Catch the Gaelic game of hurling in Chattanooga, TN

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

Unfortunately, it looks like we don’t have an official USGAA hurling clubyet. That means the sliotar is in our court (so to speak) and the best way to get your hands on a hurley is by starting your own club. Scope out the future competition, as well as other Gaelic sports, with the USGAA’s interactive map.

More from NOOGAtoday
Prepare for spring weather in Chattanooga, TN with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
The 9-bedroom Colonial Revival sits just blocks from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
The Chattanooga Lookouts kick off the season on April 14 at their brand-new stadium — here’s what to know about Opening Week, parking, and food options.
Painting is finished and tarps are down as crews enter the final phase.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
Two upcoming auctions will give Chattanooga Lookouts fans the chance to bid on seats, signage, memorabilia, and more from AT&T Field.
City leaders will showcase startups, smart traffic tech, and quantum innovation during Chattanooga Day at the Austin, TX festival.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in the Scenic City.
From adrenaline-pumping coasters to seasonal foods and immersive live shows, Dollywood is bringing fresh thrills and flavors this spring.
She amassed thousands of antiques and envisioned a museum for them; after her death, the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts opened to preserve her collection. But that’s just part of her story.