Croke Park Stadium has officially unveiled two major accessibility initiatives aimed at making match days more inclusive for people with additional needs: a new sensory room and an audio descriptive commentary service for blind and vision-impaired spectators.
Located within the GAA Museum, the new sensory room – named Cú Chulainn’s Corner – offers a quiet, safe space for individuals with sensory processing needs or anyone who may require a break from the noise and crowds on busy match days.
The facility has been specially designed to offer comfort and support for children and adults who may find the stadium environment overwhelming.
GAA President Jarlath Burns welcomed the launch, noting its alignment with the Association’s inclusive values.
“Croke Park is the most iconic sporting venue in Ireland and a place where dreams come true,” he said.
“It is also at the pinnacle of our manifesto dedicated to a GAA Where We All Belong. That is why the addition of a special sensory room is in keeping with our commitment that Gaelic games are forever a part of who we are — and that means making our national stadium accessible to as many as possible, whatever their needs.”
The initiative has been welcomed by advocacy organisations. Deputy CEO of ChildVision, Sinead Fitzpatrick, praised the development, saying: “We are delighted to see Croke Park take this important step toward inclusion.”
“The new sensory room will make a real difference for children who are visually impaired and those with additional needs and their families. It offers a calm and supportive environment, allowing families to enjoy match days together knowing there’s a safe, accessible space available.”
In a further boost to accessibility, Croke Park has also announced the introduction of an Audio Descriptive Commentary (ADC) service for blind and vision-impaired supporters.
The service is being delivered in partnership with Vision Sports Ireland, the national governing body for promoting sport among those who are blind or vision impaired.
Vision Sports Ireland will serve as the official training provider for this new commentary initiative, which is designed to ensure that visually impaired fans can enjoy the full sensory experience of attending live games.
Sara Mc Fadden, Partnerships and Operations Coordinator at Vision Sports Ireland, said the partnership marks a “significant step forward” in promoting inclusive sport. “This collaboration ensures that the full experience of a match day at Croke Park is available to all.”
Jarlath Burns also reflected on Croke Park’s long history of broadcasting innovation, referencing the 1926 All-Ireland semi-final between Kilkenny and Galway, the first full radio broadcast of a sporting event in Europe. “We are delighted to offer audio descriptive commentary to ensure that the passion and drama of our games can be enjoyed by as many people as possible,” he said.
Both services are now live and will be available to spectators at upcoming fixtures in the stadium.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
Check out Sport for Business coverage of Inclusion
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
The developments reflect the stadium’s broader commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all supporters can enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of live games in a welcoming and supportive environment.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
Dublin return to Croke Park for the first time in this season’s Championship against Armagh on Sunday June 1st.
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