Intersport Elverys Reveal the new Mayo GAA Home Jersey for the 2022/23 season

Posted on September 30, 2022 at 11:23 am.

Mayo GAA Kit Launch 2022/23 – Press Release | Friday 30th September 9am.

INTERSPORT Elverys together with the Mayo GAA county boards and O’Neills officially unveiled the new home kit today at the home of Mayo GAA – Hastings Insurance MacHale Park. The new kit will be worn by Mayo GAA, Mayo LGFA, and Mayo Camogie teams from underage to senior level and for the first time each code is featured together in the launch campaign.

Intersport Elverys aims to help connect more people with sport. In GAA, our county teams represent pride and passion. It’s the dedication and commitment of players and supporters that is always inspiring others to grow our national games.

The new-look jersey returns to the bottle green that served Mayo football well between 2012 and 2018, while adding a silicone badge and three stripes to modernise the strip. It features a stripped-back, clean design that honours the traditional colours of green and red, while continuing to be one of the most recognisable jerseys for Irish people around the globe.

The jersey also includes the Portwest sponsor logo on the men’s and ladies football jerseys.

The home jersey is available to purchase from today at Intersport Elverys stores nationwide or online at Elverys.ie The jersey is also available for purchase at www.oneills.com. The LGFA, Camogie and Goalkeeper kits will be available for pre-order from today.

Seamus Touhy, Mayo GAA Chairman, said, “We are grateful for the ongoing support of our title sponsor Intersport Elverys and look forward to the release of our new jersey which also features our commercial partners Portwest. Our partnership with Intersport Elverys has developed over many years and look forward to working with Intersport Elverys in the years to come. Their support has been a key pillar in highly competitive performances of our Mayo teams. Mayo’s loyal supporters have been instrumental over the years and Mayo GAA are sincerely indebted for this support as we look forward to the season ahead”

Philip Staunton, Head Teamsports Buyer Intersport Elverys, commented, “Intersport Elverys is delighted to be entering our 26th season supporting Mayo GAA. The journeys and adventures we’ve had with players and supporters since 1998 has been the greatest pleasure and we look forward to the latest chapter of our partnership. We take great pride being based in the beating heart of Mayo with our expanding Head Office in Castlebar and four stores county-wide that intertwine us with the local community and understand what Gaelic Games mean in Mayo. The responsibility of being the chosen destination for young footballers, hurlers, and camogie players to try on the Mayo shirt they aspire to wear at senior level is an honour for Intersport Elverys. We wish all teams well this coming season.”

Mayo LGFA Chairperson Declan Kennedy, has said, “Once again Mayo LGFA are delighted to come together with Mayo GAA and Mayo Camoige to launch this jersey together with our title sponsor Intersport Elverys who have supported us over the past number of years. We are also boosted by the fact that Portwest are continuing their support of Mayo LGFA and will be featured on this new jersey. It is positive to have successful Mayo businesses backing Mayo LGFA both on and off the field while also working tirelessly to unite our supporters who are the foundation of our organisation. We’re thankful to all our supporters, including our generous sponsors, who are as passionate about the sport as we are. Here’s to 2023 in the Green and Red!”

Rosemary Smith, Mayo Camogie Chairperson, said “We are excited to enter 2023 our third year playing at adult level. We are extremely grateful for all the ongoing support from Mayo GAA along with Intersport Elverys and Portwest – both proud Mayo and global businesses. Camogie is a growing sport in Mayo, we have had great success this year and look forward to continuing to grow our sport and represent the red and green of Mayo with pride.”

From Portwest Rachel Davoren, Managing Director of Portwest Ireland, commented, ‘We are delighted to see the launch of the second iteration of the Mayo jersey with Portwest across the back. The partnership has been really positively received by our customers and colleagues alike and we look forward to continuing to work with Mayo GAA and Intersport Elverys on this. It has led to some great initiatives, such as our current Play for a Day Campaign which allows primary school children to be in with a chance to win a training session with Mayo GAA senior players. Community projects such as this one are why we got involved in the first place, as the GAA brings so much to the community within Mayo and Portwest are proud to help develop this alongside them.’

Enda Doherty, Marketing Manager from O’Neills, has said, “We’re proud to produce the Mayo jersey for the 2023 season. There is always a great demand for the Mayo jersey, and everyone is aware of the huge passion for Gaelic Games in the county and the Mayo diaspora across the world. We’re proud to produce a jersey that is eye-catching, which we know will be worn with pride by players and supporters alike, in an exciting time for the county.”

Photo caption:

30 September 2022; Tommy Conroy, Kathryn Sullivan, Keith Higgins, Padraig O’Hora pictured at McHale Park at the reveal of the new Mayo GAA 22/23 home kit. The jersey is available to purchase from Friday, September 30th from the official retail partner of Mayo GAA, Intersport Elverys. Purchase online at www.elverys.ie and in selected stores nationwide. The jersey is also available for purchase at www.oneills.com.

The Mayo GAA home jersey is now available at Intersport Elverys with the Mayo LGFA, Camogie & Goalkeeper jersey now available for Pre-Order.

Best GAA Players of All time: Ultimate Football XV 2000-2020

Posted on June 27, 2022 at 3:50 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

Over the past 20 years we’ve been graced with some of the best GAA players of all time lining out for their counties.

We’ve seen Dublin become the greatest team ever, Mayo’s continual All-Ireland heartbreak, the great Tyrone/Armagh rivalry of the Noughties, some Kerry magic and much more.

We love our GAA at Intersport Elverys, so we’ve tasked ourselves with the unenviable task of picking the best GAA players of all time for our ultimate football XV.

It wasn’t easy and we had to make some difficult decisions for who gets the start.

We know we’ve left some lads disappointed at being omitted, but that’s what GAA management is all about right?

Making those hard decisions!

Before we start, you might like to check out our Ultimate Guide to Gaelic Football Positions Blog?

Best GAA Players of all Time

1. Goalkeeper: Stephen Cluxton (Dublin GAA)

Without doubt, one of the easiest decisions we had to make.

Cluxton will go down as the greatest GAA goalkeeper of all time, finishing up last year with eight All-Ireland medias to his name, captain for seven of those.

He was the great revolutionary of the goalkeeping position, transforming the requirements and expectations on modern-day goalkeepers to a more quarter-back role.

His kickouts and quick restarts, as well as his dead-ball accuracy, made his one of the most important cogs in the Dublin juggernaut.

Full Back line

2. Right Corner back: Keith Higgins (Mayo GAA)

The former Young Footballer of the Year retired with four All Stars but without that All-Ireland medal he came so close to achieving.

However, the Ballyhaunis GAA man was consistently excellent across two decades and on the biggest stage of them all.

Versatile enough to play anywhere on the pitch if required, Higgins really made his name as a man-marking corner back who could punish teams on the front foot with his electric pace.

3. Full Back: Seamus Moynihan (Kerry GAA)

The Kerry star was a colossus defender, finishing his career with four Celtic Crosses and three All Stars, being considered as one of the greats.

Comfortable at centre back or full back, Moynihan was a complete package – renowned for his marking, football ability, strength, and pace.

Although he retired from inter-county football in 2006 and played much of his football during the 1990s, Moynihan could not be omitted from the team.

4. Left Corner Back: Marc Ó Sé (Kerry GAA)

The youngest of the Ó Sé brothers had some competition here, with Mick Fitzsimons, Philly McMahon and Johnny Cooper all unlucky not to be picked.

But as a former Footballer of the Year and for his out-and-out defensive qualities, the Kerry man gets the nod.

Often underappreciated compared to his brothers, Tomás and Darragh, Marc was consistency personified during the past two decades.

He won his last All-Ireland with Kerry in 2014 before calling it a day two years later.

There never anything too swashbuckling about him, but he did all the basics at the highest of quality and that is crucial.

Half Back line

5. Left Wing Back: Lee Keegan (Mayo GAA)

Mayo’s greatest player of all time, Lee Keegan is also the highest scoring defender of all time with 6-40 in championship football.

The Westport GAA man made his name as an explosive and attack-minded wing back, before adapting to a man marking corner back later in his career.

In Mayo’s biggest days, Keegan has been able to negate the opposition’s best player while also hurting them at the other end.

Footballer of the Year in 2016, there ill never be another Lee Keegan.

6. James McCarthy (Dublin GAA)

A Rolls Royce football, McCarthy was a pivotal figure in Dublin’s six-in-a-row winning team.

Comfortable in midfield and in the half forward line, McCarthy’s best position is in the half back line where his physicality, presence, calmness on the ball and explosiveness make him a huge threat.

A four-time All Star, the Ballymun star is widely and rightly considered as one of the best footballers the game has ever seen.

Karl Lacey of Donegal GAA can feel hard done by, but the competition in the half back line was simply immense.

7. Jack McCaffrey (Dublin GAA)

Watching Jack McCaffrey in full flight is something special and his goal against Kerry in the 2019 All-Ireland Final was him at his best.

Making his championship debut in 2013, McCaffrey won the Footballer of the Year award in 2015 and received a second nomination in 2018.

His electrifying pace destroyed so many teams throughout his years, while his attacking threat and defensive skills improved year-on-year.

One of the greatest wing backs ever.

Midfield

8. Midfield: Brian Fenton (Dublin GAA)

Fenton is midfield and Gaelic football royalty – arguably the greatest midfielder of all time, and we don’t say that lightly.

Genius when in possession and a trojan workrate when in not, Fenton was an inspirational figure for Dublin during their famous campaign playing in every minute of the six-in-a-row.

Amazingly, the Raheny GAA man didn’t lose his first game in a Dublin jersey until 2021 and to date has five All Stars to his name.

A Footballer of the Year award is coming down the road.

9. Midfield: Darragh Ó Sé (Kerry GAA)

No midfield could be complete without this towering Kerryman.

The second of the Ó Sé brothers to make this team, Darragh was the engine room and midfield dynamo of the great Kerry team during the noughties.

Powerful on the ground and dominant in the air, Ó Sé was also an excellent kickpasser and much of his great play involved supplying quality ball to a dangerous attack.

He retired in 2010 with four All Stars and six All-Ireland titles.

Half Forward Line

10. Right Half Forward: Diarmuid Connolly (Dublin GAA)

Much maligned at times during his career for various incidents not involving a football, there is no doubting the class of Diarmuid Connolly.

On his day there was few, if any, who could match the sheer level of skill and the effortlessness of how he executed those skills than Connolly.

Many say his return of only two All Stars is an indication of how he was perceived by the public and media due to his discipline issues.

However, you can’t deny his ability.

11. Centre Forward: Ciaran Killkenny (Dublin GAA)

A star touted from an early age, Kilkenny went on to surpass even those expectations.

Tempted to a career in the AFL during his late teens, the Castleknock GAA man opted to throw his hand in with his native county and how that worked out for all parties!

He has been a mainstay in the all-dominant Dubs’ team for his industry in the half forward line and his scoring ability.

Named Player of the Year in 2021, Kilkenny is still only 28 years-old and has many more years ahead of him.

12. Left Half Forward: Séan Cavanagh (Tyrone GAA)

Although not in his most natural position here, it was impossible to leave out Séan Cavanagh from this team.
A box-to-box midfielder in his early years, before adapting as a deadly full forward, Cavanagh inspired his native Tyrone to three All-Ireland titles.

He also captained Ireland at the International Rules Series, Cavanagh was a stylish attacker who won Player of the Year in 2008.

Full Forward Line

13. Right Corner Forward: Colm Cooper (Kerry GAA)

How ‘The Gooch’ never won a Footballer of the Year award is almost unfathomable.

Maybe he was a victim of his own consistent brilliance, of which is evident in winning a ridiculous eight All Star awards and kicking Kerry to five All-Irelands.

The Dr Crokes GAA clubman hit a massive 23-283 in his 85 senior appearances for Kerry.

14. Full Forward: Michael Murphy (Donegal GAA)

Although deployed all over the field throughout his career with Donegal, Murphy’s best position is on the edge of the square.

Without him, Donegal would not have won the All-Ireland title in 2012 and been as consistently competitive as they have been.

His goal against Mayo in the 2012 All-Ireland final was sensational and he has captained Donegal to five Ulster titles.

Donegal’s best ever.

15. Left Corner Forward: Conor McManus (Monaghan)

The last place on the team was the most difficult to pick.

Close runners include the championship’s all time leading scorer Cillian O’Connor, Bernard Brogan, Peter Canavan and Con O’Callaghan, however, it’s hard to look McManus.

Although he never competed in an All-Ireland Final, McManus was a mesmerising forward on his day and, at times, looked unmarkable.

A three-time All Star, shone bright on a team that has been fighting far above their weight during this era and we just couldn’t leave him out.

Conclusion

We know we’ve left some superstars out of our team and some can feel really hard done by.

But the standard was incredible and there’s certainly an alternative XV that could be picked!

Why not tell us yours?

You might like our blog on our Retro GAA Jerseys Best Moments?

What does a Black Card mean in GAA

Posted on June 21, 2022 at 12:05 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

The black card has been much maligned and changed since it was first introduced into Gaelic football, but what does a black card mean in GAA right now?

It’s as confusing to some as it ever was, and its interpretation can leave a lot to be desired.

In this blog we’ll clarify exactly what does a black card mean in GAA.

If you’re new to GAA and don’t know what it stands for, check out this Blog on what GAA means here.

When was the Black Card in GAA Introduced?

A black card was brought into football back in 2014 in an attempt to curb cynical fouling, which had crept into football.

Remember Seán Kavanagh/Joe Brolly gate?

Well, that moment is often – unfairly or fairly – scapegoated as the tipping point as to why the rule was introduced.

Initially it was decided that the player receiving the black card would be substituted immediately and not allowed back onto the field.

But that has since been changed to the 10-minute sin bin rule.

What does a black card mean in GAA

To be given a black card in the GAA, a player must leave the field for ten minutes, and no replacement can come on during that period.

Effectively, your team is a man down for ten minutes.

Should a player receive a black card followed by a yellow card later in the match, or vice versa, they will be issued a red card.

The time in the sin bin will start when the referee restarts the game after the foul.

The player can only return to play, after the period of ten minutes has ended, at the next break in play and with the permission of the referee.

If the goalkeeper happens to get a black card he could be replaced by one of the outfield players who should wear a distinctive jersey or a sub made.

A black card will also carry into extra time, as well as the non-expired time of the black card.

Black card offences in the GAA

Cynical Behaviour fouls

To deliberately pull down an opponent
To deliberately trip an opponent with the hand, arm leg or foot
To deliberately collide with an opponent after he has played the ball away or for the purpose of taking him out of the movement of play
To remonstrate in an aggressive manner to match officials
To threaten or to use abusive or provocative language or gestures to an opponent or teammate

All these fouls are completely up to the discretion of the referee.

Conclusion

We hope we’ve answered what does a black card mean in GAA for you.

Check out this cool video from the GAA below.

You can check out our GAA ranges HERE.

Your Guide to the GAA on TV this Weekend

Posted on May 30, 2022 at 11:39 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

With a busy weekend of sport ahead, we’ve got you covered with this guide for all the GAA on TV this weekend.

We love our GAA at Intersport Elverys and this guide has all the details of this weekend’s GAA fixtures that don’t feature on the box too.

GAA on TV this Weekend: Sunday, July 17 2022

All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final

Kilkenny v Limerick at 3.30pm on Sky Sports Arena & RTÉ Sport

Irish Yoga for GAA Players and Athletes

Posted on February 9, 2022 at 1:50 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

Irish Yoga continues to grow and grow, in part due to the huge benefits it can bring but also due to the many expert yoga instructors we have.
Intersport Elverys is fortunate to have our own expert Irish yoga instructor, Roberta Harrington, who has already given some great tips and classes on our platforms.

Check them out here blog on Basic Yoga Poses HERE and her Ultimate Guide to Yoga at Home HERE.

In this blog, Roberta takes you through some myths, tips & tricks, plus all the advantages for yoga for footballers, GAA players and athletes.

Irish Yoga Myths

“People always think they are to inflexible for yoga and I always laugh at this because if you’re poor at a particular skill in GAA, then the first thing you do is practice it.

“So if you’re practicing your shooting at first, it can be slow to improve. Equally so with your mobility. But once you practice and give it some time, you will see massive improvement and your body will actually crave it.”

Is Yoga Beneficial to Weight Loss?

“Pending on your fitness and body type, it differs from individual to individual.

“But certainly the more rigorous styles of yoga, such as Vinyasa or power yoga, is a very dynamic type of yoga where you will work on strength-based postures and challenge yourself mentally and physically.

“They may not be suitable for beginners, but certainly for weight loss, to get a good sweat on, or just to tone up and strengthen your core, power yoga is the answer.

“And it burns a lot of calories while also working on that range of motion and flexibility.”

Benefits of Irish Yoga to GAA Players and Footballers

“Yoga can be absolutely incredible when it comes to working towards injury prevention – it’s very proactive in that sense.

“With GAA and other sports, you see a lot of reoccurring injuries, like hamstring tears, ACL injuries and shoulder issues, and with yoga, we learn to adapt in any given situation by increasing or lengthening the muscles within the body.

“So with GAA, you’re doing a lot of the same motions over and over again but when your body is taken out of that position, the potential for injury increases. Yoga is amazing for exposing your body to those positions and getting it used to it.

“You see huge build up in quads and hamstrings with GAA players and other footballers, but sometimes there can be imbalances in glutes or knees and yoga is amazing for these.”

Yoga for Mental Health

“Yoga is also fantastic for concentration, mental focus and clarity, which works wonders on the GAA pitch.

“For game days, simple breathing techniques that you learn in class can really help to ground you and become that little bit more present for the match.”

Is yoga becoming more popular in Ireland with GAA players?

“I see a huge amount of teams now using yoga in pre-season and I am working with a lot too, which is fantastic to see.

“Once it was woman dominated in our classes, now you see a lot of GAA players, rugby players, soccer players, who find it a great way to complement their training on the pitch or in the gym.

“They often had the idea that yoga is really spiritual and done by lads with dreadlocks, and are pleasantly surprised to see that that is not the case. Yoga is a great humbler for them too, because they might think they are really strong or flexible, but one class of yoga shows they are not!

“So my advice is to start basic, don’t feel like you can go straight into an advanced class, find your feet and start to progress from there.”

Most Memorable National League GAA Moments

Posted on January 25, 2022 at 3:12 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

To celebrate the start of the 2023 Allianz National League (GAA) in both football and hurling, we’re looking back at some of the most memorable moments throughout the years.

Intersport Elverys is steeped in GAA history and we’ve witnessed some of the best and most exciting moments from teams like Mayo GAA, Dublin GAA and Tipperary GAA to name just a few.

Check out or leading range of county GAA gear right HERE.

Or take a trip down memory lane below.

We’ve got even more quality nostalgic content on our Retro GAA Jerseys Blog – we promise, you’ll enjoy it.

2019 National League: Mayo end Croke Park silverware hiatus

Mayo 3-11 Kerry 2-10

The Green and Red blasting out from the Croke Park speakers shortly after Mayo defeated Kerry in the 2019 National League Final signalled a real release of emotion.

Time and time again Mayo had suffered heartbreak at GAA HQ, many times at the hands of their Kerry opponents, since their last victory in 2001.

The outpouring of emotion by players and supporters showed how much this meant for Mayo GAA.

James Horan’s men were deserved winners, but as they so often did in the past, did things the difficult way, relying on a brilliant injury time save by Robbie Hennelly to keep them in the game.

Ballina’s Ciaran Treacy then goaled in the third minute of injury time to put the game to bed.

Mayo trailed by 2-3 to 0-5 at half time, but big displays from James Carr and Diarmuid O’Connor, before goals from Mattie Ruane and O’Connor, helped Mayo to a famous win.

Shop Mayo GAA HERE.

2011 National League: Dublin GAA’s long wait ended

Dublin 0-22 Kilkenny 1-7

With the Dublin hurling revolution in full steam, they stormed Croke Park and ended a 72-year wait for a National League Hurling title with victory over Kilkenny.

It was no mean feat either to beat the Cats in the manner Dublin did – complete dominance!

Croke Park was rocking and the whole country stood up and took notice.

Anthony Daly’s side rattled Kilkenny from the off, and Brian Cody’s side’s chances went from bad to worse when Eoin Larkin got his marching orders for an off-the-ball incident.

The likes of Liam Rushe and Conal Keaney were outstanding, while the cheers roared out as captain John McCaffrey lifted the trophy in the Hogan Stand.

Shop Dublin GAA HERE.

2003 National League: Cats win all-time classic

Kilkenny 5-14 Tipperary 5-13

Has there been a greater National League Hurling final than the 2003 clash between hurling’s great rivals?

The two best teams in the land put on a spectacle of hurling and recorded the highest aggregate score ever recorded in a National League Hurling final.

Amazingly, there was 6-6 along scored in the final 15 minutes of carnage, with 4-4 of that going in favour of Kilkenny, who came back from eight points down to win.

A second goal from Martin Comerford in the 50^th minute sparked the recovery, before Lar Corbett temporarily replied for Tipperary to quinch the glimmer from the Cats.

But then all hell broke loose, with Charlier Carter and DJ Carey combing for a goal, before Carter hit Kilkenny’s first and then the dazzling Eddie Brennan rifled home the fifth to give them a 5-12 to 4-13 lead.

Tipp’s John Carroll then restored his side’s lead with his second goal of the game.

But cometh the hour, cometh the man and that was Henry Shefflin.

He levelled the game with a free in the 69^th minute before kicking over the winning point in injury time after a dazzling run.

Phew!

Shop Tipperary GAA or Kilkenny GAA here.

1991 National League: Offaly cross final frontier

Offaly 2-6 Wexford 0-10

1991 was the year in which Offaly cemented their status in hurling’s hall of fame.

Never before had they captured a National League title in Croke, despite their success throughout the 1980s.

In beating a dogged Wexford, the young Offaly team, of which nine starters were under the age of 25, Padraig Horan’s side were determination personified.

Goals either side of half time from Daithi Regan was pivotal, while dual-star star Michael Duignan had an outstanding 35 minutes, despite being marked by the highly rated Liam Dunne.

But the likes of Johnny Pilkington and Niall McDonald stood up when needed in the second half to fire their county to the promise land.

Shop Offaly GAA right HERE.

2009-2012 National League: Rebels go on the rampage

The year 2009 marked a four-year National League winning streak for the Cork GAA footballers with a 1-14 to 0-12 win over Monaghan in the Division 2 Final.

From there, the Cork GAA footballers would complete a historic three-in-a-row of National League Division 1 titles.

At the time it was considering a marvellous achievement, compared to the days of Micko’s dominating tenure with the Kerry team in the 70s in one way.

What made the achievement even more impressive was that they did it without the wider support of the Cork GAA public, who showed little appetite for football and barely travelled to Croke Park.

In 2010, Cork defeated Mayo 1-17 to 0-12 with starring performances from Daniel Goulding and Donncha O’Connor.

The year after, they came from seven points down midway through the second half to defeat Dublin by 0-21 to 2-14, thanks to a late point from Ciaran Sheeran.

In 2012, Mayo again were the victims, with Cork running out 2-10 to 0-11 victors and looking like a real tour-de-force.

Shop Cork GAA right HERE.

2017 National League: Kerry end Dublin’s reign

Kerry 0-20 Dublin 1-16

Jim Gavin’s Dublin team were in the midst of their juggernaut when Kerry spoiled their four-year reign as Division 1 National Football League champions.

In a pulsating encounter, Dean Rock saw a late free strike the post to send the game to extra as the Kerry GAA claimed their first national league title since 2009.

The game had it’s fair share of controversy, with referee Paddy Neilan flashing black cards to Dublin’s Diarmuid Connolly, and Kerry’s Anthony Maher and Johnathan Lyne.

However, late points from midfield duo David Moran and Brian Sheehan helped Kerry over the line by the narrowest of margins.

The Kingdom will also thank the outstanding Paul Geaney, who hit 0-8 (4f) on the day for their win.

Shop Kerry GAA right HERE.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this National League GAA most memorable moments.

Make sure to let us know what your favourite moments from the National League are.

If you’re a complete newbie to the GAA, our Ultimate Guide to Gaelic Football Positions Blog might help you out.

Christmas Gifts For Her | Gift Guides 2021

Posted on November 10, 2021 at 4:30 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

It’s not always easy to buy for the special woman in your life but this Gifts For Her Guide should make it easier for you!

Everyone has a wish list for Christmas 2021 so to give you some inspiration, we’re looking at the latest and top products across our top range of brands.

We’re Inspired by Sport this year, so take a look below at some of our gifts ideas for her.

We’ve also got some Christmas Gift guides for him and Christmas gift guides for those special kids in your life.

Gifts Ideas For The Sport Fanatic

GAA

The new GAA season is nearly upon us, have you got your colours sorted yet?

Don’t worry if you don’t, because there is still plenty of time left and Intersport Elverys is here to help you.

We have GAA gear from all 32 counties, from jerseys to hats, including the Mayo GAA 2021 Women’s Fit Home Jersey and the Dublin 2021 Home Women’s Jersey and the Portland training ranges.
There’s also the Galway Home Women’s Jersey and we’ve got a host of GAA Christmas Jumpers too!

Check out our full GAA range HERE.

Rugby

The rugby season is back on track and we have some great gift ideas for the special women in your life.

As official sport retail partner of Connacht Rugby, we have the full range of jerseys, jackets, training gear and more.

Also, we’ve got the new Canterbury Irish Rugby gear and the latest British & Irish Lions.

Take a look at our full range HERE.

Football

We’ve got a fantastic range of football jerseys and gear to have under the tree this Christmas.

The new orange FAI Away Jersey has been really popular since it’s launch. And as official retail partners of the FAI, we love it too.

Not only do we have the national team covered, we also have Premier League teams and our Airtricity League range.

Take a look at our full range HERE.

Gift Ideas For The Runner

Footwear

This year one thing is for sure, running and walking has been picked up by the masses, so a new comfortable pair of runners for under the tree would be a welcomed sight for many.

Getting footwear which is comfortable and durable are key when choosing runners and we have all this and more across the top running brands.

Some we have in mind for you are the very reliable ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 Women’s Running Shoe, the Brooks Ghost 14 Reflective Women’s Running shoe or the Under Armour Charged Rogue 2.5 Storm. And lets not forget the super cool Hoka Speedgoat 4 Women’s Runner.

All options are perfect for Winter running and would be a great gift to get started in the new year.

Or, why not check out the ASICS Running Range or the Brooks Running Range.

Take a look through out full footwear range HERE.

Clothing

Being warm, dry, safe and seen on the road when running is a thought every runner thinks of before facing the elements.

Right?

Clothing that ticks these boxes while also having an element of style to it would be a great gift for the runner in your life – like below.

The adidas Marathon Jacket in White, the dazzling Energetics Womens Coral IV Tights or the Nike Women’s Dri-Fit Race T-Shirt tick all those boxes.

Find all that and much more HERE.

Running Accessories

Looking to add extra bits to your gift, we’ve a number of essential running accessories to help them brave the Winter weather.

How about the cool Nike Alpha Ultrabreathe Sports Bra, the Brooks Fusion Midweight Gloves or the warm and cosy New Era New England Patriots NFL Bobble Beanie.

Check out our full range HERE.

Gift Ideas for The Trainer

Footwear & Clothing

Training will always be essential for so many of us and looking good when training is important for a lot too.

Inspire their workout wherever it may be with some of the latest training product across top brands.

The Skechers Arch Fit Women’s shoe has been very popular this year, as has the Puma Favourite Heather Tee Shirt and has this The North Face Half Zip.

But we have so much more than that too, so check out our full Training Range HERE.

Training Essentials

Every training addict will appreciate the tools that make it happen and we have a wide range of training essentials that are sure to tailor to whatever way a person trains.

Take a look at the Body Sculpture Massage Gun for those who really value their recovery; or how about a new Body Sculpture Yoga Mat to get your yoga groove on.

Or if you like to do some weights at home, these Body Sculpture 10kg Dumbbell set are perfect to get started.

Our full training range can be found HERE.

Wearable Tech

A piece of equipment that is slowly becoming essential for every gym goer, runner or an active worker is a smart watch or fitness tracker.

The latest Fitbit Ace 3 Fitness Tracker is jam-packed with technology and very affordable too. While the Garmin Venu is top of its league, just like the stylish Fitbit Luxe Smartwatch.

Check out all our wearable tech right HERE.

Gifts for the Style Minded

Footwear

If you’re buying for someone who prefers the style over functionality then we have a number of great products for you.

The North Face tent Mule Bootie will turn heads everywhere, while the adidas VL Court 2.0 are a timeless classic. And we all know you can’t go wrong with a pair of Nike Air Max SC .

You can find plenty more style minded trainers HERE.

Clothing

Some of these trainers need some comfortable and stylish tops to match, so check these out.

Stand out from the crowd in The North Face Women’s Diablo Down Jacket, or the Nike Therma-Fit Repel Jacket. Or what about the Nike Dri-Fit FC Pullover Hoodie?

You can find our full range HERE

Finishing Looks

Why not top off these looks with some of our most fashionable finishers, like the Under Armour Storm Insulated CGI Beanie or the adidas 3S Cap in white. Or the super cool New Era Green Bay Packers Beanie.

Check out all our hats and caps HERE or below.

Discover the Heart of Sport at Intersport Elverys this Christmas 2021.

Check out our full ranges to gift this Christmas 2021 HERE and Shop Local.

Everyone at Intersport Elverys wishes you and your family a very happy, safe and magic Christmas.

Christmas Gift Ideas For Kids | Gift Guides 2022

Posted on November 9, 2021 at 3:30 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Christmas is a big deal for all kids (young and old) and here at Intersports Elverys we have you sorted for all gift ideas for Christmas 2022.

Comfort is key for kids as they are always on the go, so look no further, we have everything you need this festive season to kit out the young ones.

That includes a wide variety of product ranges to suit everyone from top brands such as Nike, adidas, Puma and many more.

We’ve also got our gift guides for those special kids right HERE and gift guides for her right HERE.

Take a look below for our Christmas gift ideas for kids.

EVERYDAY WEAR FOR BOYS

Boys will be boys – we know that – but that’s fine because we have a great range of everyday casual wear, perfect for those busy lads on the go.

There’s lots to choose from.

Take a browse at some of our top picks including the Nike Swoosh Synthetic Filled Jacket, or the Under Armour FLC Full Zip Hoody. We also have the really popular O’Neills Skinny Tracksuit pants or the super cool The North Face React Half Zip.

For those big football fans, don’t miss our adidas Messi range.

Check out the full Boys range HERE or below.

EVERYDAY WEAR FOR GIRLS

At Intersport Elverys we know that style and comfort are equally important for girls and we have a wide variety of Pants, Tops, T-Shirts and much more to suit those requirements.

Some of our featured products include the Nike Dri-Fit Long Sleeve Half Zip, the Nike Girls Pro Tights or the Energetics Funda 6 Full Zip Hoodie. We also love the Under Armour Girls Rival Fleece Joggers.

We have a lot more everyday wear for girls, so check them out HERE or below.

FOOTWEAR FOR BOYS

Good footwear is so important for boys covering a lot of ground!

It’s also essential to help support growing kids, with comfort being a crucial aspect.

We’ve picked out some of our most popular, comfortable and stylish footwear like the adidas Boys Race TR21– perfect for schoolwear; or the ASICS Junior Boys Running shoe. Also proving popular is the classic Nike Air Max Bolt or if you want something for lounging around the house in, these North Face Camo Slippers are real quality.

Head over to our website to find our full range footwear for boys or click on HERE.

FOOTWEAR FOR GIRLS

For girls, the Skechers Heart Lights Junior shoe has been really popular this year, while the Puma Carina Black shoe is perfect for school.

In terms of style and comfort, you also can’t go wrong with the pretty Nike Air Max Bolt while the adidas Adilette Aqua Girls sandal is a must-have stocking filler.

Head over to our website to find our full range footwear for girls. Find them HERE.

JERSEYS

Do you have a Football or Rugby mad kid?

Why not treat them to their favourite team jersey this Christmas?

Whatever team they support Republic of Ireland, IRFU, Connacht or Liverpool, or what about Man United, Dublin GAA or Mayo GAA to name just a few?

To shop all of our jerseys, head over to our website HERE or shop in-store.

FOOTBALLS

For any football mad kid, you can’t go wrong with getting them a football to kick around the grass for hours on end.

We’ve got a massive selection and some great deals to choose from.

There’s the adidas Champions League Final , or the cool adidas TIRO Club Football or the Nike Premier League Strike 2021 Football . And if their a GAA kid, why not an O’Neills Size 5.

Check out our full range HERE.

ALTERNATIVE PRESENTS

And if you’re looking for something a bit different for your child – we’ve got that too.

How about the Precision Multi Sport Steel Goal for the backyard?

Or we’ve also got the Speedo Bio Fuse Training Fin for any watersport enthusiasts? Or the Wilson Federer Junior 26 Tennis Racket for any aspiring tennis players.

Don’t forget to check out our full Christmas range below or in-store!

Everyone at Intersport Elverys wishes you and your family a very happy and safe Christmas.

Intersport Elverys: Supporting Irish Athletes & Team Sports

Posted on July 13, 2021 at 3:28 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

AT Intersport Elverys, we absolutely love our sport and pride ourselves on supporting Irish athletes at all levels to fully maximise their potential.

From grassroots sport all the way to the very elite, supporting Irish athletes and sporting organisations dates back to our very origins and is part of our ethos.

We’re one of the biggest supporters of Irish sport in the country – and we’re at the heart of sport!

Below are some of the athletes and sporting organisations who we are proudly working with and supporting.

IRFU

Intersport Elverys is supporting Irish rugby for many years, including sponsors of the men’s and women’s 7s teams and now the Official Sports Retail Partner.

We stock a huge range of Official Ireland Rugby gear for the player and the fan (supporter) in all stores and online as well as bringing unique and exciting experiences to the Ireland Rugby supporter across our social channels.

FAI/FAI Summer Soccer Schools

We love Irish football and we’re extremely proud to be the Official Retail Partner of the Football Association of Ireland.

As well as that, we’re also the proud sponsors of the hugely popular FAI Summer Soccer Schools, which proved a massive hit with young boys and girls across the country again this year.

Mayo GAA/Mayo LGFA

As a Mayo brand, we’re massively honoured to be sponsoring Mayo GAA since the 1990s and continue to be the title sponsor of the various teams across all codes.

As Official Retail Partner, we stock a huge range of Mayo GAA gear for the player and supporter in stores around the country and online, as well as bringing unique and exciting experiences to the many proud Mayo GAA fans.

Dublin GAA

As Official Retail Partner of Dublin GAA, we stock a great range of Dublin GAA gear for the player and the supporter in stores around the country and online.

Love the Dubs’, love Intersport Elverys.

Tipperary GAA

As Official Retail Partner of the Premier County, as well as operating the official Tipperary GAA store in Thurles and online, we love bringing exciting experiences to the Tipperary GAA supporters.

We’ve been there through the good days and the bad and have enjoyed every minute.

Lovely hurlin’.

Connacht Rugby

Our relationship with Connacht Rugby dates back nearly 20 years and we were delighted to be named as Official Sports Retail Partner back in 2015/16 after being a previous sponsor.

Rianna Jarrett

Republic of Ireland star Rianna Jarrett and Intersport Elverys share common goals and vision – we’re deeply rooted in sports performance and we’re always striving to be number one.

The Wexford born star has just finished up a spell with WSL outfit Brighton and Hove Albion and no matter where she chooses to ply here trade next, we’ll be there right beside here.

Rianna has recovered from a number of major knee injuries throughout her career and she is an inspiration for anyone in what hard work, resilience and dedication can bring.

Bundee Aki

The Connacht, Ireland and Lions star has been a revelation since moving to the West Coast of Ireland back in 2014.

New Zealand born, Aki has transformed himself into one of the World’s best players and Intersport Elverys is delighted to be supporting him on that journey.

We look forward to what the future has in store.

VHI Women’s Mini Marathon

We have been involved as associate sponsor to this unique event since 2005, offering expert product advice and benefits for participants.

Irish Runner

Since partnering with Athletics Ireland in 2019 on a campaign called “Get Ireland Running”, we have been sponsors of the Gear & Gadget section in Irish Runner magazine, seeing the latest innovations in running products tested by a panel of runners of various ages and abilities.

A Starters Guide to Gaelic Football Positions

Posted on July 1, 2021 at 9:21 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

GAELIC football positions have evolved massively over the years.

The days of 15 players taking to the field and matching up with their opposing 15 for the entire game are long gone. Thirty years ago, if a corner back wandered up to the corner forward position he’d have got the curly finger and pulled straight off.

In the modern game, it’s now a prerequisite for corner backs to try and cover every blade of grass on the pitch.

Before we start, check out the graphic below for a quick refresh on the 15 positions on a Gaelic football team.

Now that we know the modern day Gaelic football positions, lets get into what skills are required to play them and the players who are making them their own at the top level.

Are you ready?

If not, and you want more GAA content, our Best National League moments is available to read right HERE.

Gaelic football positions: Goalkeeper (#1)

In a different era, the goalkeeper was a much simpler role.

You stood in goal and tried to stop goal-bound shots, while every kickout you had went long down the middle to the midfielders.

However, that manual has been torn up and republished, mainly thanks to Dublin GAA legend Stephen Cluxton.

After establishing himself as Dublin’s number one in 2001, Cluxton perfected the art of the short kickout and quick restart, with an ability to land the ball on a sixpence to his teammates.

But that’s not all.

Cluxton can also be a place kicker and score points (remember the 2011 All-Ireland Final?), has incredible reflexes which makes him a top-class shot stopper, is comfortable on the ball to take it out the field to create an overlap, as well as being a brilliant communicator to organise his team.

These days you have goalies like Monaghan’s Rory Beggan, Tyrone’s Niall Morgan and Donegal’s Shaun Patten who have all those aforementioned qualities and can basically play as an extra outfielder.
So really, a goalkeeper is an all-round style player.

Gaelic Football Positions: Corner back (#2 & #4)

The number one objective for any corner back is to mark the opposition team’s most threatening scorer.

A modern day corner back needs quick feet to keep with the usually fast-paced corner forward, upper body strength to be able to hold up the forward and dispossess the ball in the tackle, and discipline to avoid coughing up soft frees.

But of course, they’re now also expected to attack from the back and make long, lung-bursting runs up the field, breaking the opposition defensive line and chipping in on the scoreboard or setting up scores.

Donegal’s Eoghan Bán Gallagher and Galway’s Liam Silke are your typical attack-minded corner backs who regularly contribute to the scoreboard, while Dublin’s Mick Fitzsimons and Mayo’s Lee Keegan are renowned for their man-marking ability.

Gaelic Football Positions: Full Back (#3)

Donegal’s Neil McGee and former Dublin star Rory O’Carroll possessed the strength, power, marking ability and no-nonsense style that very regularly sees them hailed as the best full backs in the last decade.

Their main job was to protect the goal, snuff out attacks and be a big physical presence. They were never too bothered about galloping up the field to support the play. Cavan’s Pádraig Faulker is cut from the same cloth.

But depending on the team’s style of football, full backs are often expected to attack from deep. Young Footballer of the Year and Mayo’s Oísin Mullin, as well as Dublin’s Davy Byrne, are those type of all-action full backs who love to get up the field and don’t possess the same physical size as a Neil McGee for example.

Gaelic Football Positions: Wing Back (#5 & #7)

First of all, a high base of aerobic stamina is needed for this role. Inter-county wing backs can cover more than 10km during a game and nearly 2000m in sprint distances.

Wing backs needed to be versatile players who have pace to break lines and start attacks, good footballers to play those 40/50+ yard passes into the forwards, aggressive and disciplined to be winning breaking ball and making tackles, while an eye for the posts also helps.

Modern day wing backs like Donegal’s Ryan McHugh, Mayo’s Paddy Durcan, Dublin’s former Footballer of the Year Jack McCaffrey, Kerry’s Paul Murphy or Meath’s Donal Keogan are among the best out there right now.

Gaelic Football Positions: Centre Back (#6)

The centre back is clamp that holds the back line together. They’ll need all the skills of the wing back, but have to be more disciplined about sitting and holding the middle channel.

It can be the enforcer type role and the player needs to have a high football IQ to sniff out attacks before they come to fruition, while a touch of abrasiveness also helps.

Arguably, the importance of the old-school centre back has evolved to being more of a free role in the modern game, but guys like John Small of Dublin, Colm Boyle of Mayo, Derry’s Gareth McKinless and Peter Harte of Tyrone all have the traditional centre back style about them.

Gaelic Football Positions: Midfield (#8 & #9)

The engine room of the team – Midfielders are one of the most vital cogs in the wheel in terms of Gaelic football positions.

It wouldn’t be unusual to see them cover close to 12km in a single game, so they need to have incredible stamina. Plus, they’ll be required to win kickouts, link ball from defence to attack, defend and to get scores.

Dublin’s Brian Fenton is quite possibly one of the best midfielders to ever play the game, while his teammate James McCarthy isn’t too far off. Kildare’s Kevin Feely and Kerry’s David Moran are also complete footballers.

Those aforementioned guys are tall, athletic and powerful men.

Gaelic Football Positions: Wing Forward (#10 & #12)

Arguably the toughest position to play on the pitch due to the work rate required.

A wing forward is expected to do the defensive work of a wing back, but the attacking work of a midfielder and corner forward. Often they’ll find themselves covering ground and not getting on much ball, so patience is required to play the position well.

They need to be able to anticipate the breaking ball on kickouts, provide width on the attack and deliver high-quality passes to the inside line.

Dublin’s Nially Scully, Mayo’s Kevin McLoughlin, former Kerry star Paul Galvin, Roscommon’s Enda Smith and Cork’s Ruairi Deane are all dynamic ball carriers that can run all day.

Gaelic Football Positions: Centre Forward (#11)

The artist of the team – usually highly skilled, boasts a big engine and a natural born leader.

A centre forward needs vision, ability to scrap for breaking ball, can tackle, score and play pinpoint passes into the full forward line.

Often the most complete footballer on the team.

Kerry’s Seán O’Shea and Dublin’s Ciarán Kilkenny are the country’s best. Aidan O’Shea has enjoyed time their for Mayo, while Galway’s Shane Walsh can be unstoppable on his day. All those guys are supreme athletes, genius footballers and possess the ‘X Factor’.

Gaelic Football Positions: The Full Forward line (#13, #14 & #15)

Their main job is to put scores on the board, so an eye for the posts is the single most important factor for a good corner forward.

Most likely, they’ll also be the free taker – a massively responsible role that requires skill and concentration in abundance.

Pace and quick feet are a huge advantage in creating space and keeping away from the claws of a corner back, while good hands ensure an ability to win ball out in front.

Patience is another important attribute because often times the full forward line can be starved of ball, so being able to stay calm and make use of limited possession is crucial.

Some of the best include Cillian O’Connor, Dean Rock, Paddy McBrearty and Michael Murphy of Donegal, Conor McManus of Monaghan and the great David Clifford from Kerry to name a few.

That’s not to forget Daniel Flynn from Kildare, Paul Geaney, Shane McGuigan, Tyrone duo Conor McKenna and Cathal McShane and Armagh’s Riain O’Neill.

Conclusion

We hope this guide will help you find your best position on a Gaelic football team. And if you think we’ve left any player out who deserves a mention – no doubt we have – then let us know in the comments.

Otherwise, get out there and get practicing!