The Gaelic Games family has long prided itself on safeguarding and developing young people, both on and off the field. That responsibility has now been extended into the online world with the launch of the DigiSafe Toolkit, a new digital wellbeing initiative designed to equip young players with the tools to feel safe, respected, and valued in their digital interactions.
In today’s landscape, the online world is as much a part of a young athlete’s life as the training pitch. Social media and digital communication bring unprecedented opportunities, but also very real risks. Recognising this, the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association have collaborated on a programme that seeks to empower rather than alarm, offering practical resources built by and for the community.
At its heart, the initiative introduces the concept of being “digisafe” – the idea that digital wellbeing, like physical fitness, can be taught, developed, and protected.
“We want our young people to enjoy being digitally well and to thrive and flourish online,” explained Professor Fiona Chambers of University College Cork, who has been a strong influence in designing the programme.
“Being ‘digisafe’ means having the tools and knowledge to navigate digital spaces with confidence and empathy for others.”
Fiona is a long-time collaborator with Sport for Business in the areas of children’s sport and Leadership.
Endorsement
The initiative carries the weight of endorsement from the leadership of all three Gaelic Games associations, underlining its importance.
GAA President Jarlath Burns framed the Toolkit as a timely response to modern realities.
“The explosion in the popularity of digital communications means it is now a part of everyday life for many people – including our players and members of all ages and across all of the Gaelic Games codes.”
“It brings tremendous opportunities and advantages but it also presents challenges and in that context I warmly welcome the development of the DigiSafe Toolkit to enable people to use these platforms with confidence, safe in the knowledge that they are equipped to make better and informed decisions to enhance their experience.”
“This is another tangible example of our co-operation with An Cumann Camógaíochta and the LGFA and I am confident that it will have a positive impact.”
“The digital world can be an incredibly rewarding and educational place but it is also fraught with risks and danger,” added Trina Murray, President of the LGFA.
“It is vital that young people are made aware of the threats involved, to ensure that their online experiences are truly rewarding.”
“I welcome yet another wonderful piece of collaborative work between the GAA, the LGFA and the Camogie Association. Our young athletes are incredibly enlightened and intelligent but they may also require some guidance when navigating a world where social media has become increasingly prominent.”
“The DigiSafe Toolkit is a powerful example of how we can extend the values of Gaelic Games into the digital spaces where our young players increasingly live and connect,” said Brian Molloy, President of the Camogie Association.
“By equipping them with the tools to be safe, confident, and kind online, we are not only protecting their wellbeing but also nurturing the kind of leadership and empathy that defines our sports.”
“We are delighted to partner with the LGFA and GAA on this initiative, which reflects our common commitment to supporting players in every aspect of their lives, both on and off the pitch.”
Components
The Toolkit has been developed with two central components:
For Players: An online DigiSafe Module that teaches digital wellness, risk awareness, and the development of healthy digital habits.
For Clubs: A DigiSafe Club Code, created by young people themselves, which sets standards for fostering positive online interactions at community level.
These were not produced in isolation. Instead, a series of design-thinking “playshops” brought players and clubs into the process, ensuring that the Toolkit addresses the lived realities of online life in a way that resonates with its audience.
By moving decisively into the digital space, the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association are making a statement that the wellbeing of their players must be holistic, covering physical, emotional, and now digital health.
It reflects a broader trend across sport and education, where safeguarding is no longer confined to the training ground but must follow young people wherever they connect, communicate, and learn.
The DigiSafe Toolkit is available now to clubs and players across the Gaelic Games community – a timely, community-driven response to a challenge that will only grow in scale and complexity in the years ahead.
Image Credit: Sport for Business
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