Irish Life renews GAA Healthy Clubs sponsorship through to 2030

Irish Life has extended its sponsorship of the GAA Healthy Clubs Programme through to 2030, reinforcing a long-term commitment to community health and wellbeing across Ireland.

The renewal follows the 2025 Steps Challenge, which involved 1,100 GAA clubs and 39,000 participants, who collectively logged over seven million kilometres of walking.

Participants increased their active days per week from 4.5 to 5.5 and reported a 16 per cent rise in community connection compared with the previous year.

Stacey Machesney, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Irish Life, said the renewal reflects the programme’s measurable impact and the ongoing need for initiatives promoting movement, stress management, and social connection.

GAA President Jarlath Burns noted the extension as a significant endorsement of the organisation’s Community and Health work and highlighted the positive effects for clubs and communities.

Irish Life CEO Declan Bolger explained that the sponsorship decision was guided by measurable outcomes, with participants recording health scores above the national average.

Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs ambassador Rory O’Connor described its role in fostering mental wellbeing and social connection, especially during winter, as a powerful way for clubs to bring people together inclusively.

The Healthy Clubs Programme positions GAA clubs as hubs for physical activity, mental wellbeing, and social inclusion beyond traditional sporting roles.

Registration is now open for the 2026 Steps Challenge, free for residents aged 18 and over on the island of Ireland, with progress tracked via Irish Life’s MyLife app.

Explore how Irish Life’s sponsorship continues to drive health and community impact across Ireland in the full story.

Photo credits to GAA’s official website