Gaelic football on the French Riviera: a dream come true
It was the eve of the 24th September 2015 when two ambitious Eagles met up at the Parc des Bouillides, Valbonne, with a gaelic football for the first time. They both dreamt of creating a new club here on the Côte d’Azur, to play this magical sport in their new home. That evening they kicked points between a pair of poplar trees. The goalkeeper was a bin.
Come December 2015, the Azur Gaels had obtained French Association status and that of official club affiliated to the GAA in Ireland and the FFG in France. Ma Nolan’s, the famous Irish pub chain, came on board as a sponsor. The team had even played its first ever match, against neighbouring GF Provence. The Irish media got wind of their story, and for the first time, it was the Côte d’Azur making the gaelic football headlines in France – and in Europe.
Today, the club represents a genuine melting pot of sport and culture, of French and Irish, of women and men, kids and adults. The club boasts forty or so members, and is open to all, with adult training on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and kids sessions on Saturdays. We offer a host of other activities too… So come and experience our exceptional club life.
Men’s team
The men’s squad is the most ample of the three categories. The guys train:
- Wednesday nights at 18.30 at Stade des Bouillides, Valbonne
- Saturdays at 12.00 at Stade des Bouillides, Valbonne
Please contact us for more information.
Ladies team
The ladies squad is recruiting and the team needs you! The girls train:
- Wednesday nights at 18.30 at Stade des Bouillides, Valbonne
- Saturdays at 12.00 at Stade des Bouillides, Valbonne
Please contact us for more information.
Youth team
A youth structure is currently being created within the club, led by Charley, our Youth Officer. Our long-term goal is to organise friendly matches against other youth teams in France and even Europe. Please contact us for more information about our specific youth sessions.