GAA has long been a constant that brings communities together, and at times, holds them together. As the Irish diaspora continues to grow abroad, that sense of connection is felt in nearly every corner of the world.
It’s a sentiment that Leitrim woman Julie Reynolds understands well. Originally from Aughnasheelin, she is currently studying veterinary medicine in Wrocław, having moved there due to the highly competitive nature of veterinary courses in Ireland.
She described the move as “tough,” adjusting to a new country, culture and language while also taking on a full-time course.
Four years ago, Julie helped establish a Gaelic football club in Wrocław, which has since grown to over 50 members. This growth mirrors that of the wider Irish community in the city, with more than 120 Irish students now attending their college.
“As the years have gone by, we can really see how the club has helped the younger years settle in. It’s a way to bring everyone together,” said Julie.
“Once you have a GAA club anywhere in the world, you have a piece of home with you. You don’t feel that far away.”
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The club plays a vital role in fostering a sense of community, not just among Irish students, but beyond.
“There’s a few we have from Lebanon, India, England and Norway that would come and join us for a bit of football as well,” explained Julie.
The club, Wrocław Éire Óg, is currently organising a raffle to raise funds to support its activities. With the nearest GAA club located over 300km away, travelling to matches presents a significant challenge. As most members are students, the cost of travel can limit participation.
The raffle has already secured nearly 60 Irish sponsors and boasts €20,000 worth of prizes. These include two tickets to see Westlife in the 3Arena, a one-night stay at Breaffy House Resort, and a lunch for two at The Lake Hotel Killarney, among many other prizes.
“The raffle started with calling a few people and getting a few prizes. We didn’t think it would be as big as it is!” exclaimed Julie.
In addition to supporting the club, proceeds from the raffle will also go towards the Irish Veterinary Benevolent Fund, which provides financial and mental health support to veterinary professionals and their families.
“We are also going to join with the Irish Veterinary Benevolent Fund which is a really important charity that provides financial and mental health care for vets and their families.
“The profession has one of the highest rates of suicide and mental illness. So we decided to highlight this important case that we’re all going to be stepping into,” said Julie.
Reflecting on the scale of the fundraiser, €20,000 in prizes and over €12,000 raised so far, Julie emphasised the generosity behind it.
“Everyone has been so generous and we’re so grateful for the support. It really goes to show the power of the GAA and Irish communities.”
The club is registered with Gaelic Games Europe, which Julie says has been instrumental in making their activities possible by organising tournaments throughout the year.
On the impact the fundraising will have, she described it as “huge,” particularly in helping to cover travel costs and equipment.
“We don’t work out here, we all work at home and then come back. It will help the students be able to go and experience these tournaments. It’s a whole group of people that understand each other moving abroad,” she said.
Funds raised will also contribute towards establishing hurling and camogie teams in Wrocław, which are currently in development.
The raffle draw will take place on Saturday, May 16, with winners announced live on the Wrocław Éire Óg social media channels.
Tickets are available on iDonate at this link. They can also be purchased in Mulvey’s in Drumshanbo, with posters displayed in various SuperValu stores and Co-ops.
