There are many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but have you heard about hurling? No, not that kind of hurling. We’re talking about the Irish sport.
What is hurling?
This ancient Gaelic game is the national sport of Ireland and looks a bit like field hockey played with a baseball.
Players use a wooden stick to pass and score points by shooting through the opponent’s goalpost. Players use the stick (called a hurl or hurley) to hit and balance the ball (called a sliotar).
Want to learn all the official rules? Check out the US Gaelic Athletic Association (USGAA).
Get involved
Whether you want to hurl yourself onto the field or be a spectator, the Columbia Hurling Club, with 157 members, has you covered. Follow the club’s Instagram and reach out with interest in playing. Scope out the competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map.
See action for yourself
DYK — Charleston also has a 10-year-old hurling club? Students + collegiate sports fans should also check out The Citadel Hurling Club, the first collegiate hurling club in SC.
On occasion, regional players will get together and play. If you’re looking to hurl with other people, reach out to a regional club. Bonus: Columbia, Charleston, and the Citadel will be playing in the Holy City Cup on April 22 in Charleston.
Scope out the competition (and other Gaelic sports) on the US Gaelic Athletic Association’s Southeast Division’s website.
