First visit to Croke Park: Hurling Semi-Finals 2013

Ready for Dublin v Cork with Diarmuid

Last Sunday I went to Croke Park for the first time. Dublin's Men's hurling team was in the semi-finals against Cork. The easiest way for explaining how big this match was, is by comparing it to Georgia Tech getting to a BCS game for the first time in 60 years. Then, to add anticipation and excitement, the game is in the county you're from and inside the main GAA facility.

For more information about what the "GAA" is, click here!
As well as here for Dublin GAA information :). And for a bit more information on what hurling is, search this.
The town was decked in flags for both teams, jerseys, pubs packed, streets flooded with tourists, locals, and folks going about their own business on a sunny afternoon, and then the lucky ones set to go to 70 minutes of hurling combat. Dublin played a great match, but sadly lost to Cork. The stadium was packed with fans for both teams. The sportsmanship between fans and athletes was unlike anything I've experienced at any sporting event in The States. For starters, the fans could co-exist in the same seating areas (for the most part).
You won't find that too nicely at an SEC football game. (Shout out for college football in the GA! Go Georgia! ;) #dawgsforever)

The most touching thing for me, even as big of a let down it was after Dublin lost, no one left the stadium. And while the players were shaking hands and clearing out, there were fans still cheering and doing the "Dublin cheers" until it was done. These athletes aren't just prized athletes among the country: They are the teachers, accountants, business executives, doctors, and neighbors. Regular men working hard and training in their leisure time. And on a really good day, playing in a semi-final game at Croke Park with 80,000+ fans.

I really liked the match. In my check-list for enjoying athletic events, there's tailgating, sunshine, cool breezes, great brew and food, and an exciting game. All of the above were accomplished. So, I had fun! I got to join the hurling madness, sport a jersey, cheer, stand inside Croke Park for the first time, and it all held my wee sports fan attention span.Glory, Glory to 70 minute matches with continuous action! Stay strong, Dubs! To get an idea of what it was like inside the stadium, check out the video I shared on my private facebook page!

COME ON YOU BOYS IN BLUE! GO DUBLIN!

Cheers, M