It’s an exciting time for everyone at Tir Conaill Harps GAC as preparations for the new season are well underway. Pre-season training has now begun for both the men’s and ladies’ teams, with players returning to the field full of enthusiasm for the months ahead.
A major recruitment drive is currently underway for the ladies’ team as the club looks to continue growing the women’s side of the game. This has been aided by the introduction of Tir Conaill Harps Mothers & Others which promotes the participation within the game of many ladies within the club who have never played Gaelic football before. Anyone interested in getting involved with either the Ladies team or mothers & others, whether experienced or new to Gaelic football, is encouraged to get in touch with the club and come along to training. Ladies training takes place on Mondays with Mothers & others on Sunday afternoons.
The men’s team have also been putting in the hard work ahead of the new campaign. Spirits are high as they look to build on the remarkable success of last season, when they secured the double by winning both the Intermediate League and Championship titles. The players and management are determined to carry that momentum into another competitive year and look to build on the success on 2026.
As part of their preparations, the men have already taken part in a number of challenging pre-season fixtures. The club was delighted to welcome Ballivor GFC from County Meath to Glasgow for a friendly match. Shortly after, the squad travelled to Belfast where they faced Naomh Gall CLG, followed by another competitive outing against local rivals Glasgow Gaels. These games have provided valuable preparation and a great opportunity for players to sharpen their skills ahead of the season.
One of the biggest highlights for the club was an international trip to the States. The Harps travelled across the Atlantic to Philadelphia to represent the club at this year’s Donegal Diaspora Initiative Convention. Tir Conaill Harps were joined by Gaelic football teams from Philadelphia, Boston, New York, London as well as the Donegal Masters team. The Donegal Dubai team were also due to be present but unfortunately unable to attend due to the ongoing troubles within the region.
It is a great honour for the club to be invited to represent not only the Donegal community in Glasgow, but also the wider Donegal diaspora across Scotland. While the club proudly includes players from all over Ireland and Scotland, its roots have always remained firmly connected to County Donegal.
It's safe to say the boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and despite the lack of success on the pitch they created memories that will last for and be talked about for years to come. There is already discussions underway regarding the next Donegal Diaspora event.
Another major highlight of March was the Glasgow St Patrick’s Parade. Tir Conaill Harps were proud participants in last year’s inaugural parade, and it is a huge privilege for the club to once again take part in such a fantastic event celebrating Irish heritage in Glasgow.
The parade provides a wonderful opportunity for the club community to come together, celebrate its roots, and showcase the vibrant Irish culture that continues to thrive in the city.
After a hectic pre-season the men started of the defence of their Intermediate league title with a tough fixture against Dalriada. Dalriada have proven a tough opponent in the past, and with it being an away fixture the pressure was on the boys to get of to a good start. Despite the disturbance from storm Dave, the Harps managed to come away with the vital win and headed back to Glasgow with all 2 points after winning with a 10 point margin. Full time score: Dalriada 2-04 Tir Conaill Harps 5-08.