GAELIC SPORTS WORLD Issue 23 – April 10, 2015 | Page 8

Following the North American County Board convention in Orlando, the NACB made the decision to support a push into school PE programs as the next logical step for games development in the US. Mainstreaming the sports is now seen as providing many solid advantages, the least of which allows Gaelic games to play to one of its true strengths – the multiplicity of skills used during play. As Mr. McCarthy put it, “We have previously promoted Gaelic games in the US primarily from the point of view of their uniqueness, but working with PE professionals allows us to focus on the actual benefits of play.” Terry Lynch, the NACB Coach Educator chairperson, says that the SHAPE is the perfect vehicle for getting GAA noticed and its games showcased. “There is no better forum than the SHAPE America convention to get the word out about the actual benefits of play to PE and fitness professionals. SHAPE (The Society for Health and Physical Educators) is the largest organization in the world for PE, fitness and related professions,” he said. “SHAPE’s convention provided teachers with NACB Booth at the SHAPE Convention with Tracy Schellberg and Terry Lynch. Photo: Kathlyn Quinn. many different opportunities for professional development, advocacy and numerous resources for their classrooms. It presents a wide variety of group has been trained by Croke Park and Munster seminars and programs to teachers and also provides council to convene formal GAA coach certification a comprehensive exhibit hall, where NACB operated its courses. The tutors also connect with active coaches booth.” in the various NACB divisions with the latest in coaching resources. Lynch also acts as the interface between NACB and the GAA in Ireland on coach certification SCHOOLS PROGRAM and coach resource issues. As NACB Coach Education chair Lynch is responsible for coordinating the activities of 30 Coach Education Seattle’s location for this year’s SHAPE America convenTutors presently active in the US (NY is separate). This tion was seen as a strong advantage. As Gaelic Sports 8