‘Grassroots of the GAA’ is a new documentary series that explores the people behind GAA clubs in towns and town lands in Ireland. This series travels to the most popular, and the most unique GAA clubs in the country to explore the link between the people and the pitch.

Each programme in this six part series examines a different aspect of grass roots culture in Ireland. From urban to rural, boys to men, ladies to lads and politics to pubs.

This series meets the people of Ireland that maintain an overwhelming sense of place and pride, all of which is instilled in them by their local football or hurling club. They’re part of a heritage that has lasted over a century and will continue to unite communities for decades to come. It’s about the grassroots of the game.

Producer/Director Garret Daly describes the series as a ‘wonderful snapshot of Irish life today, and the people that make up the backbone of the GAA across the country. Everyone we approached was more than willing to allow us spend some time with them and we saw first hand the pride and determination that is required to keep a club going.’

‘Grassroots of the GAA’ is narrated by Today FM’s popular sports broadcaster Paul Collins, who is delighted that one of his county clubs, Thurles Sarsfields is featured in the series. Each 30-minute programme focuses on a different club.

The programme is funded through the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland’s Sound and Vision Fund. According to Garret Daly, ‘This is a unique funding initiative. I applaud the bravery and vision of the scheme to fund projects that are culturally significant. This series will act as invaluable archive for GAA generations to come’.

The production team travelled the length and breadth of Ireland throughout the summer meeting the people at the helm of the clubs. The company behind the series lives up to its name - Mixed Bag Media. Formed in 2001, it straddles to world of radio, television and corporate, embarking on unique commissions in all fields, with all broadcasters.

The company is currently producing ‘The Big Adventure’, for RTE Radio One. This is 9 part series seeks out dreamers and adventurers to hear their stories, with presenter Manchán Magan.

Programme Schedule

Programme One – September 13th 10pm TV3

1. Dingle

A summer in Dingle, from kid’s camps to cutting grass. Life behind the scenes of the local football club on the edge of Europe.

Programme Two – September 20th 10pm TV3

2. Thurles Sarsfields

Set in the home of hurling, the club in the shadow of Semple Stadium prepares for one of the biggest events in the town - The Munster Final.

Programme Three – September 27th 10pm TV3

3. Crossmaglen Rangers

Beyond the troubles. We meet the new faces behind one of the strongest club football teams in the country, including Ryan, a player on his way to work with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Programme Four – October 4th – 10pm TV3

4. St.Vincents, Marino

In Dublins fair city, uncovering the ethos behind the club and the people that keep it going in the heart of North Dublin. Players, volunteers and committee members balance working life and club commitments.

Programme Five – October 11th – 10pm TV3

5. Tuam Stars

Stone walls and the grass is green. The club maybe steeped in tradition but it still takes hard work and dedication to get it going. This programme meets the people that paint the lines, run the lotto and keep the show on the road.

Programme Six – October 18th – 10pm TV3

6.. Cuala, Dalkey

Registration day at the club in the heart of South County Dublin. This programme focuses in on the mechanics of fielding teams. The signing up of kids and the involvement of parents.