Hundreds of local pupils are to take part in football, fun, and meet their Galway GAA heroes on Friday, 19th September 2025
Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club has unveiled plans for a major celebration of Gaelic Games for local schoolchildren, with the Schools Football Blitz & Meet the Galway GAA Stars Day set to take place at Pearse Stadium on Friday, 19th September 2025 from 5:00pm. The event will combine football, fun, and the unique chance for young pupils to share the field with some of Galway’s top GAA and LGFA players, and giving children an opportunity to meet some of their heroes.
The Blitz is open to all boys and girls in 1st and 2nd Class across schools in Salthill, Knocknacarra, and the surrounding areas. Pupils from Scoil Iognáid, Scoil Róis, Scoil Íde, Scoil Éinde, Scoil Fhursa, St. John the Apostle NS Knocknacarra, and Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh will all be represented, along with a Galway Schools team for children from other city and county schools.
The evening will begin with registration at the Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Clubhouse, followed by a special parade of the schools around the Pearse Stadium pitch. Children will then take to the field for a series of football blitz games, before finishing the evening with a “Meet the Stars” session, where some of Galway’s top inter-county players will be on hand for photos, autographs, and skills tips.
Among those confirmed to attend so far are John Maher, Robert Finnerty, Tommo Culhane, Daniel O’Flaherty, Kate Thompson and Galway Senior Footballers Cathal Sweeney and Matthew Thompson, both of whom have expressed their excitement about meeting the young players.
Cathal Sweeney, Galway Senior Footballer said:
“When I was growing up, I was that kid looking up to the Galway players and dreaming of one day playing in Pearse Stadium. To be back here now, meeting the next generation, is something really special. I hope every boy and girl taking part enjoys the day and feels that same spark to play our games.”
Matthew Thompson, Galway Senior Football star, added:
“Days like this are about fun, friendships, and inspiration. I started playing football at school and never imagined where it would bring me. For young kids to run out onto Pearse Stadium, play with their classmates, and meet their heroes – that’s what will keep them playing and loving Gaelic Games for years to come.”
Food and refreshments will be available throughout the evening, provided by Gourmet Food Parlour.
Parents who wish to register their child can do so online at https://forms.gle/V95na4US9VHdVMcM6 or by contacting David at 087-2023447 or [email protected].
