Cumann Lúthchleas Gael is Ireland’s leading sporting and cultural organisation with membership approaching one million people and in excess of 500,000 playing participants at all levels. Inspired by its amateur status and supported by the voluntary efforts of all its members, the GAA devotes its entire resources to the development of Gaelic Games and Culture nationally and in local communities GAA Handball are responsible for the development and preservation of the national game of Handball, which is played worldwide.
The Role
GAA Handball are now looking to recruit one Regional Development Officers who will be responsible for the implementation of GAA Handball Games Development Policy and Strategy within the following region, by developing and delivering a comprehensive Games Development Plan on an annual basis with the assistance of the National Games Development Committee:
Region: Dublin, Kildare, Offaly, Westmeath, Meath, Louth, Longford, Armagh, Down & Antrim.
The successful candidates will be expected to work consistently within their region and be a positive presence, helping to establish and build upon relationships with key stakeholders in the area. The role
holders will work closely with GAA Games Development, Clubs, County Committees, members, and other key stakeholders within their region to ensure strategic deliverance.
Key Responsibilities include:
• Lead the production of an Annual Games Development Plan for the region and counties within the region, which will outline in detail the quantifiable objectives and priorities for the development of Handball, in conjunction with local stakeholders and the National GAA Handball Coaching and Games Committee.
• Support player growth and retention by coordinating a programme of games appropriate to the age and ability of the various playing groups a Child/Primary, Youth/Secondary and Adult/Third Level.
• Lead the development of a sustainable sports system by managing the identification, recruitment, and training of key personnel within Clubs, Schools, and Counties to effectively develop Handball in the community.
• Coordinate the delivery of a programme of education programmes appropriate to the needs of Coaches, Teachers, Administrators and Referees to fulfil their various functions in a Games Development context to include the management and coordination of a team of Tutors.
• Overseeing the delivery of all development programmes working closely with games development structures at provincial and county level to foster growth in clubs, primary schools, post-primary schools and third level settings e.g., Cúl Camps etc.
• Support Handball clubs (new and existing) in the areas of governance, club growth and development strategy and increasing membership.
• To identify areas of potential growth and develop strategies to increase engagement in Handball.
• Coordinate and deliver opportunities for clubs/players to engage in inclusion, diversity, and multicultural space through provision of social and recreational games for youths and adults.
• To assist with the organisation, delivery, and promotion of national GAA Handball competitions.
• To assist Clubs and County Committees to identify available sources of funding and help with the application process. To identify and submit funding applications within the region to secure additional funding for program costs.
• Evaluate the outcomes, effectiveness, and efficiency of the Annual Games Development Plan through use of the GAA Games Development Information Management System (AMS) and qualitative reviews and propose change as necessary.
• Maintain key lines of communication with Clubs, Schools, and relevant Community groups, in particular Cosite na nÓg, Cumann na mBunscol and County Post-Primary Committee, to ensure the effective promotion of Gaelic Games through Club, School, and Community links.
• Under the direction of the Chairperson of Coaching and Games Committee, and in conjunction with the designated resource in Coaching and Games Croke Park, establish and maintain effective partnerships with key local stakeholders, partners, other agencies, and sponsors, i.e., Local Sports Partnerships, County Council etc. to ensure that the GAA solicit the maximum support and funding available in promoting and growing the Association at local level.
• Coordinate an annual audit of clubs and schools in relation to player development, coaching standards, facilities and resources and work with the county committees in the development of new units across these areas in line with the County Games Development Plan objectives.
• Support the Competitions & Memberships Officer in coordinating National Handball events taking place within the region.
• Support the delivery of national initiatives like Club Forum, Youth Expo etc within the region.
• To assist County Committee, Clubs and Members within the region with membership queries and registration through the Foirean system.
• To assist County Committee, Clubs and Members within the region with safeguarding and vetting matters.
• Responsible where necessary for fulfilling a lead national function e.g., Coach Development on behalf of GAA Handball.
• Responsible for reporting on GAA Handball games development activity on a monthly basis.
• The role will require work and attendance at evening and weekend meetings/activities in addition to normal day to day activities, when required and in line with business needs.
Essential Criteria
• Relevant third level qualification (Level 7 NFQ).
• At least 3-5 years’ experience of working in the GAA or similar sporting organisation (Voluntary or Professional Capacity).
• Clear and detailed knowledge and experience of the GAA’s coaching schemes and initiatives.
Key Skills
• Demonstrably excellent leadership skills and influencing ability.
• Excellent ability to manage people/resources and build and sustain good team relationships, and manage conflict.
• Strong organisational skills and demonstrable ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities; a hands-on approach to getting things done.
• Administrative and IT skills with a strong working knowledge of IT related packages and systems.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to clearly present goals and direction.
Desirable Criteria
• Qualified GAA Handball tutor.
• In-depth understanding and knowledge of GAA Handball.
• Level 1 GAA Coaching Qualification.
• Completed GAA Child Safeguarding Training.
• A passion for Gaelic Games and an understanding of the structures and culture of the GAA.
Other Requirements
• Own car with a full clean driving licence.
Candidates interested in the above role can apply by submitting an up to date cover letter and Curriculum Vitae to https://www.jobs.ie/job/GAA-Handball-Regional-Development-Officer/ajob101174912 on or before 3pm, Friday, 29th September 2023.
The GAA is an equal opportunities employer.