Role Purpose
The Games Development Officer for GAA Handball will lead the planning, coordination and delivery of games development initiatives across the region to grow participation, improve player retention and support high-quality Handball programmes at club, school and community level. Working closely with national, provincial and county stakeholders, the role will support clubs and counties to strengthen development pathways, coaching standards, governance and inclusion, while contributing to national initiatives and the long-term growth of GAA Handball.
Key Responsibilities Of The Role
* Lead the production of an annual Games Development Plan for the region and counties within the region, which will outline the objectives and priorities for the development of Handball in conjunction with local stakeholders and the National GAA Handball Coaching and Games Committee.
* Support player growth and retention by coordinating a programme of games appropriate to the age and ability of the various playing groups at Child/Primary, Youth/Secondary and Adult/Third Level.
* Coordinate the delivery of a programme of education programmes appropriate to the needs of Coaches, Teachers, Administrators and Referees to fulfil their various functions in a Games Development context to include the management and coordination of a team of Tutors.
* Oversee the delivery of all development programmes working closely with Games Development structures at National, Provincial and County Levels to foster growth in clubs, primar schools, post-primary schools and third-level settings e.g. Cl Camps, etc.
* Support Handball Clubs, counties and provinces (new and existing) in the areas of governance, club growth and development strategy and increasing membership.
* Identify areas of potential growth and develop strategies to increase engagement in Handball.
* Coordinate and deliver opportunities for clubs/players to engage in inclusion, diversity and multicultural space through provision of social and recreational games for youths and adults.
* Assist with the organisation, delivery and promotion of national GAA Handball competitions.
* Assist Clubs and County Committees to identify available sources of funding and help with the application process, to identify and submit funding applications within the region to secure additional funding for programme costs.
* Maintain keys lines of communication with Clubs, Schools and relevant Community Groups, in particular County Boards, Cumman na mBunscol and County Post-Primary Committee, to ensure the effective promotion of Gaelic Games through Club, School and Community links.
* Under the direction of the Chairperson of the Coaching and Games Committee, and in conjunction with the designated resource in Coaching and Games at Croke Park, establish and maintain effective partnerships with key local stakeholders, partners, other agencies and sponsors, i.e., Local Sports Partnerships, County Council, etc. to ensure that the GAA solicit the maximum support and funding available in promoting and and growing the Association at local level.
* Coordinate an annual audit of clubs and schools in relation to player development, coaching standards, facilities and resources and work with the county committees in the development of new units across these areas.
* Support the delivery of national initiatives like Club Forum, Youth Expo, etc. within the region.
* Assist County Committee, Clubs and Members within the region with membership queries, registration through the Foireann system and with safeguarding and vetting matters.
* Be responsible where necessary for fulfilling a lead national function e.g., Coach Development of behalf of GAA Handball.
* Be responsible for reporting on GAA Handball games development activity on a monthly basis.
* The position holder will also undertake any other such projects or responsibilities as may reasonable be delegated to them by their manager.
Essential Criteria
* A relevant third-level qualification (NFQ Level 7 or above) in a sports-related discipline or equivalent experience.
* A minimum of 3 years experience of the development and delivery of programmes in a sporting organisation.
* A deep knowledge of games development issues.
* Strong planning and organisational skills.
* Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships with a variety of diverse stakeholders at local and national levels.
* An interest in GAA Handball and a knowledge of the structures and operations of a sporting organisation.
* Ability to work as a part of a team but also the initiative to work independently.
Other Requirements
* Please note that the role will require work and attendance at evening and weekend meetings/activities in addition to normal day to day activities, when required and in line with business needs
Candidates interested in the above role should apply with an up to date cover letter and Curriculum Vitae to this job post
on or before 3pm on Friday the 30th of January 2026.
The GAA is an equal opportunities employer