Carlow LGFA club scoops county crown and €2,000 prize in GAA's Glór na nÓg competition

A Carlow LGFA club has landed a €2,000 boost for youth development after being named the county winner in the GAA and Amazon-backed Glór na nÓg competition.

Ballon LGFA were announced as Carlow’s county winners as part of the nationwide initiative, which was set up to "amplify the voices of young people in GAA clubs" and provide direct funding for grassroots teams.

The Glór na nÓg scheme invited junior members of GAA, LGFA and Camogie clubs to share what makes their club special and how it could be improved, with submissions assessed for "constructiveness, innovation and demonstration of community spirit".

While Roscommon club Shannon Gaels claimed the overall €8,000 top prize, 28 clubs across the country were selected as county winners, with Ballon LGFA receiving €2,000 for Carlow.

Croke Park Stadium Director and GAA Commercial Director Peter McKenna said the initiative gives young members "a meaningful voice in shaping the future of their clubs while celebrating what makes our community so special".

READ MORE | Carlow club stalwart set to be honoured on national stage at Volunteers in Sport Awards

Amazon Country Manager Alison Dunn said the standard of entries from clubs around Ireland had been "outstanding", adding: "These winners represent the very best of youth engagement and community spirit, and we’re delighted to support their continued development with €85,000 in funding."

The Glór na nÓg programme was launched last November as a partnership between Amazon and the GAA, with young players invited to submit ideas through a dedicated digital platform accessed via QR codes at clubs and online.

As part of the prize structure, one overall winner received €8,000, provincial winners received €4,250 each, county winners €2,000, and a number of clubs received €500 commendation prizes.

Funding is intended to support youth development and equipment purchases at local club level, with organisers saying the initiative is about empowering young people to help shape the future of their clubs.