During August 9 – 11, 2016, 57 teams competed in the Etihad Airways GAA World Games in Dublin, Ireland (The Gaelic Athletic Organization is Ireland’s largest sporting organization).  One of the teams included the North American Hurling Team, which was comprised of members from five different Central Division Clubs, including Milwaukee’s own Milwaukee Hurling Club (MHC). 

MHC sent three players, Joel Ingebrigston, Sam Hanrahan, and Captain Patrick Foley to represent North America. Throughout the course of the week the team played six matches against other teams, mainly non-Irish born players from New York and Germany. They won five out of six matches and qualified to play at Croke Park for the overall Hurling (Native) Championship. 
 

 
photo from crokepark.ie

For any hurler, especially one who is non-Irish born, the chance to play at the revered Croke Park is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The North American Central Division Team knew what an honor it was; therefore, they made sure to play their hearts out in the final match.

After 30 minutes of play in the final, the score was 2-6 (12) to 1-6(9). MCH player Ingebrigston fought to win possessions that led to points and goals. Foley had many defensive blocks/stops, and Hanrahan scored four points! The NACD team ended the match and became the Hurling GAA World Games Native CHAMPIONS! 

Afterwards, each player was awarded a medal and the team received a plaque. On behalf of the CelticMKE organization, which strives to promote and preserve Celtic and Irish history and culture, we would like to extend a congratulations to the North American Central Division Hurling team for such an amazing accomplishment!