27.07.07 - Halifax announce sponsorship of the Gaelic Players Association

Halifax, this week announced a major five-year sponsorship agreement with the Gaelic Players Association (GPA). As part of the sponsorship, Halifax will be the title sponsor for Gaelicperformance, the Gaelic skills training camp, and also for Ireland’s first Gaelic skills coaching software. The sponsorship will commence immediately.

The Gaelicperformance camps were launched in 2005 and since then they have played a key part in developing the Gaelic skills for over 500 children between 11 and 16 years old. Currently the camp is based in Gormanstown College, Co. Meath, but there are plans to expand the initiative around the country.

The Gaelicperformance coaching software is Ireland’s first computer programme developed to better the skills of Gaelic players for all ages. The software will be distributed to over 40,000 coaches throughout Ireland.

Gabriel Bannigan, Head of Retail and Intermediary, Bank of Scotland (Ireland), owners of the Halifax brand in Ireland said, "We are delighted to announce this major sponsorship with the GPA. This sponsorship is a significant investment in the development of young players, enabling Halifax to promote our brand at a grass roots level while supporting players of all levels throughout the thirty-two counties. Both Halifax and the GPA share common ‘people’ values, dedication and commitment, which makes this sponsorship a perfect fit for our brand as our retail network continues to grow. This strategic partnership will give us the opportunity to support the development of Gaelic games in local communities.”

Dessie Farrell, Chief Executive with the Gaelic Players Association, said: “We are delighted to have Halifax on board as a major sponsor. The bank’s ethos of always giving extra, mirrors the ambition and dedication of the GPA in providing for our players. Through our involvement with the Gaelicperformance camps, and also the innovative coaching software developed by one of our members, Dermot McArdle, we strive to provide expert coaching and skills development for all participants of Gaelic Games. Our relationship with Halifax will enable us to explore further opportunities in this area and various other aspects of our games.”
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For further information please contact:

Jamie Kennedy, Senior Manager, Public Relations, Halifax
Tel: 01 267 4084 Mob: 087 418 5085

Denise Farrell, Senior PR Executive, Halifax
Tel: 01 267 4083 Mob: 086 824 4191

Melissa Nugent, Bracken PR
Tel: 01 677 3277 Mob: 087 602 0675

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