Picking the best GAA venues in the county
Carrigtwohill GAA Club's main pitch.
NOW that the Cork club championships are almost finished, there have been so many thrilling games over the course of this championship season, and it’s thanks to this job, that we as reporters get to enjoy them all.
Going to games takes us to various clubs around the county, and so here I’m going to be discussing the venues I’ve enjoyed the most and ranking the top five.
Obviously, there are clubs that won’t be considered for the fact I haven’t been there, and I’m not going to include Páirc Uí Chaoimh and Páirc Uí Rinn either.
Aghada’s main pitch in Rostellan is certainly one of the best, with it placed right next to the water. It’s hard to beat on a nice day, and with their new digital scoreboard it’s made even better.
With the crowd so close to the action it builds a great atmosphere, and it’s certainly one of the nicest grounds around. It’s not too difficult to get to, and it’s certainly one of my favourites.
This is specifically on Páirc Uí Chonaill, the main pitch in Cobh. What makes it so enjoyable to watch games here is that it’s often windy, which instantly makes shooting from range a challenge for both teams.
The unpredictability of the wind makes it a real test of an individual player’s quality. With a table and chair always provided by the club, it’s great being able to sit between the two benches and enjoy a quality game of hurling or football with an excellent atmosphere.
Erin’s Own takes third place, for several reasons. The quality of their main pitch in Caherlag is top tier, there’s a quality scoreboard and with a table and chair always provided, it makes the reporting side of things very straightforward.
Not only that, but with the club shop serving coffee on a matchday it can be a really great experience. Those at the club are polite and always willing to help, and it’s such a positive place to be at.
The difference between first and second place was minimal, but I’ve gone with Carrigtwohill for number two.
Carrig is easily one of my favourites. It’s easy to get in and out of the area and the main pitch can be viewed from upstairs in the clubhouse, and with coffee, tea and cakes available, it’s a great place to work.
Sitting on the sideline with a table and chair is great too, especially when there’s a good crowd and the sun is out.
Located in what is undoubtedly a really nice spot in west Cork, Bandon is always a great place to go to. It’s made even better by the pristine quality of their pitch, the people, and the clubhouse that provides an excellent viewing area.
Reporting from upstairs is great, you get a clear view of the field, and with the crowd below, you’re not too far from the atmosphere.
With tea, coffee, cakes, and sandwiches galore, it doesn’t get any better.
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