More than 350 U11 footballers featured in the GAAgaeilge Go Games at Croke Park on Monday afternoon.

Kerry footballer and Ambasadóir Gaeilge Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Seán O’Shea was an interested spectator at GAA headquarters. “It is huge to see so many young people here playing at Croke Park, who have the Irish language with them,” O’Shea says.

“It is such a strong part in their lives in Gaelscoils and from Gaeltacht areas. It is great to see it and it is very positive for the language going forward, to see so many young people playing at Croke Park.

“They will remember this day forever, they will remember playing for their schools or with their clubs.”

O’Shea’s passion for all matters Gaeilge was sparked in primary school. “It isn’t a Gaeltacht area, Kenmare, the interest came from school, really, through different teachers, enjoying the language, and liking the subject in school,” O’Shea reflects.

“That is where it came from for me, I kept it on in college and I’m teaching Irish and Geography. So, I’m delighted to be here.”

Learning about the language has always been part and parcel of O’Shea’s life and the Kenmare Shamrocks clubman is enjoying the ambassadorial role. “It is great, it is very enjoyable to have the Gaeilge, it is nice when you hear it being spoken in places,” he says.

“It is a great initiative by the GAA, I’m sure it is something that they will continue with in the upcoming years. For the kids to be coming to play at Croke Park, it is a huge thing for them, so it is great to be a part of that day.”