Support Us Button Widget

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
Find four fun ways to get moving this Thanksgiving.
The search is on for the stuffed Bizzy Bears taking up residence at Buncombe County businesses.
The NC Wildlife Resources Commission determined the “selfie bear” was fit to survive on her own and released her in a remote area of WNC.
Gather your crew to enjoy some fa-la-la-la-libations at these holiday pop-up bars around Asheville.
This article is being updated daily to include information shared at Buncombe County community briefings.
Commissioners approved $1.5 million for Helene Relief, including rental assistance — plus, learn how to apply for rental assistance from Eblen Charities, who has partnered with the City of Asheville to distribute funds.
Feel the holiday spirit while you find goods and gifts from local makers at these holiday markets happening around the city.
The local chocolate company was lauded by the media icon for its Classic Hot Chocolate Collection.
At this morning’s Buncombe County briefing, Water Resources Department spokesperson Clay Chandler announced that the boil water notice has been lifted.
During the Friday briefing, Water Resources Department PIO Clay Chandler announced that the boil water notice may be lifted as early as next week.