<p>By Professor Marie Coleman
May 19 marks the bicentenary of the birth of Thomas William Croke, Archbishop of Cashel and first patron of the Gaelic Athletic Association, after whom the association’s headquarters and principal stadium is named. Our knowledge of Croke’s life owes much to the biography, Croke of Cashel:</p>
As the international headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), Croke Park is home for the indigenous Irish sports of huffing and Gaelic football.
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Twenty years ago, it seemed only politicians and priests had plastic molded seats. Twenty years ago, under-12s were thrown over the turnstiles, no tickets necessary. And 20 years ago the concession stands definitely did not sell “Chicken Tikka on Pita Bread.”
From my seat behind the Canal End goalposts, it seemed the only thing Croke Park 2001 has in common with Croke Park 1981 is the potential to break your heart.
As the international headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), Croke Park is home for the indigenous Irish sports of huffing and Gaelic football. Located on Dublin’s Northside, it has been the setting for almost every GAA championship since before the founding of the Irish State. It has no parallel in American team sports, whose championships are played in different stadiums and cities every year. If your team is traveling to play “Croker” in the autumn, you know you’re in for a big day.