The History Of Hurling

Updated to cover the Clare and Wexford triumphs of 1995 and 1996, this history of the Irish sport of hurling is mainly devoted to its development since the foundation of the GAA in 1884. It also deals with issues such as the geography of hurling and the game overseas.

In 1882, a letter was published in the Irish Times, lamenting the decline of hurling. The game was now played only in a few isolated rural pockets, and according to no fixed set of rules. It would have been absurd to imagine that, within five years, an all-Ireland hurling championship would be underway, under the auspices of a powerful national organization. The Hurlers is a superbly readable account of that dramatic turn of events, of the colourful men who made it happen, and of the political intrigues and violent rows that marked the early years of the GAA. From the very start, republican and ecclesiastical interests jockeyed for control, along with a small core of enthusiasts who were just in it for the sport. In this authoritative and seriously entertaning book, Paul Rouse shows how sport, culture and politics swirled together in a heady, often chaotic mix. 'Fascinating ... a brilliantly researched book on hurling in the early years of the GAA' Martin Breheny, Irish Independent

Ireland's love affair with Gaelic Games in general, and Hurling in particular, has never dimmed. Through the lean days of hunger and emigration, through the champagne-mojito-flavoured years of the Celtic Tiger and on after it slunk away with its tail between its legs, Ireland's love for 'our games' has endured. Fact-packed but light-hearted in style, this reliable reference book and a quirky guide reveals little-known facts, classic matches and amusing anecdotes, alongside a general history of the game. This is a book that can be dipped into time and time again to reveal something new about our ancient game.

101 Things You May Not Have Known About Hurling is the definitive guide to All-Ireland Senior Hurling in Ireland. In this e-book the reader will be taken on a magical journey back in time with the formation of the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1884; the first All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final; the history of the famous Liam McCarthy Cup; a look at the man considered to be the father of the GAA, Michael Cusack; All-Ireland Senior Hurling Champions; GAA All-Star Awards; GAA Team of the Century; GAA Team of the Millennium; The American Invasion; The Michael Cusack Cup; The Railway Cup; The Lory Meagher Cup; The Irish Press Cup; The Christy Ring Cup; The Nicky Rackard Cup; All-Ireland Minor Champions; historic sides; legendary players and so much more. No matter what County you hail from this e-book will test your knowledge and that of your friends to find out just what you know about Ireland's No.2 sport.

Canada's embrace of Gaelic games has provided wonderful memories for those of the Irish-Canadian community and has created an opportunity for all to discover an exciting facet of Ireland's culture.