Hurling is believed to the oldest and fastest field sport in the world. Hurling players use a stick – or hurley – to strike the ball, called a sliotar, which is similar in size to a hockey ball.

The ball can be struck on the ground or in the air – with the hurley or boot – but it must be lifted off the ground with your hurley. The ball can be carried in your hand for a maximum of four steps. After that you can bounce the ball on the hurley and back to your hand, but you cannot catch the ball more than twice. Players get around this by balancing the ball on their hurley while running.

Players can block an opponent’s strike using their hurley. They can also hook a player’s hurley as he is attempting the strike the ball.

A goal is scored when the ball crosses the goal line between the posts and under the crossbar, while a point is scored when the ball goes over the crossbar. A goal is the equivalent of three points.

Hurling is Ireland’s ancient national sport – a thrilling combination of speed, skill, and courage that’s often described as “the fastest game on grass.”

Vienna Gaels Hurling welcomes players of all levels to experience this unique sport. Whether you’re from a hurling stronghold like Cork or Kilkenny, or you’ve never held a hurley before, there’s a place for you on our team.

Training Schedule

• Day: Monday
• Time: 18:00 – 20:00
• Location: Meiereistraße 20, 1020 Wien (near Stadion, U2 line)
• Equipment provided: Hurleys and sliotars (balls)
• Required: Helmet (can be purchased or borrowed from the club)

What is Hurling?

Hurling is a 3,000-year-old Irish sport played with a wooden stick (hurley) and a small ball (sliotar). Players can catch, strike, or run with the ball, creating an incredibly fast and skillful game.

Often compared to field hockey or lacrosse, hurling is unique in its combination of catching, ground play, and striking the ball at high speeds.

About Our Squad

Our hurling team competes across Central Europe, taking on clubs from Germany, the Netherlands, and beyond. We’re a competitive side that also welcomes absolute beginners.

We provide coaching for new players and will teach you everything from how to hold a hurley to executing the perfect strike.

Equipment

• Hurley: Provided for training; can purchase your own (€40-80)
• Helmet: Mandatory for matches; available through club (€60-100)
• Sliotar: Provided for training
• Clothing: Regular sports gear is fine

Getting Started

Never played before? No problem! Come to training and we’ll start you with the basics. Most of our players learned from scratch in Vienna.

Upcoming Events

Check the Events page for fixtures, tournaments, and training sessions.