Building club connections through Gaelic football at Munich Colmcilles GAA

Beneath the Bavarian summer sky, Munich Colmcilles GAA club hosted one of the most spirited European Gaelic football tournaments of the summer, connecting teams from across central Europe for a thrilling 2025 competition.

Twelve teams and their supporters from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Italy and Croatia gathered in Munich for a day filled with fierce competition, warm camaraderie, and a celebration of Irish sport that extended far beyond the sidelines.

The tournament showcased not only the athleticism and dedication of the players, but also the unique role of sport in diplomacy.

One of the highlights of the day came when Kate Hall, representing both Munich Colmcilles GAA club and the Consulate General of Ireland in Munich, laced up her boots and took to the field as captain of the second Munich women’s team. It was not just a competition between clubs, but also between colleagues, as the Embassy of Ireland in Berlin was represented by three colleagues togging out for Berlin GAA!

Throughout the day, the sidelines were alive with cheering supporters, both with those who had travelled from far across Europe and with many locals, turning Munich into a hub of Gaelic athletic spirit and community. Spectators enjoyed not only the high standard of football on display, but also the strong sense of identity and belonging that the GAA fosters, wherever it takes root.

Consul General James C. O’Shea was on hand to throw in the ball for both the women’s and men’s finals, as well as to present prizes later on in the evening, including to the tournament’s champions – Munich Colmcilles did the double and took both titles on home soil!

Munich Colmcilles were widely praised by all clubs for their seamless organisation of the tournament and the welcoming environment they created for visiting teams. From the first whistle to the final prize, the day captured the essence of the GAA’s mission – to promote not only Gaelic games, but also a sense of identity through sport.

With a growing Irish community in Munich, the future of Gaelic football looks brighter in southern Germany now than ever. As the Munich Colmcilles GAA club prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, we look forward to watching the spirit of the GAA continue to thrive, linking our people, places and cultures through the timeless love of the game.

To keep up with Munich Colmcilles on Instagram or Facebook at @munichgaa. Or you can email them at secretary.munich.europe@gaa.ie