Our nursery introduces boys and girls aged 4–7 to Gaelic games (Football, Hurling & Camogie) in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment. We prioritise enjoyment, participation for all abilities, and a safe, welcoming atmosphere led by trained volunteer coaches. Equipment will be provided to new joiners if necessary.

We are committed to an environment where every child belongs, supported by the values of the club.

• Welcoming and inclusive environment where every child feels welcome
• Games-based stations focused on fundamental movement skills (balance, coordination, agility)
• Qualified, friendly coaches
• Focus on fun and participation for all
• Strong community values and belonging for all children
• Begin lifelong membership of the club and develop a love of Gaelic Games

Children are split into groups based on their year of birth with boys/girls in the same groups for the early years of nursery before forming their own separate groups during their U6 year.

Sessions are delivered in short, dynamic stations (movement, ball-handling, striking, teamwork), keeping children engaged and active. The emphasis is on fun first, with simple progressions for different ages and abilities.

The coaching programme in nursery follows the Ballinteer St Johns Player Pathway with focus as follows:

• Ages 4–5 (fun games, movement & play)
• Ages 6–7 (movement + introductory ball skills & mini-games)

Each child will receive a nursery training jersey with their first name on the back and sleeves as part of membership to encourage connections / relationships between the children and coaches.

The nursery is governed by the club’s child protection policy.

Parents/guardians are warmly encouraged to get involved as coaches, helpers, or administrators. The children love seeing their parents involved! It is much more fun to get involved than watch on the sideline. The commitment is only from week to week, as you are available, as we operate a large pool of volunteers for each age group.

No previous GAA playing or coaching experience is required for volunteers. Training will be offered, and we will support you to work through the Garda Vetting / Safeguarding process.

• Turn up on a Saturday morning and join in!
• If you have questions or require more information, please contact your respective lead mentors for each age group.

Our nursery is where the journey begins — where friendships form, skills develop, and a love for Gaelic games takes hold. We’re incredibly proud that two of our own, Orlagh Nolan and Grace O’Shea, who first picked up a football and hurley here as nursery players, have gone on to represent Dublin at the highest level in both Ladies Football and Camogie.

Their achievements are a shining example of what’s possible when fun, encouragement, and community combine. They show every young boy and girl who steps onto our pitches that big dreams can start small — with their first solo, first strike, and first smile at training.

The Mini All Irelands bring Marlay Park to life with over 1,400 participants showcasing their football, hurling, and camogie skills across two exciting weeks in late May and early June.

And the magic moment? Watching our U6 nursery stars take to the field for their very first organised games!