01
Set the language standard
“We don't use that language here” is enough to interrupt a slur or stereotype. Apply the same standard in training, group chats, stands, travel and social events. Do not wait for a gay player to object.
Print · discuss · adapt
A practical ally pack for your club
Five short cards for ordinary moments that decide whether a gay player feels able to stay in the game.
02
Protect confidentiality
Ask: “Who else knows, and what would you like me to do?” Do not tell another player, coach, partner or officer without permission unless a genuine safety or safeguarding duty requires a different route.
03
Make first contact easier
Name a current person who can answer privately. State the code, team, age group, training pattern, membership route and what a newcomer should expect. Let the person decide what personal information to share.
04
Respond without taking over
Check immediate safety. Ask what the affected person wants. Record direct facts if requested. Explain the available route and its confidentiality limits. Do not turn their identity into a public lesson.
05
Check the next session
Follow up after training, travel or the next match. Keep selection, feedback, facilities, lifts and invitations consistent. Inclusion has failed if the person who raised a concern quietly disappears.
KEEP
Useful routes
- GGA.ie support pathway: gga.ie/support-pathway.html
- Private incident note: gga.ie/private-incident-note.html
- LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539
- Samaritans: 116 123
- Emergency: 112 or 999
Check live service pages and current governing-body procedures before relying on a saved copy.
How to use this: discuss the cards with adult teams and officers, then add your club's current named contacts and official procedures. For underage activity use the mandatory Gaelic games safeguarding material.