Support Us Button Widget

Catch the Gaelic game of hurling in Madison, WI

We’re breaking down the Irish sport of hurling including its rules and where you can catch a game.

A worn white ball with curved stitching like a baseball lies on a pitch of sunny grass.

The ball is called a sliotar, pronounced “slit-er.”

Photo by Adrian via Pexels

Table of Contents

There are many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but have you heard about hurling? No, not that kind of hurling. We’re talking about the Irish sport.

What is hurling?

This ancient Gaelic game is the national sport of Ireland and looks a bit like field hockey played with a baseball.

Players use a wooden stick to pass and score points by shooting through the opponent’s goalpost. Players use the stick (called a hurl or hurley) to hit and balance the ball (called a sliotar).

Want to learn all the official rules? Check out the US Gaelic Athletic Association (USGAA).

Get involved

Whether you want to hurl yourself onto the field or be a spectator, the Hurling and Football Club of Madison has you covered. Scope out the competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map.

More from 608today
Mad City and Wisconsin will be well represented on the world stage at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics — these are some Olympians to watch.
Grab your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 10 farmers markets around Madison.
A turn of phrase here, a recognizable Madison nod there — these craft beers found around Mad City take local pride seriously.
From Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26, 2024, we’re shining a spotlight on the vibrant drink scene in Madison; check out our map of local drink deals.
Explore these dog-friendly places in Madison — from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, swim, and stay the night with your four-legged friends.
Volunteer with Healthy Food For All at local farmers’ markets.
If you’re trying to get more involved in the community, here’s where you can start.
Sponsored
Huxley Yards is set to open in 2026.
The Wisconsin DNR is urging boaters to be safe over the holiday.