of Michael Cusacks. I coached underage teams at home for several years before taking a break, then returned to the sideline to manage both the Senior and Junior men’s teams at Michael Cusacks after finishing up as a player. Seventeen years later, I’m still passionate about the GAA and its role in community and connection.

Cara Connaire

Secretary

Originally from Longford, I’ve been living in Sydney for 20 years and am proud to call Michael Cusacks my club away from home. I began my coaching journey through OOSH programs, introducing Gaelic Football to kids in after-school settings. I’ve recently completed the Introduction to Coaching Gaelic Games qualification, which has helped deepen my approach to coaching with younger players. My goal is simple — to help kids fall in love with the game, have fun, and grow both on and off the pitch through skills, teamwork and connection. GAA has always been part of who I am.

Our Story

Youth GAA NSW isn’t new — but we’re just getting started.

From our early camps to a growing calendar of Gaelic Games across Sydney, we’ve seen firsthand how sport builds connection, confidence and cultural pride.

In 2024, we laid the groundwork with successful camps, skilled coaches and community support. Now, we're stepping into our next chapter — bigger, bolder, and ready to welcome every young player into the game.

Our Mission

To grow and promote a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable community for young people in New South Wales through Gaelic Games — blending play, culture and belonging in every kick, every pass, every moment.

Our Promise

A place where all kids feel welcome, confident and connected — no matter their background.

Youth GAA NSW is where Irish heritage meets Aussie energy and the Gaelic spirit grows strong from the ground up.

Our Values

At Youth GAA Sydney, our values are more than just words — they’re the heartbeat of every camp, every coach, every connection.

They guide how we welcome new families, how we design our sessions, and how we show up — on and off the pitch. Whether it’s a first-time kicker or a lifelong Gaelic family, our values create the kind of environment where kids feel safe, seen and excited to grow.

They remind us that what happens on the field echoes far beyond it — shaping confidence, community and cultural pride across Sydney.

Inclusion

Every child is welcome — regardless of skill, background or heritage. We create spaces where everyone belongs and Gaelic Games are truly for all.

Joy in Movement (Fun)

We lead with fun, not pressure. Whether it’s a first kick or a team cheer, we believe connection grows best through play.

Cultural Connection

Irish roots, proudly celebrated. We honour heritage through sport, stories, language and shared community moments.

Develop Through Play

Confidence and resilience are built through experience. Our games and camps support personal growth, teamwork, and skill-building from the ground up.

Simplicity

Simple systems. Clear communication. A welcoming experience — from first-time families to lifelong players.

Meet the Committee

The Team Behind the Whistle
Our committee is made up of passionate volunteers, parents and players who bring heart, heritage and hands-on support to everything we do.

From planning camps to cheering on the sidelines, these are the people working behind the scenes to grow Gaelic Games across Sydney — ensuring every child has a place to play, belong and thrive.

Donnacha Lynch

PRO

I’m originally from County Leitrim, where I played senior football with Allen Gaels, Drumshanbo for 18 years. My coaching journey began with the Connacht Council, delivering GAA programs in primary schools across Leitrim. After moving to Sydney, I continued that work at grassroots level in Ingleburn, before managing Clan na Gael’s Senior and Intermediate teams for five years. I also served as NSW Senior Men’s Manager and had the honour of managing Australia at the 2023 GAA World Games. I’m passionate about developing players, building inclusive teams and strengthening the Gaelic football community both here and back home.

Alan Smyth

Assistant PRO & Registrar

Originally from Kells, County Meath, I played underage football with Round Towers and Pobalscoil Ciaran, and lined out for Ballinlough Minors and the Senior panel that won both A and B Leagues in 1999. Now living in Sydney for 14 years, I coach my daughter in soccer and AFL — but seeing both of my daughters proudly wearing their gear at NSW GAA camps reminded me where it all started. That moment, and the joy on other families’ faces, inspired me to join the committee and help grow Gaelic Games here. I’ve recently completed the GAA Coaches Course in Sydney.

Miceál Bradley

Gear & Logistics

I’m proud to be part of the NSW GAA kids program, continuing a family tradition rooted in community and the GAA spirit. My late father, PJ Bradley, served with both the Down County and South Down GAA Boards and was secretary of our local club, St Mary's Burren. His uncle, Peadar Barry, was Secretary of Down GAA from 1926–1957 and became Lifetime President, famously welcoming the Sam Maguire to the North in 1960. My Granny Annie often reminded us, “no one ever asks who washed all their jerseys.” I’m honoured to carry forward that legacy here in Sydney.