Catch the Gaelic game of hurling in Tampa Bay, FL

We’re breaking down the Irish sport of hurling including its rules and where you can catch a game.

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The ball is called a sliotar, pronounced “slit-er.”

Photo by Adrian via Pexels

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 Tampa Bay GAA has you covered. Scope out the competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map .

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Jessalin is based in Brooklyn, NY and holds Masters’ from the University of Colorado and The New School. She loves walking her chihuahuas in Prospect Park and hunting for the perfect brunch.
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