Come join the Ratheniska Rascals on Sunday morning

PARK Ratheniska GAA Club is preparing to welcome a new generation of young players as its Nursery and Academy programmes return for the 2026 season.

The club’s popular Ratheniska Rascals nursery will officially get underway on Sunday next, 12 April at 11am, with an Open Day set to mark the occasion.

Located just outside Portlaoise, the club grounds in Ratheniska will once again come alive as children aged 4–6 begin their introduction to Gaelic games in a fun and welcoming environment.

The Open Day promises to be an enjoyable morning for the whole family. New and returning members alike will be greeted by coaches, volunteers, and players from the club’s adult teams. Activities, games and treats will be on offer for the children, while tea, coffee and refreshments will be available for parents.

The Rascals programme follows the GAA’s TURAS initiative, placing a strong emphasis on enjoyment, participation and developing fundamental movement skills. Through a games-based approach, children are encouraged to learn at their own pace while building friendships and confidence in a safe setting.

The nursery continues every Sunday at 11am throughout the summer, with new participants welcome at any stage.

Beyond the nursery, Park Ratheniska offers a structured pathway through its Academy programmes - Hurling (U/7–U/11), Sundays at 11am; Boys Football (U/7–U/11), Mondays at 6.30pm; Girls Football (U/8–U/12), Tuesdays at 6.30pm.

The club caters for players of all ages right through to adult level and currently has close to 100 qualified and vetted coaches operating under GAA and Sport Ireland safeguarding guidelines.

Park Ratheniska continues to thrive both on and off the field. The club will field multiple adult football and hurling teams in 2026, alongside a strong Senior Ladies Football side that has enjoyed considerable success in recent years.

Deeply rooted in the local community, the club’s history stretches back to the late 19th century, with its modern identity formed in 1981 following the amalgamation of Park and Ratheniska clubs. Today, its facilities — including upgraded pitches, a walking track, astro area and clubhouse — serve as a hub for both sport and community life.

Park Ratheniska is also recognised as a leader in wellbeing and sustainability. As a GAA Healthy Club (Gold Status) and Official Green Club, it has delivered a wide range of initiatives over the past year, from Couch to 5K programmes and walking groups to gear swaps, youth wellbeing talks and community events.

New families are encouraged to get involved and experience the club’s inclusive and community-driven approach first-hand.

For further information, contact: Bryan Lynch (Coaching Officer): 087 965 7218 or Sara O’Hara (Ladies Football): 086 845 7673