Catch the Gaelic game of hurling in Asheville, NC

We’re breaking down the Irish sport of hurling including its rules and where you can catch a game.

A worn white ball with curved stitching like a baseball lies on a pitch of sunny grass.

The ball is called a sliotar, pronounced “slit-er.”

Photo by Adrian via Pexels

Table of Contents

There are many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but have you heard about hurling? No, not that kind of hurling. We’re talking about the Irish sport.

What is hurling?

This ancient Gaelic game is the national sport of Ireland and looks a bit like field hockey played with a baseball.

Players use a wooden stick to pass and score points by shooting through the opponent’s goalpost. Players use the stick (called a hurl or hurley) to hit and balance the ball (called a sliotar).

Want to learn all the official rules? Check out the US Gaelic Athletic Association (USGAA).

Get involved

Unfortunately, it looks like we don’t have an official USGAA hurling clubyet. That means the sliotar is in our court (so to speak) and the best way to get your hands on a hurley is by starting your own club. Scope out the future competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map.

More from AVLtoday
Get a look into how Asheville built its architectural identity brick by brick through the 1920s.
The Thompson Street venue will host Rhiannon Giddens, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Mavis Staples, and Hurray for the Riff Raff for its first show in August.
Whether you prefer pitching your tent by the river or glamping amongst the treetops, there’s a Hipcamp with your name on it less than an hour from home.
Similar past recognitions like “Beer City USA” have helped put Asheville in the national spotlight.
The City of Asheville and ATG Entertainment have set their sights on a downtown location for the potential mixed-use development with plans to request a land hold next month.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Learn more about Community Supported Agriculture and partner with a local farm during CSA Week.
Indulge in “a damn fine cup of coffee,” cherry pie, and other themed treats during the annual celebration of the cult classic tv show.
Asheville has no shortage of foodie features headed to your TV screens. Here’s how to keep up with them all.