It’s fair to say the Men’s Gaelic team of Atlanta had a good 2016. It was a year in which some rebuilding was done.
The year began earlier than it did in 2015, with co-ed practices at Hammond Park starting late February. This proved to be effective and was certainly a time for all to check-out the sport. New and old players did a great job working on their skills and fun was had by all who attended.
The team still had a few months before the season really started, with tournaments due later in the year. Soon after starting practices, the team showcased the sport – along with other codes in the club – at the International Women’s Rugby Seven’s at Kennesaw State University. It was an excellent exhibition held by all. At this point the team was gearing up for their first tournament of the season, The Peach Cup.
The Peach Cup brought Football Teams from Charlotte, NC and Raleigh, NC. Both teams visiting had won National Titles, the Footballers knew it would be a challenge. The first game against Raleigh went well for Atlanta – with some adjustments and coaching of newer players for the final game against the formidable Charlotte team. During the championship game, Atlanta and Charlotte traded leads until the very last minute. Charlotte was up a score, but committed a foul. This gave Atlanta the chance to take a penalty and to secure the Peach Cup and the first place bid to represent the South East Division in the 2016 National Tournament. The penalty hit the back of the net and trophy was Atlanta’s.
Later in the season, Atlanta travelled to Charlotte, NC seeking to bring home the Connolly Cup. This tournament is traditionally the most competitive in the South East and proves to be the biggest challenge for any team participating. The team traveled
very light, players knowing they would have plenty of running to do. Nevertheless, Atlanta won a hard fought battle against a stronger Raleigh team in the first round of the tournament. The second game, played against Charlotte’s B team was a testament to the heart and dedication of the players present. Atlanta again won and sent a resounding message to other clubs inthe region that Atlanta’s Football team had elevated their play and was very competitive against the fully fielded Charlotte team. The semi-final game, played against Charlotte’s A team was surprisingly close. However, in the end, home field advantage and those extra subs swung the tie to Charlotte. All who played that day for Atlanta did a fantastic job and never stopped the whole tournament.
The 2016 National Tournament, held in Seattle, WA, was insight. Many of the team members had confidence in the team dynamics and skills to make a lasting impact in the Junior division. After endless deliberation the team decided to forgo the National Tournament andre-group efforts to enter the 2017 season as a much stronger team.
To complete the year some of the players and coaches took part in a coaching class. 2016 was a year in which all who attended trainings and tournaments showcased their skills, their enthusiasm for the sport and most of all their passion to be on the field. Atlanta Men’s Gaelic Football will be a force in 2017; the team is motivated and energized for the season ahead. The future looks bright for the Gaels of Atlanta!!
– Miguel Rivera & Connla Houlahan