Seventy players sign up for Camogie Elite Skills Academy

The three-day Westmeath Camogie Elite Skills Academy drew 71 developing camogie players aged between 12 and 16 to at Clonkill GAA pitch last week.

The skills academy was entirely programmed and run by the senior camogie squad, many of whom were part of the winning all-Ireland panels in 2017 and 2019.

The four-hour days were packed with gym-based strength and conditioning classes, specialised skill workshops, pitch sessions, plus informational talks – and lots of fun in between.

Guest speakers over the three days included former Westmeath camogie players Pamela Greville and Fiona Leavy, who took part in a panel Q&A alongside GPA representative Jennie Rogers.

There was a talk from sports psychologist Paul Aherne, and from, current Westmeath co-captain, Fiona Keating, an informational talk on nutrition.

A guest-coaching session from Westmeath manager Diarmuid Cahill was also well received among the players at the academy. Diarmuid also represented the main sponsor for the academy, CJ Sheeran Timber Packaging and Pallets – the organisers said: “We are very thankful for their support and wish to express our appreciation.”

On the final day of the academy, the players received custom Westmeath Camogie sliders along with treats sponsored by 2210 Patisserie.

A spokesperson for the organisers said: “The academy has been receiving a great amount of positive feedback and hopefully it will be the beginning of something other counties and organisations can also engage in.

“Huge thanks to all involved in the organisation and running of the academy that made it the success that it was.”