An examination of the growth and importance of Gaelic games in Asia: An internationalization of a local sport

Abstract

In the 21^st Century, people are no longer limited to a geographic region and are increasingly moving to new countries in search of work, leisure, or a new life. This transnational movement has encouraged a mingling of cultures, lifestyles and identities.  Such movements have positive and negative effects on the local and immigrant population.  The aim of this paper is to highlight through a historical analysis how a locally based amateur sport (Gaelic Football) can become a valuable tool in bringing communities together. The sport of Gaelic football has traditionally been an Irish focused sport, and yet, today the sport is played on 5 Continents with an ever-increasing number of non-natives playing, especially in Asia. This study contends that sports such as Gaelic football can help to create a bridge between communities and enhance an exchange of cultures that breaks down any preconceived barriers. Using sport as a tool to breakdown cultural barriers is a concept that sports organizations utilize today especially in professional and global organizations. This paper highlights the importance of the same concept at the local level rather than at a more global level.

Keywords: Sport, culture, Asia, Gaelic Athletic Association