Féilte Peile

Gael Linn runs a number of sporting events which aim to provide an opportunity for pupils from Gaelscoileanna and Gaeltacht primary schools to meet on occasions where Irish is the dominant spoken language.

The féilte peile are primarily aimed at Gaelscoileanna and Gaeltacht primary schools.

Five féile peile are organised each year, two in Munster and one in each of the other provinces. Eight teams take part in them, with nine players on each team, both boys and girls. Qualifying preliminary rounds are often required. The festivals are held in Gaeltacht areas and involve one night away from home for all teams, except the home team, if any.

All players must be attending primary school.

Each team consists of nine players but a maximum of 18 players are allowed on the panel.

Teams are mixed and there must be at least 4 girls on the field at all times.

Play lasts 12 minutes per side.

One bounce and one solo run, or two solo runs, are allowed.

The ball can be picked up directly from the ground.

All free kicks, 45s, kick-outs, or touch-offs are allowed to be taken from the hand.

There is no square or free kick.

Games are played across the field (c. 85 metres).

Eight teams participate in each festival, [2 groups of 4 teams with a minimum of 3 games for each team]

€35 per child for those staying on board and €10 per child for those not staying on board. Gael Linn pays all costs‚ accommodation‚ food‚ prizes and other expenses at the féilte peile and 50% of the cost of the bus. Each school is allowed to bring up to 18 children to the festivals.

The Gael Linn Cup and medals are awarded to the winners. Medals are also awarded to the other teams taking part in the finals.

In addition to football, the students take part in other fun events – quizzes, concerts, céilí, and more.