The Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative is a partnership between the GAA, Foróige, NUI Galway and the Dermot Earley family which aims to enable young people to enhance their leadership skills and qualities and challenges them to use these skills both on and off the pitch for the betterment of society. 

The programme aims to empower young people to make a positive difference to their society through the practice of effective leadership.

It is based on the values and leadership qualities demonstrated by the late Dermot Earley Senior, one of the GAA’s and Ireland’s greatest leaders. The Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative has been accredited by the National University of Ireland, Galway, as a Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action.

The programme is aimed at 15–18-year-olds and is ideal for those in transition year. It consists of 3 modules, with the 3rd module as optional. On completion of Module 3 participants will be awarded a Level 6 FETAC third level qualification from Galway University. The modules are a mix of workshops delivered by facilitators and self-reflection and learning activities.

This programme requires a commitment from our young members to attending all sessions and engaging in the activities to get the most out of the experience. It is a fantastic opportunity.

This will be the first time Ardclough GAA would run this exciting programme. However, we need some volunteers to help run this initiative. The programme will need to be facilitated by trained Ardclough volunteers and the programme will be held in the club. 

The next round of facilitator training takes place in March - online via zoom for 3 nights from 7 to 10pm.(Monday 24th , Wednesday 26th & Monday 31st March). 

For more information or if you can deliver the training please contact Aoife at secretary.ardclough.kildare@gaa.ie