Here’s a brief round-up of what will be happening at the International Society this semester.

INTERNATIONAL Society’s committee are feverishly working on plans to make this semester another great one for our members. Membership costs just €3, which will allow you to take advantage of International Soc’s packed calendar of events, trips and weekly activities.

Events such as Bollywood Night and the Country Colours Ball promise to be highlights of this semester. Our Events Officer is committed to making sure that International Night every Friday in The Stables continues to earn its already growing status as a legendary fixture on campus.

With an excellent choice of both day and weekend trips International Soc gives UL students the opportunity to have unforgettable experiences. We promise to make sure that you will have to pay as little as possible for these trips, so that you get to see and do as much as you can while in Ireland.

This society also offers some terrific weekly activities. You can engage in some mental stimulation (not that much, don’t worry!) with Book Club, give something back to the local community with Study Club, or get fed with Mentor Dinners.

Incoming International Soc President Amanda Keane stresses that the society welcomes everyone; Erasmus, Study Abroad, as well as Irish. We don’t have a requirement for how international our members have to be, so wherever you’re from or whatever you study just show up and demand to be shown a good time!

U.L 1-13  Toulouse 3-5
By: Chris Callaghan.
On a wet and windy Thursday evening in mid November, the astro turf pitch played host to the first ever Gaelic football match   between the UL international society and the French GAA team Toulouse.

Trained throughout the year by John Kane, Colin “Diggie” Dignam and Chris Callaghan a group of UL international students pitted their wits and newly acquired skills in a friendly match against the very skilful and experienced French GAA club who were touring Ireland at the time.

In an exciting and high quality first half the French side raced into an early lead with two goals in quick succession as the physical dominance of their French counter parts proved too much for the UL team.   However, in the second half the UL team showed great desire and determination as they quickly closed the three point deficit from the first half. Some fine scores from both teams ensured a nail biting finish to the match, with the UL team just edging the match with two points to spare in a pulsating finish.

At the end of this excellent match the result did not matter, as Gaelic football and Irish culture were the real winners. Both sets of players demonstrated great Gaelic football skills and as well a great enthusiasm and passion for this fantastic Irish sport which will undoubtedly aid the further development of this game.

The UL international society would like to thank the UL GAA club for its support and the use of their equipment during the semester and to all the individuals who were involved  in making this match possible . Special thanks are required as well to the Toulouse GAA club for coming to UL and playing this match.