SKGAA Strategic Plan 2018-2023

2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

FOUR CODES, ONE CLUB

STRATEGIC PLAN 2018 – 2023

2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Chairperson’s Address

A chairde, This plan was put together throughout the year 2017. The club went through a long, rig- orous process following the GAA Template to put together this Strategic Plan. The purpose of this plan was to evaluate the club, how it is run, identify the club’s strengths and weaknesses and put a plan together that will develop and improve the club in all areas. Throughout the process we wanted to identify the areas where the club needs to look to improve and develop, put in measures to address them and to identify where the club is performing well and how those areas can be used as a template for the future. Above all this Plan is a roadmap for future Administrators and Committee members of the Club. The process of the Plan detailed in the following pages ascertained the view of hun- dreds of our club members and community through our open survey. These results were then put into discussion and debate among over fifty very active club volunteers at our Workshop Night. The feedback was gathered, analysed and used by the Steering Committee and Sub Committee Groups to generate the Plan contained in these pages. We are extremely proud of this plan, particularly as it presents an enormous club operating extremely well and the areas highlighted for serious attention were not unexpected. The value of going through this process is collecting the many fantastic ideas and opinions of the countless people involved in our club and it helps generate a sense of cohesion and shared vision which is fundamental to the progress of any GAA Club. We would like to thank the County Development Officer Mary Judge, Mary Forde of the GAA Development Committee and Tony O’Keefe, our Workshop Night facilitator who gave us the guidance and support we really needed to complete this process and without whom this Plan would not have been completed. I would like to sincerely thank our steering committee, sub-committees and all our club members for contributing their ideas, opinions, time and effort to the plan. We would also like to extend our gratitude to Clarinbridge GAA Club, who having just completed their plan gave us a lot of support and assistance. Finally I would like to pay a special tribute to our Club Secretary Alan Hassett, Treasurer Noel Schofield, Árus Director John Daly, Grounds Officer John Donohue and County Board Delegate Brendan McBrien who are all deserving of a special mention thanks to the countless hours they put in on behalf of the club, most of which goes completely unseen and unnoticed by others. Nár lagaigh Dia sibh.

Is mise le meas, Diarmaid Ó hAodha 2018 Chairperson and PRO of Salthill Knocknacarra GAA 2016 - 2018

1 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

A Brief History of Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club

Salthill Knocknacarra GAA club can trace its roots back as far as the early 1950s. It was around this time that Gaelic Games began to gain popularity in Galway City and the surrounding areas. Teams from Salthill competed in city- wide tournaments throughout the late 1950s and 1960s. In fact, between 1959 and 1963, Salthill teams won five consecutive U16 City/Street League football titles and the U14 team won a City League title in 1960. Naomh Ciarán (St. Kieran’s) was the name given to the football club from the Salthill area formed in the early 1950s that competed in the county football championships. St. Kieran’s would have recruited some of its players from the old Industrial School in the area. St. Kieran’s won the U16 county football championship in 1962 and again in 1963, the very same day they claimed the county minor football champi- The 1980s can be considered a golden era for Salthill football at onship. Although, some of those players would have gone on to play all levels. The club claimed four All Ireland titles: U13 Community adult football for senior teams like Fr. Griffins, a Galway city based Games in ’81 and ’82; U14 Féile All Ireland in ‘85; U16 mini All Ire- club that competed in the Galway Senior Football Championship. land hosted by Salthill GAA to celebrate the GAA’s centenary year Parish Leagues were organised in Salthill during the 1960s and in 1984. The adult football team won promotion to senior ranks were played in Devon Park throughout the summer months to in 1983 following victory in the Intermediate Championship. On encourage children to play Gaelic Games in the Salthill area. Many top of this, the club won four U14 titles in a row ’81-’84, two U15 will remember ‘the tree’ located in the middle of the road beside County Óg Spóirt titles in ’82 and ’83, two U16 titles in ’84 and ’86, Devon Park as the meeting place for players before or after matches. five minor football titles in ’81, ’85, ’86, ’87 and ’89 and six U21 On the 19th of October 1966, a meeting initiated by Jack Toolan was championships in ’82 plus an incredible five-in-a row between ’85 held in the Sacre Couer Hotel to formally establish a single GAA Club and ’89. Hurling began to flourish towards the end of the decade in Salthill. The club was made up of the already existing St. Kieran’s with the club competing in an U21 B championship final in the mid club and the Salthill teams who competed in the City/Street Leagues. 1980s as well as a Junior B championship final in 1989. Camogie The club retained the name Naomh Ciarán initially, before it was also grew in popularity throughout the 1980s. The club claimed its renamed CLG Bóthar na Trá in 1971. In the mid 1970s, All Ireland first title in 1983 winning the Pan Celtic U16 Camogie Tournament. winner and two-time All Star footballer with Galway, Liam Sammon, This was followed by an U15 West League title in 1984. By the late joined Salthill GAA Club and began coaching underage footballers. 1980s, the club had an Adult Camogie team who themselves won a The Parish Leagues expanded and gaelic football began to thrive in Junior League in 1986. Huge fundraising initiatives took place in the Salthill. By 1978 the adult football team had been promoted to Divi- 1980s which led to the construction and development of the club’s sion 1C of the County Football Championship following successive clubhouse and multipurpose facility, Árus Bóthar na Trá beside the promotions the two years prior. The underage coaching began to Prairie pitch which was completed in 1987. reap its own rewards. In 1977, Salthill won the County U14 football Having established themselves as a senior football team by the title as well as the Connacht Tribune Bicycles Tournament. The play- late 1980s and winning the senior league in 1989, Salthill won their ers were presented with their bicycles by GAA President Con Murphy first senior football championship title in 1990. The team went on to in Pearse Stadium. The following year the U13 footballers reached win the Connacht title in the same year and contested the All Ireland All Ireland Community Games final following county and provincial Final on St. Patrick’s Day in 1991, only to be narrowly defeated by wins. A year later in 1979, Salthill were crowned U15 All Ireland Óg Lavey of County Derry. The team would lose out the following year Spóirt Champions. The club also managed to win three consecutive in the county final to Corofin in a replay. The club maintained their U16 County Football Championships at this time as well in 1977-‘79. senior status throughout the 1990s, winning the senior league in Although not as prominent as football, hurling and camogie were 1990, 1993 and 1997. Underage success continued with two U16 introduced to the club in the 1970s. The underage hurlers won an titles in 1990 and 1996, an U14 All Ireland Féile title in 1999 and a U16 City Tournament in 1977 sponsored by Digital as well as reach- minor football title in 1991. Hurling reached great heights in 1990, ing the City League U13 final in 1978 and the U14 B championship with the club winning the Junior B title and contesting the knock- final in 1979. By the late 1970s/early 1980s, Salthill had established out stages of the championship in 1991. The hurling section of the an adult hurling team and were also competing in major underage club struggled somewhat during the mid 1990s before it was re-en- tournaments like Féile na nGael. Camogie was introduced in the late ergised towards the end of the decade and the club was fielding 1970s and began to gain popularity in the early 1980s. During the at all underage levels again by 2000. Camogie made great strides 1970s much of the Parish Leagues and training began to take place again throughout the 1990s, claiming a second Pan Celtic U16 title in in the Prairie, an undeveloped piece of land beside Pearse Stadium 1996 as well as a minor B title in 1998. City leagues were contested which, thanks to a huge fundraising effort, was cleared and treated each year with successes at U14 level in 1991 and 1997 in particular. for the purpose of playing sport on it. Players will remember togging out in an abandoned bus beside the field back in those days. The club received a new identity in the new millennium. With so many of its players coming from the vast new suburb of

2 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

A Brief History of Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club

Corofin team in 2013 and 2016. At underage football, the success has continued at an incredible rate. The club has won the past three U14 titles in-a-row 2014-’16 as well as County Féile titles in 2012 and 2015. The U16 football championship was claimed twice in 2010 and 2012. The club has won three minor titles in that period also: 2011, 2015 and 2016, with the team winning the first ever Connacht Minor Football Championship in 2015. In hurling, the club has reached new heights. In 2015, the U14 hurlers competed in Salthill Knocknacarra’s first ever County Final at A level losing out to Athenry by a point. The Junior hurlers won the Junior B League in 2012 and now compete at Junior A level. A successful amalgama- tion with the Rahoon/Newcastle Club saw Rahoon/Salthill win both Minor B and U21 B County Titles in 2013. The U15 hurlers also won a County B title in 2013. In camogie, Knocknacarra to the west of Salthill, the club was renamed CLG the club competed at its highest level also, playing in Bóthar na Trá Cnoc na Cathrach (Salthill Knocknacarra GAA). The the 2011 All Ireland A Féile championship, following County B and underage football section began to thrive once more with the club City League A success in 2010. This team also helped win an U16 C winning U14 titles in 2001, 2002 and 2008, including County Féile Camogie title in 2011. The junior camogie team won a league title titles in 2002 and 2008, U16 titles in 2001 and 2008 and a minor title in 2010 and after struggling for numbers, again fielded an adult in 2002. The club reached the pinnacle of senior club football in team in 2016. The numbers at Ladies Football are increasing all the 2006, winning the All Ireland Club Championship on St. Patrick’s Day time. League titles were won at U16 Division 2 level in 2014 and at in Croke Park. Following defeat to Killererin in the County Senior Junior Level in 2010 and 2015. In 2016, the club contested County Final in 2004, the team returned in 2005 to beat Carna Caiseal in finals in Division 2 and 3 at U12, U14 and U16 level with the U14’s the County Final and went on to win the Connacht Championship, winning the Division 3 Ladies Féile title. beating St. Brigids of Roscommon in the final. Following wins over Tír Conaill Gaels of London and Kilmacud Crokes of Dublin, the team triumphed over St. Galls in the All Ireland Final of 2006. The club also won Junior A football titles in 2001 and 2003. The hurling renaissance continued throughout the 2000s with the club winning promotion to the Junior B ranks following success in the Junior C championship in 2004. At underage level, County C titles were claimed at minor level in 2003 and U14 in 2007. Camogie reached great heights at the beginning of the decade with the adult team winning a County and Connacht Junior title in 2000. An U16 C camogie title was claimed in 2007 as well as an U15 City League title. Ladies Football was introduced at the beginning of the decade and success came rapidly with Junior League titles claimed in 2003 and 2004. By 2005, some of the Ladies underage teams were already competing at A level and the U14 Ladies won a County A title that year. In 2008, the U14 Ladies reached incredible heights winning every available trophy in the county that year. In a historic event for the club, both boys and girls U14 teams travelled to Cavan to compete in the All Ireland Féile Championship. The club has seen a continuation of progress on and off the field in the past six years. It has become the largest sports club in the whole of Connacht with a membership of over 1,700. In 2016, the club fielded a record 51 teams across all four codes. At adult football level the club now fields three teams. In 2011 the club fielded a team in the top three divisions in Galway football: Senior, Interme- diate and Junior A. This was following an incredible achievement in 2010 when the Junior B and Junior A football teams both won their respective County Championships on the same day. At senior level the club has contested three County finals in the last decade winning a memorable third title in 2012 defeating Tuam Stars in the final, but finding themselves on the losing end to an all-conquering

3 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Methodology » RESEARCH With the chairperson and secretary in their second year, they wished to develop the club further and in the best way possible. They decided that the best way to progress and to begin the process was to contact the GAA to see how they advised them to proceed in this matter. The club contacted the Galway Development Officer Mary Judge and a meeting was arranged with Mary as well as Mary Forde, a Galway native involved with the Central GAA Development Committee in Croke Park. They provided the club officers with the information they needed to begin the ‘GAA Strategic Club Plan’ and advised them with how to begin and proceed.

» WHERE WE WANT TO BE IN A BROAD SENSE? (VISION) All clubs are unique and so it is important to use the template provided but to adapt the approach to the particular club. The officers set about recruiting members to form a Steering Committee to help produce the Club Plan. The first step in developing the Plan was to outline the aims and goals of the Plan as a whole. This was done so that a shared vision amongst all areas was developed that would allow separate sections of the club and areas of examination the best possible opportunity to develop in a way that would complement each other and be in line with the whole club shared vision.

» CONSULTATION WITH OTHER CLUBS Members of the Steering Committee researched Club Plans produced by other clubs. Some of these plans were available online and others available through publication. Clarinbridge Hurling Club were in the process of developing their club plan at the beginning of last year and we were very fortunate that they were more than happy to share their expertise, ideas and methodologies with us. The study of different club plans and the GAA Club Plan template, along with the support of Mary Judge and Mary Forde provided the Steering Committee with the framework needed to map out the timescale and the procedures necessary to put the plan in place.

» SURVEY The Steering Committee then produced a survey which was made available publically online for three weeks. The survey was aimed at members, non-members, players, coaches and parents. The purpose of this survey was to ascertain the view of those both inside and outside the club on how they felt the club was run, what areas there were in which they excelled, what areas they needed to improve on and to get the perspective of the club as a whole from those who knew it best (members, players, coaches), those who had limited knowledge (parents, members) and those who had no knowledge of the club (non-members and members of the wider community). Over 250 people completed the survey and it generated some very interesting results. On the whole, the survey generated a very positive response towards the club’s running with relation to communication, coaching structure and the application of its primary goals of promoting Irish culture, promotion of GAA games and values, serving the local community, the coaching and fielding of teams and the implementation of GAA initiatives and structures. The key areas highlighted in the survey which the respondents thought were in need of addressing were: • The facilities provided by the club. • The level of drop off by players. • The financial potential and organisation of the club. • The organisation and structure of the club’s administration. • Coaching Development.

4 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Methodology » ANALYSING SURVEY The survey was analysed as a whole generating key trends from the respondents. The survey was analysed from the point of view of specific respondents: players, coaches, parents and non members. A list of recommendations were put together to be used by Focus Groups in their planning sessions to complement the work from the Planning Workshop Evening.

» WORKSHOP NIGHT The cornerstone of the Club Planning Process is the organisation of a Planning Workshop night in conjunction with GAA facilitators. This night was facilitated in principle by Tony O’ Keefe, a Kerry Native who acts as a facilitator for such events. The club were extremely fortunate to be able to have Tony on this night as he is one of the most experienced facilitators around and had been involved with the club in the past. Around 50 members, most of whom were coaches and parents came along on the night, discussed Activity Topics and came up with conclusions and recommendations which were col- lected and recorded by the club officers. From this night 6 focus groups were generated to develop an action plan for the 6 Activity areas of the Club Plan. This was a hugely interesting, engaging and beneficial evening and helped to solidify a shared vision and generate a consensus for the how the club should be taken forward.

» ANALYSING FEEDBACK The feedback was gathered, sorted and arranged to be distributed to Focus Group leaders who had agreed to form the Steering Committee along with the club officers. A point of interest for one section (e.g. Facilities) which may have been of interest to another group (e.g. Administration) was communicated to help them with their work. Each group was also provided with a breakdown of the survey results to help them.

» FOCUS GROUPS Focus Groups were led by 6 members of the Steer- ing Committee, outside of the club officers. Meet- ings were held all during the summer to analyse the feedback and recommendations from the Planning Workshop and survey and generate a list of recommendations and proposals for that particular area. The focus groups were made up of those from the planning night who volunteered to help out in a particular area.

» STEERING COMMITTEE When the recommendations were finalised, the Steering Committee reconvened formally to go through each set of recommendations. The purpose of this was to see did the recommendations complement each other effectively and was there contradiction. Also the timeframe for ideas and those responsible for ideas was discussed and debated. Similarly areas where co-operation and overlapping could have been organised were discussed. All recommendations were then edited and the Steering Committee returned for a quick meeting to go over amendments and make sure everything was in order for presentation to the Executive Committee.

• Bringing it to the Executive Committee for approval. • Sending Draft away for feedback. • Finalising Draft and approval by the Executive Committee.

5 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Mission, Vision, Values The GAA’s values are the heart and soul of our Association. In every Club around the world they are what binds us, what makes us unique and what attracts more and more players, members, volunteers and supporters. Mission “The GAA is a community based volunteer organisation promoting Gaelic games, culture and lifelong participation.” The GAA is a volunteer organisation. We develop and promote Gaelic games at the core of Irish identity and culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that our family of games, and the values we live, enrich the lives of our members, families and the communities we serve. We are committed to active lifelong participation for all and to providing the best facilities. We reach out to and include all members of our society. We promote individual development and well-being and strive to enable all our members achieve their full potential in their chosen roles. Vision Our vision is that everybody has the opportunity to be welcomed to take part in our games and culture, to participate fully, to grow and develop and to be inspired to keep a lifelong engagement with our Association.

Values

Community Identity Respect • Community is at the heart of our Association. • We respect each other on and off the Everything we do helps to enrich the commu- playing fields. nities we serve. • We operate with integrity at all levels. • We foster a clear sense of identity and place. • We listen and respect the views of all.

Amateur Status Player Welfare • We are a volunteer led organisation. • We provide the best playing experience for • All our members play and engage in our all our players. games as amateurs. • We structure our games to allow players of all • We provide a games programme at all levels to abilities reach their potential. meet the needs of all our players. Teamwork Inclusiveness • Effective teamwork on and off the field is the cor- • We welcome everybody to be part of nerstone of our Association. our Association. • Ní neart go cur le chéile (There is no strength • We are anti sectarian. without working together). • We are anti racist.

6 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Background to the Club

Ainm/Name: C.L.G. Bóthar na Trá Cnoc na Cath- rach. Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club. Bunaithe/Founded: 1966 Sean Ainmneacha/Former Names: Naomh Ciarán, C.L.G. Bóthar na Trá. St. Kier- ans, Salthill GAA. Dathanna/Colours: Gorm, Dubhgorm agus Ómra. Sky Blue, Navy and Amber Codes/Spóirt: Peil, Iomáint, Camógaíocht, Peil na mBan/ Gaelic Football, Hurling, Camogie, Ladies Football. Members: 1,800 (Approx) (800 Adults and 1,000 Juvenile) Paróiste/Parishes: Bóthar na Trá agus Cnoc na Cathrach. Salthill and Knocknacarra. (Popula- tion: Approx: 20,000: 16,000 in Knocknacarra, 4,000 in Salthill) Stair/History: The St. Kieran’s Club competed in the Galway Club Football Championship since the early 1950’s. During the 1960’s, locals in Salthill developed the Parish Leagues to promote Gaelic Football in Salthill and the surrounding areas. There were also Salthill teams taking part in City Wide leagues. A decision was taken in 1966 to formally create a GAA Club which would incorporate all teams. The club maintained the St. Kieran’s name initially before being renamed Salthill GAA in the early 1970’s. Hurling had also been played in the area from the mid 1960’s and continued following the foundation of the club but was always regarded as the secondary sport with numbers lower and competing at a lower level. Camogie was founded in the late 1970’s and has been an ever present in the club since. Camogie were able to draw from players outside of the parish being one of the only camogie clubs in the west of the city and county. Hurling has gone through ups and downs and disappeared almost entirely in the mid 1990’s, only to be resurrected towards the end of the decade. It has since gone on to develop in greater strength than ever before. Ladies Football was introduced in the early 2000’s and has experienced highs and lows both in terms of success and numbers playing. The club was renamed in 2001 to include ‘Knocknacarra’ with many of the players coming from the new urban area to the west of Salthill. The new parish had always been a part of the club with one of the original Parish League teams coming from Knocknacarra and the Community Games teams always being made up of the two parishes of Salthill and Knocknacarra, with U10s in Knocknacarra beginning their training in McGraths Field, the juvenile pitch in Knocknacarra and the U10s in Salthill beginning in the Prairie. The teams would then join together at U12 for competitive club championships. The club would first have played their matches in the South Park area known as the Swamp. The Parish Leagues took place in the heart of Salthill in Devon Park. Eventually the area on Dr. Mannix Road known as the Prairie was cleared and this is still now the home pitch of SKGAA. In the mid-1980’s a huge fundraising effort saw the development of Árus Bóthar na Trá, a clubhouse and multipurpose facility beside the Prairie. The club originally wore a yellow amber colour with blue trimmings. This was then switched to the reverse with blue the predominant colour and amber trimmings. The sky blue and navy were incorporated over time. In the early 2000s, Galway City Council developed addition sports facilities in Cappagh Park, off the Cappagh Road and ever since SKGAA have paid a license each year to use the adult pitch, the juvenile pitch located there and the juvenile pitch in McGrath’s field. Number of Active Coaches: Over 120 Number of Executive Positions (Filled): 14 (13) Number of Voluntary Positions (Filled): 65 (60) Number of Volunteers holding 2 or more roles: (15) Áiseanna/Facilities: Pitch: The Prairie Paid License (City Council): Cappagh Park (1 adult and 1 juvenile pitch) /McGraths Field (1 juvenile pitch) Rental: St. Enda’s College and St. Mary’s College (Subject to Yearly Agreement) Nightime/Winter Facilities: 1 Lit Sand Area (90m x 18m), One Lit Wallball Area (40m x 20m), One Large Hall, One Fully Equipped Gym, One Handball Court. Árus Bóthar na Trá: Other Facilities at the clubhouse include: Meeting Rooms/ Dance Hall, Kitchen, Dressing Rooms (3), Gear Room.

7 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Background to the Club

Other Assets: 14 Acres of land purchased in 2014 in Mincloon area. Le Tabhair Faoi Deara/Of Note: In 2018 SKGAA is fielding more teams than ever before with 55 teams reg- istered. This is likely to increase in the near future with the expected expansion of Ladies Football in particular. The club has also seen its maximum membership in history with the membership reaching over 1,800 for the first time in 2017. This is likely to continue to increase over the coming years with the projected development, expansion and improvement in hurling, camogie and ladies football but is not likely to increase drastically. Housing development which boomed in Knocknacarra since the turn of the millennium has slowed considerably in the last few years. Camogie appears to be in its healthiest ever state in terms of numbers and competition. Hurling and Ladies Football also appear to be stronger than ever before. The club has re-established itself as one of the leading juvenile football clubs with huge success in competition in recent years. This progression is continuing to minor level with a large increase in the number of county players at minor level in recent years of major note and of course county and provincial success. The club continues to field three adult football teams and has contested 3 of the last 6 county senior finals, winning a third ever title in 2012. The drop off of players post minor remains a large concern. By the late 1980’s the club was at the forefront of GAA in Galway. The club was winning numerous underage football titles each year and had reached senior level. Camogie and hurling were played at most ages. The club had developed modern facilities in the Árus and a bar which served as a centre of the club and the community. However big changes in the area was just around the corner. The mid-1990’s saw the population of Galway City begin to grow rapidly. This led to the development of Knocknacarra into a huge residential suburban area which increased the catchment population of the club by around 300%. Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club is now the largest GAA Club in Connacht providing all 4 codes of GAA field sports to the local area. It is somewhat unique in that all four codes are covered under one umbrella of the single club which is rare. With the increase in numbers playing, the club is struggling hugely to accommodate all teams and playing facilities are stretched too thin. The club cannot currently provide the best in terms of playing and training facilities to its members and the cost of maintaining and renting additional facilities have become a huge burden on the club This strategic plan was undertaken in 2017 with a view to improving our club in all areas and how it is run.

8 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 1: Coaching and Games Development

(i) Coaching and Games Development at Juvenile Level

In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That the young players of Salthill Knocknacarra are receiving the highest level of coaching possible from their coaches in all codes.

2. That there is a culture of continued learning, improvement and evaluation among all coaches.

3. That all our coaches feel valued and supported by the club and have access to the support materials for both coaching and GAA activities and activities outside of GAA.

4. That the coaches share the vision of the whole club and communicate this through their coaching and their actions.

5. That the coaches understand and appreciate the values, vision and goals of both the club and the GAA and strive to maintain, develop and improve these through their own actions and best practise.

6. That we have developed strong links with all the schools in the local area and are complementing one another with the coaching and education of our players.

9 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 1: Coaching and Games Development

(i) Coaching and Games Development at Juvenile Level

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Go-Games Model in place Go Games model is implemented across 2018 Code Directors and for all U12 players. all codes for U12s and communicated to Coaching Officer parents and coaches. Common Values Within each code, identify desired 2018 Club Executive and common style of play, where Coaching Officer appropriate and emphasise club values to all coaches and parents. Develop nursery Develop appropriate nursery 2019 Code directors and programme across all codes programme in each code. coaching officer.

Consider establishing In each code, explore the potential of 2019 Code directors and super-touch games super-touch programmes for specific coaching officer. programme for teenage age groups to coincide with lulls in groups their competitive season. Encourage new parents to Develop internal coaching modules. 2018 Coaching Officer get involved and Coaching Sub-Committee Create Dual Player Create a template for dual players to 2019 Coaching Officer Template accomodate them to participate in and and Coaching prosper in both sports. Sub-Committee

(ii) Coaching and Games Development at Adult Level In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That all our club teams are competitive and con- sistently performing at a high level – a product of quality coaching standards and games development policies and structures within the club.

2. That we are successfully managing the transi- tion of our young players to adult games and have embedded a strong culture of continuous improvement amongst both players and coaching teams.

3. That we continuously strive for excellence in nurturing talent and developing the skills of our young players through the promotion of Gaelic Games in a safe and enjoyable environment.

4. That we have forged closer links with our community through living the values of the GAA and actively participating in local community initiatives.

5. That we know that our players and members are the lifeblood of the club and we implement best practice in promoting the health and well being of these members.

10 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 1: Coaching and Games Development

(ii) Coaching and Games Development at Adult Level

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Establish an Adult Games Comprised of officers from each code to 2019 Club executive Advisory Committee facilitate exploring synergies and areas of common interest in allowing players to maximise their potential. Appoint Coaching Officers To recruit members from each sub- 2018 Club Executive for each sub-committee committee to work with club coaching Committee and officer to create a group who oversee Coaching Officer coaching in the club. Develop coaching & Coaching and development plans for 2018-19 Coaching Officer development plan each code will be developed by the coaching officer and sub-committees Publish a Coaching Manual To compile all the information sent out 2019 Coaching Officer and to coaches on a yearly basis and the Club Chairperson compile it into a single document which could be given to coaches when they begin with the club. Invite a guest coach to the To help players and coaches benefit 2018 Coaching Officer club twice a year from such expertise and embed a culture of continuous improvement. Appoint Strength & Create role of S&C officer to be 2019 Adult Games Conditioning Officer included on the Adult Games Advisory Advisory Committee Committee to oversee S&C training / Club Committee in the club and ensure best practice is followed across all codes. Train & upskill all coaches where appropriate. Develop and maintain To have a record of player attendance 2018 S&C Officer / Adult a database on all adult and performance based on Games Advisory players standardized testing and tracking Committee methods. To be able to list injuries, treatments received etc on a player by player basis. Encourage all club coaches To ensure that our coaches are trained 2018 Adult Games to receive GAA Coach to the best possible standards. Advisory Committee Education and have access to coaching resources (www.gaa.ie) Develop player retention Comprised of officers from each code to 2019 Club executive programme for key drop facilitate exploring synergies and areas off profiles of common interest in allowing players to maximise their potential.

11 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 1: Coaching and Games Development

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Liaise with local 3rd Level To provide advice and support for our 2018 Adult Games institutions to remain club coaches and team coaches. To Advisory Committee up to date with any ensure our club has access to specialist / Club Executive medical or technological advice and facilities. improvements in training and playing research Develop player feedback To create a process for all codes that 2018 Adult Games survey will assist the club in providing the best Advisory Committee possible player experience in Salthill / Club Executive Knocknacarra. Develop coaching For coaches from all codes within the 2019 Coaching Officer and education clinic calendar club to attend annually. Club Chairperson

Update database of Create a framework for each code to 2019 Coaching Officer coaching qualifications target to have a minimum of one level within the club one coach and all other team mentors should have a minimum foundation award for all club teams. Encourage Adult Players To help our young players to enjoy 2018 Adult Games to support the coaching of games in a fun and safe environment Advisory Committee our underage players and to develop links between the underage players and the adult players whilst also highlighting to the adult players their wider value to the club. Health & Wellbeing

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Appoint a Club Health, To improve the health and well being 2018 Club Executive Safety and Welfare Officer of all members and players.

Develop a Club Welfare To improve the health and well being 2019 Health, Safety and Policy for our players of all club players. Policy to include Welfare Officer guidance on medical screening, substance and alcohol abuse, gambling etc. Develop Player Health, To improve player welfare of our 2019 Health, Safety and Fitness and Nutrition Guide players. Welfare Officer / S&C for all players Officer Encourage adult players To improve the health and well being 2018 Health, Safety and to undertake medical of all adult players. Welfare Officer screening Provide and maintain a To ensure the welfare of our players, 2018 Club Executive Club Defibrillator members and supporters.

12 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 2: Club Structures and Administration

In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That all our members are able to recognise and understand how the club is run and administered. That the four individual codes are run independently with all sections contributing to the club’s Exec- utive Committee.

2. That the Club’s Executive Committee will have developed a shared vision amongst all its members that prioritises the promotion of Irish Culture, participation in sports, health and wellbeing and high standards of practise across all areas.

3. That the Club’s Executive Committee will always endeavour to promote all four codes equally and that all codes contribute equally to the fair running of the club.

4. That there are enough volunteers so that all areas of need are covered and that those who volunteer can focus primarily in the area of interest to them and where their expertise are best suited.

5. That the Club’s Executive Committee are pro-active and act strategically, endeavouring to constantly evaluate and improve all areas, think strategically, lead by example and plan for the long term as well as the short term.

13 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 2: Club Structures and Administration

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Appoint Coaching Officer To create the role of coaching officer 2018 Club Executive to be included on the Executive Committee to oversee coaching officers in the subcommittees and ensure the correct information is available to all coaches. Develop Fundraising and To recruit 3-4 people outside of club 2019 Club Treasurer and Finance Committee executive and code sub-committees Executive Committee to assist the treasurer in planning and organising the finances and the fundraising initiatives of the club. Publish a Coaching Manual To compile all the information sent out 2019 Coaching Officer and to coaches on a yearly basis and the Club Chairperson compile it into a single document which could be given to coaches when they begin with the club. Health and Wellbeing Recruit and train up a Health and 2018 Club Executive Officer Wellbeing Officer who could further Committee promote the GAA Health and Wellbeing initiatives in the club. Parents Night Organise a Parents Information Evening 2018 Club Officers where parents could come along and get more knowledge of the club and see if they would like to get involved. GAA Volunteer Kit Research and study the GAA volunteer 2018 Grounds and Facility kit to assess what could be used to help Manager and Club in recruiting more volunteers. Executive Data Protection Review Data Protection guidelines 2018 Club Secretary and provided for clubs and distribute to all Vice Secretary secretaries of sub-committees who in turn can communicate to all sections. Officer Training Recruit potential officers for the future 2018 Club Officers and encourage them to attend the training courses provided by the GAA to be as best prepared as possible. Child Health and Safety Review Child Health and Safety 2018 Child Welfare Officer Statement Statement and amend if necessary. and Child Welfare Liaison Group.

14 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 2: Club Structures and Administration

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Appoint Adult Football Recruit individuals to assist Adult 2018 Club Officers and Committee Football Director with day to day and Adult Football long term administration and planning Director of Adult Football in the club. Adoption of GAA Code of Club Executive to Review GAA Code Of 2018 Club Executive Best Practise and Code of Best Practise and Code of Behaviour Committee Behaviour and Adopt as Club Manual for administration of club and games. Standardise Club To standardise club sub committees and 2018 Club Chairperson. Sub-Committees to clearly describe and define all roles involved in each committee. Develop Club Values Develop values in line which GAA 2018 Club Executive with values that best suit the emphasis and entire club needs of our club.

15 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 3: Finance and Fundraising

In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That the club is self sufficient and generating additional income from its facilities and fundraising activities.

2. That we are in a healthy financial position to able to update, develop and maintain more modern facilities to accommodate all of our teams and members.

3. That the workload on the treasurer is manageable and can be easily passed on to the next treasurer.

4. That we budget each year for all codes and teams, and plan all fundraising methodically each year to maximise effectiveness and minimise over reliance on sponsors.

5. That we are operating a lotto as good as any other club in the country, maximising the potential in our area for promotion and selling of lotto.

16 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 3: Finance and Fundraising

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Develop awareness of To ensure up to date information is 2018 Treasurer, Vice electronic accounting available to the club executive and Treasurer and Aras System provide for accurate budgeting and Manager analysis of income and expenditure. Ongoing recording of income and expenditure to provide a monthly analysis of the club’s financial position including bank balances, creditors and debtors analysis. To operate a dedicated To ensure that the income and 2018 Club Executive bank account for each code expenditure of each section of the and specifically within the club and provide club is recorded and reported through the directors of for financial independence the annual accounts while offering each section i.e. and transparency independence to each section to Adult football, manage their financial affairs. adult hurling, juvenile football, To provide a structure that juvenile hurling. demonstrates the financial capacity of Ladies football and the entire club. camogie. Seek and ensure positive To maximise the income potential from 2018 Club Officers relationships with a main club sponsors. club sponsor and a series Seek sponsors for the various sections of local sponsors of the club i.e. adult football, adult hurling, juvenile football, juvenile hurling, ladies football and camogie. Appoint a Fundraising and To coordinate the overall financing 2019 Club Treasurer and Finance Committee of the club, including the various the directors (or sections such as senior football, juvenile their appointees) of football, hurling, camogie and ladies the various section football. / To ensure that sufficient i.e. adult football, resources are available to support the juvenile football, key sections of club activity. / To ensure adult hurling, the club develops and implements juvenile hurling, an overall fundraising and financing camogie and ladies strategy. / To deliver at least one major football fundraising initiative each year. Chairperson and Secretary

17 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 3: Finance and Fundraising

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility To improve the fundraising To develop and implement an efficient 2018 Lotto administrator, effectiveness of the Lotto and effective plan to maximise the fundraising & finance monthly return from the club lotto. committee and the Aras manager Develop annual budgets To ensure the income and expenditure 2018 Treasurer and section for the various sections are regularly monitored and meet the directors of the club and ensure cash flow needs of the club. quarterly reporting To prepare a Capital To demonstrate the capacity of the club 2018 Facilities Projects Budget to finance major capital projects as they development arise. committee and Aras manager Develop a local business To identify businesses and their current 2019 Club Secretary, Vice network support group relationship with the club. Secretary, Treasurer and Vice Treasurer To develop closer links with local businesses. To ensure a coordinated approach to sponsorship, advertising, fundraising and philanthropy with club business partners. To develop schemes of mutual benefit to the club and the business network members. To promote and enhance the club brand across the business community. Identify Funding Sources To provide funding for ongoing 2018 Facilities and make funding enhancement of club facilities and Development applications capital projects. Committee and Aras Manager Review club membership To improve the administration of the 2018 Club Secretary and fee structure and develop annual membership fees. Treasurer proposals to streamline the Ensure coordination and cohesion of membership subscription administrative records and financial process records.

18 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 3: Finance and Fundraising

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Evaluate the outgoings/ To ensure effective and efficient use of 2018 Aras director, Pitch overheads for the Árus and club resources. Director, Aras the Prairie Manager and Club Develop value for money maintenance Officers contracts. Develop long term plans for the ongoing maintenance of the clubs physical infrastructure. Prepare a calendar of To ensure coordination of fundraising 2019 Fundraising and fundraising events activity across all sections of the club finance committee and to maximise the potential of each fundraising activity. To identify partner To identify possible employee support 2018 Árus Manager, organisations to develop schemes to ensure that adequate Secretary and employee support schemes resources are available to deliver Treasurer (CE Schemes, TUS etc) to maximum output from the Aras and provide maintenance and associated facilities. administrative supports To employ an administrator to support to the manager and club the Árus Manager and club secretary executive with club administration and financial data entry. To consolidate the various To continue to record all sources of 2018 Árus Manager / finance functions within income through issuing of receipts Administrator, the club recording income on electronic Vice Treasurer, accounts system. Treasurer Reconciling of receipted income with regular Lodgements (Cashbook). Reconciling bank statements with cashbook entries and providing financial oversight. Club assistant treasures to oversee the income and expenditure of their respective sections. Provide quarterly income and expenditure reports across all sections of the club.

19 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 4: Facilities and Development

In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That we are able to provide modern up to date facilities to meet the training needs of all of our teams.

2. That we have improved and updated the current facility at the Árus to modernise them as much as possible and make use of all the space.

3. That we have a large night-time/winter training facility that will allow all our teams to train safely, train together and train to the highest standard possible.

4. That we have a situation where teams and codes of different levels and ages can train together or beside each other to help develop a sense of community and identity among club members and to help develop friendships and links across codes and levels.

5. That we have a structured financial and physical plan and template for the maintenance of all our facilities to ensure longevity and protect against facilities falling into poor condition leading to an increase in health and safety risks and costs in repair and replacements.

20 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 4: Facilities and Development

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility Review of SKGAA facilities Club Executive to appoint a member 2018 Club Officers to lead a small group of key people to review existing facilities and explore others. Establish current facility Review to be carried out on how 2018 Resource Committee usage. current facilities are used throughout the year based on numbers of teams, matches and training sessions. Evaluate Training Facility Evaluate the training facility needs of 2018 Resource Committee all current and future teams for the near and distant future. Contact local Schools With established connections with 2018 Resource Committee local schools and shared facilities, is it possible to expand or improve this arrangement for mutual benefit? Meet with Major School Make Contact with local Principles, 2018 Chairperson and Stakeholders Boards of Management, Universities, Resource Committee Local Authorities and the Diocesan Administrators to explore additional options. Review Status of Land Investigate the possibilities around the 2018 Resource Committee Purchased by Club land owned by the club in the Mincloon area. Meet key stakeholders. Make contact with local sports 2018 Chairperson and clubs, neighbours and stakeholders Resource Committee surrounding all facilities used and owned by the club. Meet all city councillors Liaise with local politicians around the 2018 Resource Committee needs of the club.

Stakeholders Explore opportunities with other 2018 Resource Committee non GAA sporting bodies and local community groups around facility usage and potential for sharing. Create Maintenance Plan Create club maintenance plan for all 2019 Árus Manager, Árus club facilities with projected costs, Director Ground recommended improvements and Officer and Club monthly/yearly actions which need to Executive. be carried out.

21 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 5: Communications, PR and Communication

In 5 Years we want to be able to say:

1. That the club is visible an accessible to everybody in our community.

2. That the club is recognised both locally and nationally as a four code club.

3. That our members and anyone interested can easily obtain information of the goings-on in the club through various forms of media.

4. That the club is at the centre and heart of the community both literally and figuratively speaking and that it exudes a welcome attitude towards all members of the local community regardless of their background, beliefs or interests.

22 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Activity 5: Communications, PR and Communication

Action Outcome Sought Timescale Responsibility

Improve Club website To have an up to date website that is 2019 PRO Committee informative and well presented.

Club Facebook Page To help improve communication 2018 PRO Committee with our members. Daily updates on matches, trainings, events.

Weekly Club notes in the More emphasis on club notes in more 2018 PRO Committee local newspaper papers/media.

Publish Club Yearbook Use weekly newsletter as base for an 2018 PRO Committee annual at Christmas.

Collect email address and To allow us to communicate directly 2018 Secretary & PRO phone number for each with all Club members. Committee Club member

Club to enter Scór To promote Irish music and dance, to 2019 Oifigeach Gaeilge competition and promote attract new people to the Club and to and Club Executive use of Irish language increase the use of our native language. Committee

Set up connections with TY Aim to explore options to have TG4 2019 Oifigeach Gaeilge school students to promote or other TV stations support projects and Club Executive club through Irish set up by School students to provide Committee weekly updates in the Irish Language.

Erect electronic signage on To update members and non-members 2019 Club Executive, PRO front upstairs window on daily basis. This would also display Committee training tips and match pictures.

23 2018 Salthill Knocknacarra

Implementation and Review Mechanism for the Plan

This Plan is a living document. It will be reviewed, assessed and adapted to ensure it facilitates the Club in reaching its potential over the next 5 years. The Club Executive Committee will put in place a Plan Implementation Sub-Committee, made up of the Steering Committee and any members future executive Committees wish. This subcommittee will meet on a quarterly basis and assess the progress of the plan against its stated objectives and will report directly to the Club Executive Committee. This team will decide on the most appropriate method to carry out a comprehensive annual review of the Plan. This will involve the assessment of the current initiatives, their appropriateness for the needs of the Club and the identification of additional initiatives to assist in the completion of achieving the goals and objectives. If required, the Plan will be modified and adapted as required. The Committee will also be responsible for com- municating the modified Plan to all Club members.

Design & Print by