Advertisement
Here's some options on what to get a GAA friend for Christmas. James Crombie/INPHO
GAA presents

6 things to buy the GAA fan in your life this Christmas

All your gift ideas for a GAA enthusiast.

HAVING TROUBLE TRYING to settle on a Christmas present for the GAA enthusiast close to you?

Well, worry no more as we present the definitive selection of choices that will guarantee a positive reaction when they peel off the wrapping paper.

One of the many GAA autobiographies out on release

2016 has witnessed the publication of a few key GAA works documenting the lives of some fascinating characters.

Kieran Donaghy Kieran Donaghy holding his new book and the eir Sport Sports Book of the Year award. Morgan Treacy / INPHO Morgan Treacy / INPHO / INPHO

Kerry Donaghy – ‘What Do You Think Of That?’

The winner of eir Sports Book of the Year is a compelling read. Ghost-written by Kieran Shannon, the book addresses Donaghy’s rise in the Kingdom, his fractured relationship with his late father as well as his basketball career.

Ken McGrath Ken McGrath played an integral role in Waterford's revival. Lorraine O'Sullivan / INPHO Lorraine O'Sullivan / INPHO / INPHO

Ken McGrath – ‘Hand On Heart’

One of the best individual hurlers of the modern era released his story this year. McGrath discusses the Waterford hurling renaissance in the 90s, their intense Munster rivalry with Cork and his devotion to his club Mount Sion. Do give it some consideration when making your choice.

Alan O'Mara Alan O'Mara was a former goalkeeper for Cavan. James Crombie / INPHO James Crombie / INPHO / INPHO

Alan O’Mara – ‘The Best Is Yet To Come’

Former Cavan goalkeeper Alan O’Mara first came to prominence a few years ago through his superbly written pieces in the Sunday Independent in which he wrote about his battle with depression.

In this book, O’Mara thoroughly explores his mental health and how GAA rescued him from the darkness overthrowing his life.

Cathal McCarron Cathal McCarron in action for Tyrone. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Cathal McCarron – ‘Out Of Control’ 

This autobiography has triggered the most amount of reaction since reaching the shelves. The recovering gambling addict chronicles his experience with addiction and the trail of destruction it left in his own life as well as the lives of others. The Christy O’Connor ghost-written account of McCarron’s story has been controversially received by many, but let your GAA friend have a read to judge for themselves.

Season Tickets

A Mayo fan in search of a ticket Morgan Treacy / INPHO Morgan Treacy / INPHO / INPHO

If the person you’re buying for is the type to follow their county to every corner of the country, then why not help accommodate their devotion with a season ticket?

The ticket admits that person to all of your county’s Allianz Leagues matches and GAA Senior Championship matches – the Pay & Play policy applies after the opening Championship fixture.

Not only is the season ticket a gift that brings your friend closer to the action, the time efficiency involved in obtaining it makes life easier for you too.

Simply click on to this link, and follow the cues to pick the county and code your friend belongs to.

Gear – Boots, togs etc

Pre-season is approaching fast – if indeed, it hasn’t started already depending on what schedule your GAA fan is on. And there’s nothing more painful than trying to replace a pair of boots that are no longer usable, with socks protruding through as a result of overuse.

The togs that don’t fit round the waist because the string has disappeared are also ready for the bin.

Paul Flynn with Niall Corcoran and Paul Ryan Donall Farmer / INPHO Donall Farmer / INPHO / INPHO

Buying GAA gear can be pricey but there’s plenty of reputable bargain websites that can make it an easier and more affordable process for you.

Without meaning to champion one place over the others, Pro Direct always quotes reasonable prices if you’re looking for a starting point.

GAA Jewelry

General view o Christy Cooney's cufflinks Morgan Treacy / INPHO Morgan Treacy / INPHO / INPHO

Jewelry is always a solid shout when deciding on a Christmas present and if you can incorporate the recipient’s passion for Gaelic Games as well, then all the better. Simply log on to GAA.ie and take your pick from an assortment of items including watches, necklaces, cufflinks, bracelets, and rings.

Andy Moran, Evan Regan and Keith Higgins with Aileen Gilroy and Orla Conlon Mayo GAA have new jerseys on sale for the upcoming season. James Crombie / INPHO James Crombie / INPHO / INPHO

Football and Hurling Championship DVD

DVD The GAA store.com The GAA store.com

If they’re not the reading type and the playing days are long behind them, then the Sideline GAA Sam & Liam 2016 DVD might be just the ticket. Priced at a more than reasonable €15.34, this DVD contains over 2.5 hours of live footage from both championships as well as the two All-Ireland finals.

 Voucher

Joe Canning, Matt Healy and Armin Aganovic James Crombie / INPHO James Crombie / INPHO / INPHO

Still stumped on what to get them and don’t want to take any risks? Then don’t, play it safe and buy them a standard voucher which will ensure they get the gift that they want.

From Elvery’s to Lifestyle Sports, O’Neill’s and Champion Sports – all recognised sports stores provide vouchers so you need not burden yourself with this problem for a second longer.

The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!

‘Every county needs a game like that 2004 Munster final, something to get the blood pumping’

 

Your Voice
Readers Comments
5
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.