Gaelic Football Powerhouse, Holy Cross, Secures Victory at National Finals
The College of the Holy Cross Gaelic Football team recently made waves in the National Collegiate Gaelic Athletic Association (NCGAA) tournament, held in Denver, Colorado. This year's event was a landmark moment for the team, as they advanced to the semifinals, marking a major milestone for the club.
The journey to this achievement began with the recruitment of fresh talent. Cole Perea '28, one of the new team members, joined after being spotted at the club fair. Maxwell Patrick Bruen '25, one of the founding members, was first introduced to Gaelic football by his family in Ireland and later taught himself how to play. Emily Goodhue '28, another team member, was encouraged to join by a friend.
Gaelic Football, a sport that combines elements of soccer, rugby, and basketball, is a fast-paced, high-energy game played with a round ball. Points are scored by kicking or punching the ball into the opposing team's goal or over the crossbar for points. The game is co-ed, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all players.
The team's success is not just about athletic prowess. It also represents a cultural exchange and a richness of diversity on campus. The sport, originating from Ireland, brings a unique flavour to American collegiate athletics, providing a competitive athletic outlet distinct from mainstream American sports.
Meanwhile, a portion of the junior class has embarked on a different kind of adventure. Giulia Giannetta '25 wrote a news article about juniors going abroad for their move-in day, sharing their unique experiences of studying abroad. Caroline Kramer '26 and Abigail Clark '26, in a separate blog post, reported positive sentiments about their study abroad experience in Galway, Ireland, over a month into it.
The college's Irish connections extend beyond sports. The Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society hosted a debate on March 24, 2025, in the Levis Browsing Room in Dinand Library. John Bunke, Visiting Assistant Professor of Philosophy, and Timothy Joseph were the guest judges for the event.
As the Holy Cross Gaelic Football team continues to grow, they welcome new players, regardless of athletic background. For those interested in learning more about the history and impact of Gaelic Football at the College of the Holy Cross, further research may be required, as comprehensive online sources were not readily available. However, delving into the college’s club sports records, Irish cultural organizations on campus, or the college's archives could provide valuable insights.
The on-campus Gaelic Football club, which recently reached the semifinals of the NCGAA tournament, provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and a unique athletic experience for students. Cole Perea '28, Maxwell Patrick Bruen '25, and Emily Goodhue '28 are among those who joined the lively sport, which brilliantly blends soccer, rugby, and basketball.
While Gaelic Football has gained recognition for its athletic prowess, its roots in Ireland offer a distinct flavor to American collegiate sports. This sport, known for co-ed inclusivity, is a vibrant feature on the College of the Holy Cross campus.
Beyond Gaelic Football, other students are venturing into different experiences. Giulia Giannetta '25, Caroline Kramer '26, and Abigail Clark '26 are exploring study abroad programs in various countries, sharing their unique perspectives in news articles and blog posts.
The college's Irish connections also extend to the debating society and cultural organizations, such as the Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society, which hosted an event showcasing intellectual exchange.
For those interested in delving deeper into the history and impact of Gaelic Football at the College of the Holy Cross, research may be necessary, as comprehensive online sources are currently limited. Exploring club sports records, Irish cultural organizations on campus, or the college's archives could shed light on the rich tapestry of Irish culture on the campus.
