Club Chairperson Daniel Burke to Receive GAA President’s Award this week!

By Elaine Coleman

On Friday 30th of January, Daniel will receive the GAA President’s award for outstanding contribution to Gaelic Games abroad. It’s no wonder why! Daniel has always had community at the heart of everything he does. During his teenage years growing up in Drimnagh, he loved nothing more than spending time in his local youth centre, the Bosco, and became a volunteer there at just 13, and going on to become Chairman of a local youth club. His passion has always been helping, inspiring and guiding young people to reach their goals and overcome barriers they might face along the way.

After completing his degree in Health and Social Care, Daniel went on to gain his qualification in primary school teaching and travel to Asia to pursue his teaching career and see the world. He ended up finding the perfect medium to continue his work in community and youth development, the Viet Celts GAA club.

Daniel arrived in Hanoi in 2017 and, within 48 hours of landing, was already at gaelic training with the Viet Celts. It didn’t take long before he was fully involved. Within a few months, he was stepping in to run training sessions when coaches were unavailable and began helping with training for Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, a local charity supporting at-risk youth.

As his involvement grew, Daniel took on the role of PRO for Viet Celts. He threw himself into promoting the club, constantly advertising training on Facebook and talking to anyone who would listen, whether that was on a night out or in a restaurant, about Thursday night Gaelic football. Daniel knew that the Viet Celts was more than just a sports club, it was a community, a lifeline for those newly arrived to Vietnam and a way to bring people of all backgrounds and ages together in a unique way.

Daniel and James distrubing people while they eat, to let them know about training on Thursdays.

After a year away in the Czech Republic completing his NQT, Daniel returned to Vietnam to find that the youth programme had stopped. Rather than accept this, he immediately began planning how to bring it back and expand it. He laid out ambitious ideas at a club meeting. These plans weren’t met with the enthusiasm he had hoped for…’How will we find the kids….where will we train…who will coach them?’ he decided to take matters into his own hands. Confident in the idea that “if you build it, they will come,” he began rebuilding the Viet Celts youth programme from the ground up.

Back when there there were only ten kids and just the one Saturday session!

At the time, he was already running weekly Gaelic football sessions in his school. As he prepared to move jobs, he also launched weekend youth training. The very first Saturday session had six children, two coaches, and torrential rain, but it marked the restart of what would become a thriving youth programme.

When COVID hit and training stopped entirely, Daniel focused on keeping the club and its community connected. He organised running and skipping challenges for adult players, raising money for Blue Dragon to ensure children could continue to access education during lockdown. Five years on, some of those same children have gone on to represent the Viet Celts at international tournaments and travel abroad for the first time in their lives.

Daniel and Chien, his former youth player, winning the South Asian Games Junior Cup

Over the years, Daniel has organised countless fundraisers through the club in support of Blue Dragon, in addition to food drives and blood drives. He set up a scholarship fund for young players from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they can stay in school and further education. He has consistently used the GAA club as a vehicle for positive impact within the wider Hanoi community.

Today, Daniel runs Gaelic football seven days a week for children in Hanoi. The time he dedicates to maintaining and developing the Viet Celts kids is truly incredible. How he keeps track of the pitch bookings, coaches, sign-ups, trips away, parent enquiries and communicating with other youth coaches across Asia, is a mystery!  He still assists with coaching the women’s junior team, stays in regular contact with former players to keep them involved with the club, serves as the Children’s Officer for the Asian County Board and has recently qualified as a Coach Developer. He also played a central role in organising the Asian Youth Championships in Hanoi, which saw 250 children from across Asia competing.

Beyond Hanoi, Daniel has made 12 round trips over the past year to Ninh Binh, 90km each way, to help develop players there. He has also brought children from Hanoi down to coach and support new players, helping to build confidence and ownership within the newer group.

Viet Celts Ninh Binh

Daniel’s contribution to youth Gaelic football in Asia, and particularly in Vietnam, has been sustained, hands-on, and driven by genuine belief in the power of sport and community. His impact can be seen not just in numbers or events, but in the young people who now have access to opportunity, belonging, and a game that might otherwise never have reached them. His dedication to young people and passion for the power of sports is truly incredible. 

While you’re here, you may as well donate to his latest Blue Dragon Fundraiser!

Asian Youth Championships 2025- U6’s

The Viet Celts hosted the Asian Youth Championships at the fantasic facilities in ISPH Park City on November 15th. The Hanoi club had 19 squads in the competition from U6 – U16. This week, we’ll hear from the coaches fortunate enough to guide our young players during the historic championships.

First up is Nikki!

This past weekend marked an exciting milestone for our youngest members of the Vietcelts, as three U6 teams played their very first Gaelic football matches in the Asian Youth Championships held in Hanoi. Competing against a spirited team from Singapore, our teams—the Dragons, Scorpions, and Dinos—brought together a vibrant blend of cultures, with kids from Vietnam, Korea, Ireland, America, and beyond.

It was a long day filled with laughter, learning, and a bit of friendly competition. The children demonstrated remarkable perseverance and resilience. Not only did they enjoy a fantastic day of play, but they also forged new friendships, experienced the essence of teamwork, and honed their Gaelic football skills. The Dragons shone brightly, claiming first place in the cup final against the Scorpions, while the Dinos battled hard to secure 4th place, facing Singapore in the plate final.

This event truly enriched our special community, showcasing the joy and camaraderie that sport brings even to our youngest players.

Hanoi Cúl Camp 2025

Just over two weeks ago, Hanoi hosted Asia’s first Cul Camp. Last week, we heard Lam Phong’s account of the Cúl Camp. This week, we hear from two of our young footballers and their thoughts on the historic camp.

First up, is Minh Ky. Minh Ky is fairly new to Gaelic football but really impressed the coaches during the camp. Coach Eoin was shocked to hear that Minh Ky hadn’t been playing for years. “He’s as good as the kids I’ve seen back home,” said the St. Vincent’s man who has recently departed Hanoi for home.

In Hanoi, children can join a unique camp full of energy and fun. The Viet Celts Cúl Camp lets young players explore new sports from Ireland while enjoying the outdoors and learning in a playful way.

Viet Celts Cúl Camp is a fun and exciting sports camp for kids in Hanoi. At the camp, children learn how to play Gaelic games, which are two popular games from Ireland. You don’t need to know the games before coming — anyone can join and have fun. The coaches are friendly and help all the kids learn new skills like kicking, catching, and learning the important technique.

Each day, there are fun games, team activities, and chances to make new friends. The camp is a great way to stay active, learn something new, and enjoy being outside. It is also a nice way to learn a little about Irish culture. Kids from many different places come together to play, laugh, and enjoy the day. Viet Celts Cúl Camp is all about fun, teamwork, and trying your best.

And to be honest, my thought from this is the Ninh Binh trip. It’s so fun and it brings memories back for me. I mostly remember the moment that I laughed so hard that my tears fell — it was the time that we were in the restaurant for dinner. We did karaoke and danced a lot.

In conclusion, we should have more trips like this to spread Gaelic football in Vietnam as well as around the world.

Next up, Nana tells us about her Ninh Binh trip as part of the Cul Camp. Nana is one of our longest serving players and her commitment and dedication to the game has impressed us all over the years. It was great to get to know Nana off the pitch at the camp. Read below for her account of the Ninh Binh leg of the camp.

Last week, I went to Ninh Binh very happy. In the morning, I got on the bus. At 12 o’clock, I ate lunch. It was very good. At 1 p.m., I drew pottery. 20 minutes later, we arrived at the Ninh Binh hotel. It was very beautiful and nice. At 5:30, I went swimming. It was cool in the pool and it was a sunny day, very hot. In the evening, we went to the restaurant to eat dinner and sing karaoke. At 10 p.m., we went to the bridge and at 11 p.m., we went back to the hotel. At 12 a.m., we went to bed very late.

In the morning, we woke up and went to eat breakfast. After I finished breakfast, we went to rest and then went to the football field. At 1 p.m., we went back to the hotel and packed everything downstairs. Then we got on the bus. At 8 p.m., I went home. It was a great day to go camping with the Irish. I think we will have another trip to travel. And we will see each other in August. Have a very nice day!

Asia’s First Cúl Camp- Through the eyes of Lam Phong

The Viet Celts made history this week by becoming the first team in Asia to host an official Cúl Camp. The children had 4 days filled with Gaelic football. This was no ordinary Cúl Camp though, we added culture, crafts, Karaoke, and craic,

Two time Asian Youth Championships winner, Lam Phong, writes about his experience in Asia’s first Cúl Camp.

This was a wonderful trip to kick off the summer.

It was a meaningful journey where we had a lot of fun and strengthened the bond between all the members. We taught Gaelic to the children in Ninh Binh—and in return, we learned from them too.

One of the highlights was making pottery and painting cups—it was really fun and creative!

The food you organized was also amazing—healthy and safe, which kept us all feeling great throughout the trip.

Then came the hotel. It was fantastic! There was even a huge swimming pool (although I didn’t swim). The rooms were very clean and felt luxurious.

We also got to take part in exciting activities, like playing Gaelic football with both our friends and the local Ninh Binh kids. The water fight was one of the best moments—we had so much fun spraying each other with water, which helped us cool down in the heat.

But most of all, the best part of this camp was simply being in your camp.

It was my first time meeting Mr. Tristen—he was so friendly and funny! I really hope I get the chance to meet him again.

And of course, Mr. Dan—he’s been teaching me Gaelic for the past 3.5 years. He’s always positive, supportive, and there when I need help. To me, he’s a true hero of Gaelic football.

I’m also thankful for all my friends who encouraged me to keep playing and enjoying the game.

I had such a great time on this trip with you and my friends. I truly hope I can join your camp again. Thank you for all the wonderful memories—I really appreciate every moment.

Viet Celts Claim Junior Glory At South Asian Games

The Viet Celts B team travelled from Hanoi to Kuala Lumpur on Friday evening to attend the  annual South Asian Games, which was hosted on Saturday May 17th. Despite one member of  the team misplacing his phone in Hoi Boi International Airport, spirits were high among the  group on Saturday morning as they hailed their Grabs to the excellent Bukit Equestrian facilities,  the home of the 2025 South Asian Games. Donned in their Gucci outfits and sunglasses, the  Viet Celts B team made an impression from the start.  

The Viet Celts group – both the A team and the B team – have been training together for the  past number of months with weekly Thursday training sessions under the humid Hanoi air  challenging all squad members at San Bong Aladdin. Ahead of the tournament, additional  training sessions were held on Mondays, while the Sunday League – a bi-weekly mini Gaelic  football event – also aided with their preparations.  

After arriving and checking out the impressive facilities, both the Viet Celts A team and the Viet  Celts B team warmed up under the shade together for their opening games in the SAGs. Both  games were scheduled to throw in at the same time of 8:50am.  

Up first for the Viet Celts B was a test against Cairde Khmer A of Cambodia. St Vincent’s  clubman, Eoin Mac Neill, was impressive in midfield as he bombed forwards and backwards  throughout the game, emptying the tank. Barcelona’s Tony Vila and Mayo’s Eddie Hennegan  also received crucial competitive minutes and laid off some excellent hand-passes under  pressure. Another Celts player, their centre-back – Mo, who hails from Yemen – also took the  game to the fast-paced Cairde Khmer team, as he steadied the ship in defence. Hanoi-based  Viet Celts player, Chien, also had a chance to rattle the net – but he was unlucky with the Cairde  Khmer keeper pulling off a last-gasp save to deny him. Despite the Viet Celts being on top for  most of the game, Cambodia scored a late point to secure the win. After the game, long-serving  Viet Celts player and the Viet Celts B manager – Tom Cooney – had some thinking to do and he  reassessed his tactics for the next group clash.  

Next up for the Viet Celts was a clash against Singapore C. With all players now used to the  elements and aware of their expectations, the Viet Celts had one thing on their mind: to win and  to get the crucial points on the board. And that’s exactly what they did, winning by five points  helped by a late goal by Conall Sweeny which killed the game. Again, some players from the  Viet Celts impressed throughout this game. Louth man and the Viet Celts captain – Conor  Mulligan – was arguably the most impressive. Playing in the wing-back position, Mulligan was a  driving force behind the team’s win and led by example to help his team secure their first win of  the tournament.  

The Viet Celts came up against Malaysia A in their final group game clash, in what was a quick turnaround following their previous game. A win would see them placed into the Intermediate  semi-final and a loss would place them into the Junior semi-final. This time around, under the  difficult Kuala Lumpur heat, Orang Eire A of Malaysia proved to be too strong for the Viet Celts 

B’s. Despite their best efforts, the Viet Celts were outclassed by the impressive Orang Eire A  team who held onto possession and kicked scores with relative ease, sucking the energy from  the Viet Celts. But not all was lost for the Viet Celts, as a place in the Junior semi-final still  beckoned – and the opportunity to grasp onto silverware along with onboarding some Charz  electrolytes – helped to revitalize the squad as their semi-final clash drew closer.  

In the semi-final, the Viet Celts were drawn against Malaysia B. In the opening half, both the  Viet Celts and attacker John Walsh were struck with a major blow, with the fast-paced Dublin  forward Walsh being forced off due to a head injury. One player that stood out in this game was  Belfast’s Matthew Dundee. In his first-ever competitive GAA tournament, the big Belfast man  steadied the ship in the defence when the Celts were under pressure to maintain their lead.  Although one of their star players went off injured, this didn’t appear to impact the Viet Celts;  instead, they rallied behind each other and the Celts emerged as six point winners, with  silverware just one game away now.  

The Viet Celts met Singapore C in the Junior Cup final. It was a clash between the previous  group members, which saw the Viet Celts emerge as victors in that group game. But, in 15- minute fast-paced games, their previous win against Singapore C meant nothing anymore. This  was a brand new game – with silverware on the line. With long-serving club member, Neil Heiny,  live streaming the game on the club’s Instagram and with silverware on the line, undoubtedly  there was more pressure on the team to impress once again.  

However, the Viet Celts started slow in the Junior Cup final. At the half-time mark after almost  eight minutes of football played, the Viet Celts did not find themselves on the score-board once,  with Singapore up by 0-02 to 0-00 at half-time. They were helped by the ever-impressive Tristan  Diskin who played a major role between the posts with accurate kick-outs and multiple saves to  keep the Celts within touching distance. Misplaced kicks, poor handling, and losing possession  were all evident out the field though. A rousing half-time speech by their forward and club  chairman Dan Burke seemed to both shock and rally the Viet Celts in equal measure. Dublin’s  Dan Burke – now known more so as Viet Dan – spoke about the club, about the players who  were leaving, and about how everyone needed to put in a huge shift for seven more minutes.  His speech certainly left an impression on the players. With more water on board and eager to  impress after Burke’s speech, the Viet Celts were ready for a titanic battle.  

The second-half was more representative of the Viet Celts and what their team stands for. They  increased their work ethic, held onto possession, made excellent tackles and hit some beautiful  scores. One such score came from Ballyshannon’s Conal Sweeny, who terrorised defenders  throughout the tournament. With the ball going over the side-line for a line-ball, Sweeny stood  over the kick from about 40 metres. In a previous clash against Cambodia, Sweeny scored a  beautiful point from a similar position off the inside of his right boot. But this one, under more  pressure and out even further from the goal-line, looked almost impossible. Sweeny, however,  had other ideas. With no options and with his confidence high, he kicked the ball over the black  spot in something that can only be described as Maurice Fitzgerald-esque point. The Viet Celts  were now drawing the game against Singapore. Sweeny’s unbelievable point boosted morale 

even further and spirits were high as the strong Viet Celts support on the sidelines rallied behind  their team to get the winning point.  

The stage was set for a hero. And a hero stood up by the name of Joey Cashell.  

After some excellent work by Mulligan and Sweeny who were attempting to work the score, the  ball was thrown out to the gulag-wearing Cashell. Cashell found himself through on goal – and  although he admittedly went for the 3-pointer, the ball was bulleted over the crossbar, placing  the Viet Celts one point up with just seconds remaining.  

In fact, that was the final kick of the game, with the referee blowing the full-time whistle before  the Signapore C goalkeeper could even retrieve the ball. A rousing reaction was heard  throughout the large equestrian park as the referee blew his full-time whistle. Ironically, despite  the large roar – Cashell did not even know he kicked the winning point, asking the referee “Did I  just kick the winning score, ref?” to the referee’s amusement, as he confirmed that the Viet Celts  had won on a score-line of 0-04 to 0-03.  

The Junior Cup final marked a historic moment for the Viet Celts B team. It was the first-time in  the club’s history that their Men’s B team had emerged with silverware. Their names have now  been etched in history. It was also fitting that Conor Mulligan – the team’s captain – lifted the  trophy in his last game for the Celts, while Tom Cooney – as manager – helped to steer the team  to victory with his last deed for the club before he moves back to Ireland this Summer.  

After the game, we also caught up with captain Conor Mulligan, who highlighted his pride on  bringing back silverware to Hanoi:  

“As the dust has settled and KL is now behind us, I just wanted to share a few words on what  that victory against Singapore meant. Even though we beat them earlier in the group stage, we  were probably considered underdogs for the final without our talisman up front, John Walsh.  Down by 2 at half time, nobody gave up and everyone fought hard for each other right to the  very end. That’s what teamwork is about, and that’s what the Viet Celts B’s showed throughout!  This attitude and belief should be brought forward into the next tournament. Up the B’s,” Conor  Mulligan said after the game.  

Meanwhile, Viet Celts Chairman and winning player, Dan Burke, echoed these sentiments:  

“It was a proud day for the club and I was delighted to see debutants like Matt make a huge  impact in the games. The selfless runs by Eddie were a testament to his hard work for the team  and the improvement that he has made over the course of the year. Conor lifting the cup in his  last game for a club was a joy to see and the perfect end to a stellar day of football,” Dan Burke  said. 

Viet Celts Team – Junior Cup Winners 2025: 

Tristan Diskin (Mayo), Matthew Dundee (Belfast), Mahmood Ebrahim Dheeb Abdo (Yemen),  Joey Cashell (Cork), Conor Mulligan (captain, Louth), Eoin Mac Neill (Dublin), Jason Redmond  (Wexford), Conall Sweeny (Donegal), Toni Vila (Barcelona), Dan Burke (Dublin), James  Worland (Australia), Eddie Hennegan (Mayo), Vu Any Chien (Hanoi). Manager: Tomás Cooney  

By Jason Redmond | Viet Celts GAA 

Luke Kenny’s Head

SAGs Senior report by Brian Smith

Do you have a broken hand? Dislocated pinky or relocated ring fingers will suffice. How about those hamstrings? Ripped to bits or torn off the bone preferable. Or maybe you’re just packing some extra timber after a heavy winter of pints and more pints? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of the above questions, then the SAGGs Viet Celts senior team, 2025, was the place for you.

A sun-drenched Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, played host to a hopeful group of 11 (then 10, then 11 again, then 12 at one point) brave Viet Celts lads. To open the day, an extra hour of sleep and surprisingly few toilets proved insufficient to topple our noisy neighbours from Thailand GAA. The game plan flew out the window and into a nearby field as the VC struggled to get a hold on proceedings. Textbook kickpasses into the Forrest were cut down by a compact Bangkok defensive line. Think “mango, sticky rice” without the mangos or the rice, but with lots of really great defending. Unlike the rice, the ball would not stick; a dewy ground caught the cobwebs off-guard and the game slipped away from our tender control. A fully deserved red card for Eoin Cooney topped off an abysmal morning and served as just desserts for the not-so-narrowly defeated men from Hanoi. Thailand won by 5 at the final whistle. After much negotiation from a club representative, the red card was rescinded with a promise of free Guinness for the referee at the evening’s festivities.

A few bananas and an iced coffee later, a now-awake, mobile VC army took to the field against one of the Singaporeseses (A or B, who knows?) Refreshed, energised and motivated by the wise words of a wiley head coach, the Viet Celts started to get the ball rolling. Tight in defense, hard-working up front and a never-say-die attitude up the middle saw things starting to come good for the VC side. Fierce tackles from Declan “The Hitman” Hyland swung the momentum of the game, along with some smoothly taken scoring opportunities from the Petronas Towers up front. Big hits, silky inter-play and a desire to do the right thing on the ball brought home our first point of the SAGGs tournament. Special mention to Eoin Cooney for not getting sent off in this game. Viet Celts 1:5 – Singapore 2:2. 

Next came the other of the Singaporseses. A must win game against some familiar faces. Singapore’s nippy forwards started the scoring with a piledriver into the corner of the net. The Celts sprung into life from there and created many scoring opportunities, shaving the top of the crossbar like Hiney with the Wilkinson’s sword on a Saturday night. Conor McCahill came the closest of all, rattling the upright and sending the ball fifty yards back towards home. The Viet Celts played great football in this game and had the beating of a shaken Singapore team, but missed goal chances proved to be our downfall in the end. Viet Celts 0:4 – Singapore 1:5.

Our Vietnamese counterparts lay in wait next, the Saigon Gaels. A crate of beer on the line, the Viet Celts started the stronger with some excellent shooting from the reliables of our forward line. The strong start fell to pieces after the long kickouts of the Gaels unlocked the VC defense. Tired bodies and minds gave up two soft goals, an insurmountable deficit despite the best efforts of our goal scoring attackers. The old enemy ran out as winners in the end with a scoreline of 3:4 to 1:5. ‘A Lannister always pays their debts’ and the crate of beer went to Saigon.

And so the sun set on another fun-filled day in Bukit Kiara. Normally home to the peak of the equine gene pool, now home to 11 old stallions closer to the pasture than the paddock. A word of thanks to the younger bucks of the squad who have run their last race in the blue and black of the Viet Celts jersey; Donal O’Neill, Conor McCahill and Eoghan Finn. You wore the jersey with pride and gave your all for the club. You gave your best on the pitch and never took a backwards step. You will live long in the history books of this great club. This club will always be your home, no matter where the greener pastures take you. 

P.s. The Journal Hotel, you were class; please sponsor me.   

2024/2025 End of Season Review: Youth Edition

Our Blue Dragon team in Bangkok from the Asian Youth Championships

This season was one of the busiest seasons we’ve ever had at the Viet Celts youth team.

It was so busy in fact that I can’t actually remember half of it so I asked ChatGPT to remind me.

Our biggest highlight was the Asian Youth Championship in Bangkok, where we brought multiple teams and came home with incredible results: the U11s won both the Cup and Plate, the U13s made the Cup Final, and our U15s and U17s both won their divisions. These achievements were not only a testament to the players’ hard work but also to the depth of talent and teamwork across the club.

We worked hard to ensure access for all — offering scholarships and travel support, including allowing older, responsible players to travel with coaches when needed. Our post-tournament awards night was a great way to celebrate every player’s contribution.

Back in Hanoi, we kept a strong weekly rhythm: Saturday sessions focused on skill-building, particularly with our growing 7–9-year-old group, while Sunday sessions continued with Blue Dragon boys and Gaelic4Girls. We also launched regular training in Ninh Binh, building a new local branch of the club supported by volunteers.

We’ve made great strides in sustainability, developing a junior coaching pathway and preparing to expand training to include a local orphanage next season. Our presence across eight international schools, consistent training, and community outreach earned us a nomination for Asian Club of the Year.

Special thanks go to The Snug and Al Frescos for their ongoing sponsorship and to everyone who helped make this year such a success.

It’s been a big year for the youth program — and we’re just getting started.

The Season in Numbers:

1 Asian Club of the Year

2 away day trips (Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City)

4 Trophies at the AYC

7 days a week of youth Gaelic football

8 international schools training kids weekly

100+ children have taken part in inter school blitzes over the

1224km spent travelling to and from Ninh Binh

An unknown number of footballs burst or lost.

That’s the season according to ChatGPT anyway. Doesn’t sound like me at all. ChatGPT needs to learn some Dublinese. It’s a fairly brief but accurate summary of our year. Although, my biggest highlights aren’t the wins in the AYC. Obviously the children winning competitions is a great experience for them, but the highlights for me are the weekly sessions, the increased number of girls playing Gaelic football, Chien coaching the Blue Dragon boys, more volunteers coming down to help on the weekends. Working with Podge, Stephen, and Aine to put together a huge blitz was another one of the stand outs for me.

Podge presenting one of his students with the best sportsperson award

The Ho Chi Minh and Thailand trips were great and very memorable but unfortunately we can only bring small groups to them. I hate the idea that some people are left out for various reasons. That is why I am delighted that we will be hosting the Asian Youth Championships in November. It is a chance for all of our kids who have been working so hard to get a chance to show their skills off to children from around Asia.

Coming up even sooner than that, is Asia’s first ever Cul Camp! Ngoc Anh and I have planned a very fun camp for mid-June which only has a few spaces left! And just before that, is our end of season tournament. I am absolutely gutted that it’ll be Sean’s last tournament with the Celts.

Unfortunately, Sean is leaving for the motherland this summer. The club won’t be the same without him. We have expanded so much since he started. Sean has shown 100% dedication to the Celts ever since he came to Hanoi. From organizing football deliveries, to being at every session and away trip. He has added so much to the club with his great sense of humour, his positive outlook, and his determination to get the best out of every player. The whole Farrell family have been an absolute blessing to everyone they’ve met in Hanoi. Irene has been a ray of sunshine, always willing to help out, organized some great dancing sessions and absolutely mad for the craic.  Luka and Cara will be huge losses to the team here. Their teammates will be devastated to hear that they are going. We hope they will be taking the Dan Coloe approach and will be returning for every year to join us for tournaments. On behalf of the whole club, I would like to thank the Farrell family for all that they have done. Their impact will be felt for many years to come!

One thing ChatGPT got wrong was the Ninh Binh situation. It is not supported by local volunteers. We have been trying to get a local coach to take the team down there and through a variety of different ways, we’ve been let down. The first candidate came a half an hour late and left a half an hour early to a 90 minute session. The next time we went down, the coach told us at very short notice that he couldn’t make it. On our most recent trip, the person was all set to do it. We had a video call with him before to make sure he understood the task, but on the very day of the training, he ghosted us. It gave me a little sample of what I’m sure single life is like. No replies, blocked us! We have been down 5 or 6 times now and still don’t have a coach. But we’ve done the sessions anyway and the kids have really taken to the game. I have no doubt that once we get a regular coach in Ninh Binh, these young ballers will be competing with the very best at the AYCs. If you happen to know a non flakey person in Ninh Binh who could coach them, feel free to hit me up.

ChatGPT also forgot that we had Tristen over. And so did I until I was looking for some photos and saw his face in loads of them. But Tristen can’t be mad, he forgot to go to Singapore Cubs training on Sunday. Tristen has done some great work during his time in Hanoi(on top of winning the SAGs Junior cup with us!). He has laid down the foundations to get us into some new schools next year. It is up to us to capitalise on that next year! We have the chance to make the Hanoi AYC even bigger than the SAGs. I’m hopeful that other teachers will be inspired by what Stephen, Eoghan, Podge, Aine, and Tara have built in their schools and join us on November 15th in making the AYC the biggest one yet!

Finally, I’d like to give a big thank you to everyone who has helped out on Saturdays, everyone who has run clubs in their schools. The club has seen unprecedented growth and we couldn’t have done it without you. Phuong, Brid, Ngoc Anh, and John Shoulders deserve special mentions for their consistent commitment to kids training. A few years from now when we are retired, the Khois, Phongs, Tungs, and Mys will be replacing us. The effort you put in coaching them will be repaid tenfold in the future.

Half time team talk at the AYC. Definitely more polite than my team talk at the SAGs

Tristen in Ninh Binh- The two of us went down with no translator. One of the hardest sessions we’ve ever done but we got through it!

A rare Royal City training during TH School’s midterm break

The U11s brining home the gold after our annual trip to Na Fianna

The Green and Red of Mayo- Mayo Day 2025

Hanoi To Host Asian Youth Championships on November 15th.

The Asian County Board is proud to announce that the 2025 Asian Youth Championship (AYC) will take place on Saturday, November 15th, hosted this year at the International School ParkCity Hanoi (ISPH). This marks the third time the AYC will be held in Hanoi, Vietnam, and excitement is already building among clubs and communities across the continent.

A flagship event in the youth Gaelic football calendar, the AYC brings together hundreds of young athletes aged 6 to 18 for a day of spirited competition, cultural exchange, and celebration of the values at the heart of the GAA. Following the huge success of last year’s tournament, this year promises to be the biggest yet, with teams from across Asia preparing to descend on Hanoi.

With multiple age categories, boys’ and girls’ divisions, skills challenges, and a big after party, the AYC offers something for everyone—players, coaches, and spectators alike.

“This year’s championship in Hanoi is a major milestone for youth Gaelic games in Asia,” said Daniel Burke, Children’s Officer of Asia. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible progress being made by clubs across the region and to give our young players the chance to shine on an international stage.”

The rivalries have built up over the past three years between the clubs. It will be a chance for the players to show how much they have developed since their last encounter in Bangkok

Registration for clubs and schools will open soon, and more details will follow regarding accommodation options, schedules, and off-field activities. Follow us on [insert social media or website] for updates as the countdown to AYC 2025 in Hanoi begins.

Mark your calendars—November 15th at ISPH is the place to be!

The SAGs: Ladies Edition

Who Will Sleepless Shaw Shank for her Redemption?

It’s been 6 months since our last WordPress entry. Did we forget the password? Did we do nothing for 6 months. No. We were just so busy doing stuff that we forgot to write about it.

The South Asian Games this year however, were something we could not go without writing about. First up in our series of SAGS write ups is Sarah Shaw. A woman who has settled in very well since she burst onto the scene of Celts life. A very indecisive woman at times. I didn’t know she was playing until I got on the plane. However, she was the first to put her hands up and give SAGs vlogging a go. Read below to see her account of last weekend’s South Asian Games.

Ah, Kuala Lumpur – the land of humidity and apparently elite Gaelic football played by a squad of absolute legends (and one goalie still emotionally recovering).

Let’s set the scene: The Viet Celts ladies took to the pitch conceding only three points in the first three matches. THREE. Let’s shout that from the rooftops forever more (or the helipad?) Read on to find out how it ended. 

Maura, our nervous wee queen, prepped for her final tournament with enough bathroom trips to warrant medical curiosity – but you’d never know it once she hit the pitch. Cool, classy, unshakable – basically the definition of Gaelic Football class once her bladder had emptied.

Grace brought goal after goal, but not necessarily grace as her intense internal rage shone through at the fact this ISN’T SOCCER!!. On the outside, calm and collected. On the inside? Slightly furious ballerina. And we love her for it.

Marah wore many hats: sideline hype woman, Peter Manning’s #1 fan, international food smuggler and the unbelievable ability to be hungover a week later yet still be a goal scoring machine. If she ever ran for president, we’d all vote twice.

Eimear, was out there yonking balls from the opposition like they were the Saigon Senior A team. Was it always legal? Look, we don’t ask questions when the ref is hypnotized by your good looks. 

Ryley, ever the tactician, dyed her hair blue to literally blend in with the jerseys. What’s that flying blur on the wing? A shadow? A ghost? No. It’s Ryley doing sideline sprints like a sneaky Smurf ninja.

Emer made her debut after leaving Hai Phong and played like she never left the womb without a ball in hand. Meanwhile, Mel – our first German all-star brought skill, her first goal and undeniable European flair! 

Emma, our beloved American convert, declared it “the best game ever” and is now a fully initiated Celt. Green card pending. 

Ellie and Molly should’ve been taking it easy for their upcoming gym torture (sled pushes and lots of running), but instead, they were on fire – running, scoring, screaming with the kind of chaotic energy usually reserved for karaoke or the hoi! 

Rebekah led the team with a warm-up drill that was part prep, part interpretive dance, all heart. She also took about 3000 unflattering photos – but it’s about the memories.

Ellie French did what Ellie French does: made us prettier with glitter and sass, and made every other team wish they were Viet Celts. Honestly, we sparkled so hard it was borderline unfair. 

And then… there’s me, Sarah. I’d love to give you a breakdown of each match as I should have been watching from the goal but I spent most of it chatting up two elderly umpires behind the goal who definitely said they’d meet me for a drink later (spoiler: they didn’t – grrr). I had a great time up until the FINAL 10 SECONDS when some whippit of a player caught my kick out and had the audacity to score the winning goal. Sorry everyone again but I hope the consolidation is that I haven’t slept the same since due to it being a recurring nightmare. 

So yes, the ball might’ve slipped past us in the dying seconds, but we left KL with hangovers and as Ladies Junior Cup Runners Up and I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Up the Celts. Always. 💚🏐✨

Club of the Year 2024

It is my honour to announce that the Viet Celts have won Club of the Year for the second time in our history! This achievement reflects the culmination of years of hard work by the many dedicated individuals who make our club what it is today. The positive atmosphere within the club this year has been phenomenal and this weekend in Bangkok was a fine example of it!

Lauren and Nikki’s sports day at the start of the school year was a fantastic way to bring in new people and has really set the tone for the season. Joey’s revival of the Sunday League was another highlight. It provided a great opportunity for members to interact with people they might not typically connect with. The team captains did an excellent job motivating everyone and ensuring strong participation each round.

Celts in the Community

Thanks also goes to our club members in Hanoi and further afield who supported our community efforts this year. Thanks to their support, two young Vietnamese will be supported through 4 years of education.

When Typhoon Yagi caused devastation in Hanoi, our club members were straight to action. Ryley and Ellie played a leadership role in the clean up efforts and were supported by plenty of other Celts.

The Coaching Team

With all the socialising and events, you might forget that we are a sports club. But what keeps the club ticking week in week out is our dedicated coaches. They put their time in before and after sessions to make sure they run smoothly. Our coaches have done a tremendous job this year, creating an environment which challenges experienced players and is inclusive of beginners. The amount of debutants at the AGGs is testament to their hard work. Marah, Neil, Jason, Lauren, Celine, Natasha and everyone who has supported our regular coaches can be very proud of this weekend’s achievement.

Hurling and Camogie have thrived this year with thanks to the relentless efforts of our passionate coaches. Katie and Phuong put together a great day of small ball in September and the load has been shared on weekly sessions. Brian, Hiney, Celine, John and Eoghan have given up their time to keep the small ball momentum going. Gearoid has fought the good fight over the years to keep the game going and with the new arrivals over the past year, his hard work is seeing its rewards.

Youth Football 7 Days a Week

The youth program has gone from strength to strength thanks to the hard work of our coaches who make it down every week. Sean Farrell, John Shoulders, and Phuong are 3 guaranteed familiar faces that the kids see every week. They have helped us grow the team with consistency. Lauren, Aine, Brian, Elaine, and Eoin Cooney also regularly come down and help out when they can. Our trips to Ho Chi Minh and Bangkok were highlights of the year for some of our younger members. Our dedicated coaches gave up their free time to bring kids on their first trips without parents.

Another big part of our youth success is thanks to Ngoc Anh, who allows us to communicate with our non-English speaking members and their parents. She is kept very busy on Zalo and at both sessions on the weekend. Having her as part of the team has allowed us to be more inclusive to local players.
Tho is another vital part of our youth program. Without him, there is no way our Sunday sessions with Blue Dragon could happen. He is there rain or shine every week with a positive attitude and a passion to provide the local children of Phuc Tan with regular Gaelic sessions and the opportunities that come with them.

Podge, Hiney, Brian, Aine, James, Eoghan, Stephen, Grace, Donal and Brian are spreading the game to the international schools of Hanoi. The regular games between the schools are keeping the older kids interested in the game and helps them hone their skills for the AYC.

Thanks to the dedicated committee who have overseen everything I’ve mentioned above and the other countless things they have been involved with. Ryley and Eoghan have worked well with the social committee to organise great events to bring our club together. Eoghan, Gearoid, and Eoin have played pass the parcel with the Hurling/Camogie officer role but have always ensured our hurlers had a voice.

Jason and Joey have given their all to the club over the year. From organising jerseys to drafting players with ducks, there is hardly a time when I’m not chatting to these two about the Celts(and long may it continue). Joan, Coffey, and Neil are fresh on to the committee but have gotten off to a great start already.

Phuong deserves her own page, let alone her own paragraph. Everything you see above, she had a hand in it. Booking pitches, organising vendors, monitoring the finances, the list goes on. Without Phuong, we wouldn’t have progressed to the level we’re at now. If you want to show your appreciation to her, have your money ready after training.

Also, a big thank you to our club sponsors AFG and The Snug for their continued support which allows us to keep the game accessible to local and international players alike.

If you’ve managed to make it this far, fair play to you! Long story short, thanks to everyone who make the Viet Celts and our time in Hanoi what it is!