Hurling history project planned

The project, organised by Aghaderg GFC and Ballyvarley HC, will focus on the history of Ballyvarley and how hurling has tied in with local people and the area over the past 200 years – with the potential to touch on two world wars, the Troubles and social issues such as transport and rural depopulation.

Different generations of families in the area will contribute to oral histories about how both hurling and the community have changed together over decades.

The club will research and publish a book recording local hurling history – to be launched at a celebration event when complete – along with a DVD of recordings from both past and present.

A wall mural depicting the significance of the sport to local people will also be painted at the club as part of the project.

Paul Mullan, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund Northern Ireland, said: “This is an interesting project which will weave together the community’s history with heritage of hurling in the area.

“It’s a great example of what can be done with some of our smaller grant programmes.