Our range of hurling sticks are designed for all levels of play, and each hurley is handcrafted by a master hurley maker Padraig, in County Clare.
Embrace the spirit of County Clare with these traditionally crafted hurleys.
Known for their distinctive design, our Cork style hurleys offer a unique playing experience.
With a focus on balance and control, Galway style hurleys are perfect for precision play.
Hurling, often described as the fastest field sport in the world, boasts a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of Ireland. This ancient game, celebrated for its speed, skill, and intensity, has been played for over three thousand years, making it one of the oldest field games still in existence.
At Duggan Hurley Makers, we take pride in crafting exceptional hurling sticks that blend tradition with innovation. Our passion for hurling and dedication to quality ensures that every hurley we produce is not just a piece of equipment but a work of art that enhances your game.
Established in 2006, Duggan Hurley Makers has a rich history rooted in the heart of hurling culture. Our family-owned business, located in County Clare, has been handcrafting hurleys for generations. We maintain the time-honoured techniques passed down through the years while incorporating modern advancements to meet the needs of today’s players.
Each hurley is meticulously crafted using the finest ash wood, ensuring durability and superior performance.
Our commitment to sustainability means we source our wood responsibly, ensuring the future of our forests and the sport.
We offer custom designs and sizing to match your personal preferences and playing style.
Hurling, often referred to as “the fastest field sport in the world,” is a game deeply rooted in Irish culture and history. To excel in hurling, players must develop a unique blend of speed, agility, strength, and precision. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, mastering the fundamentals is key to success on the pitch.
Before you can master any hurling skill, you need to have a proper grip on your hurley. A correct grip allows for better control and power in your strikes and passes. Players should use the “lock grip” with the dominant hand placed firmly at the top of the hurley and the weaker hand positioned halfway down the shaft. This grip ensures maximum control while swinging the hurley.
Catching the sliotar (ball) effectively is crucial in hurling. It requires quick reflexes and strong hand-eye coordination. When catching, keep your eye on the ball, extend your arms, and cushion the sliotar into your hand. The hand-pass, a fundamental skill in moving the ball quickly, involves striking the sliotar with the palm of your hand to a teammate. It’s a quick and efficient way to maintain possession while under pressure.
To pick up the sliotar from the ground, hurlers use the roll lift and jab lift techniques. The roll lift involves rolling the sliotar back toward you with the hurley before scooping it up, while the jab lift is a more direct method of quickly lifting the ball off the ground. Mastery of both lifts is essential for gaining and maintaining possession during the game.
Striking the sliotar accurately and powerfully is one of the most important skills in hurling. Players can strike the ball from the hand or the ground. Striking from the hand requires precise timing and coordination as the player swings the hurley to hit the sliotar in mid-air. Ground striking is used when the ball is on the field, and it requires players to make strong, accurate hits to move the ball quickly up the pitch.
The solo run is a skill that allows players to carry the sliotar while running at full speed. By balancing the ball on the hurley while moving, a player can advance up the field while avoiding tackles from opponents. This skill is particularly useful for breaking through defensive lines and setting up scoring opportunities.
Hooking and blocking are defensive skills used to prevent an opponent from striking the ball. Hooking involves using the hurley to catch your opponent’s hurley from behind, disrupting their swing and preventing them from striking the sliotar. Blocking, on the other hand, involves using your hurley to intercept a shot or pass by placing it in the path of the ball. Both skills are critical for any player looking to excel in defensive play.
In hurling, free-taking is an essential skill for scoring points from set plays. This involves striking the sliotar from a stationary position after a foul has been committed. Precision and consistency are key, as a successful free-taker can make a significant impact on the scoreboard.
Each of these skills plays a vital role in a hurler’s overall game. Whether you’re defending your goal, setting up a teammate, or going for the score yourself, mastering these techniques will improve your performance on the field. Regular practice and attention to detail in each of these areas will help players develop the confidence and ability needed to succeed in competitive play.
