Bohermeen woman helping build GAA in Essex

A Bohermeen woman is helping drive the growth of Gaelic games in England following the successful launch of St Cedd's GAA, the first GAA club established in Essex.

More than 200 people attended the club’s official launch day at St John Payne Catholic School in Chelmsford on Saturday 25 April, with children from Under-7 to Under-13 taking part in Gaelic football activities throughout the morning.Among those involved was Catherine Rajesparan, originally from Bohermeen, Navan, daughter of Gerard and Mary Doherty, whose daughters Erin and Ciara are both now playing with the club.

The launch marked a significant milestone for the growing Irish community in Essex, with families travelling from across the county to take part. Clubs from across the Hertfordshire GAA community also attended in support, including Glen Rovers of Watford and St Joseph’s GAA of Waltham Cross.

With the sun shining throughout the morning, the event reflected the growing demand for Gaelic games and Irish cultural activities among young Irish families now living outside London.

St Cedd’s GAA is affiliated with Hertfordshire GAA and will host weekly training sessions every Sunday morning from 10am at St John Payne Catholic School.

Darren Mulcahey, Chairperson of St Cedd’s GAA, said:

“Seeing so many children and families out on the field for our very first official event was a hugely proud moment for everyone involved.

“There has clearly been a real appetite for Gaelic games in Chelmsford and Essex for some time. This club is about giving children the opportunity to connect with Irish culture, make friends and be part of a community in a positive and welcoming environment.”

The launch of St Cedd’s GAA forms part of a broader wave of Irish cultural activity in Chelmsford in recent years, alongside the growth of Chelmsford Irish, Irish language initiatives and traditional music sessions across the city.