Aghaderg GAC

The first recorded evidence of an official GAA Club in Aghaderg was in 1889 when Ballyvarley Shamrocks were one of nine new clubs formed in Down

The earliest recorded Gaelic games played in the parish of Aghaderg dates back to 1903 when a Ballyvarley Hurling team (composing mostly of players from Banbridge) took on a team from Newry. During the next 40 years a series of Gaelic teams came into being and then later disappeared. Despite the lack of continuous Gaelic games the spirit of Cumann Luthchleas Gael was kept alive and well within the parish thanks to the efforts of the people behind these teams in difficult times.

Finally in 1943 Aghaderg GFC was founded and has been in continuous existence ever since. Interestingly in 1946 Ballyvarley HC was formed and hence was born the only club in Down to have a double-barrelled name that reflects the parish name (Aghaderg) and a townland name (Ballyvarley) wherein the hurling tradition was strong.

Now with over 60 continuous years of Gaelic games within the parish of Aghaderg it is hearting to note that despite the lack of honours or silverware the club extends to all the members of its community, young and old, boys and girls, the talented and not so talented, the opportunity to partake within the community and to feel appreciated for the efforts they make. Today the young people of the community have opportunities to partake in football, hurling, camogie, Irish dancing, athletics and scor whilst the older generation take advantages of club facilities to partake in bowls or whist.