Camogie officials hope to see record-breaking crowds at the All-Ireland finals on Sunday, August 9.Ireland's Content Pool
The Camogie Association expects a record crowd at this Sunday's (9 August) All-Ireland finals.
A crowd of 28,795 attended last year's final at Croke Park, and a spokesperson for the Camogie Association said they expect 35,000 to 40,000 people to attend this weekend.
Interest in camogie is greater than ever following last Sunday's semi-finals in Thurles, which were watched by a record crowd of 10,311 -- the first time the semi-final double header has attracted more than 10,000 people.
Defending champions Galway overcame Kilkenny by a score of 1-14 to 0-11 in the first match at Semple Stadium before Cork booked their place in the showpiece match, beating Tipperary by 2-16 to 0-17.
Sunday's triple header begins with the Glen Dimplex Premier Junior Championship final between Armagh and Cavan at noon before Antrim and Laois contest the Glen Dimplex Intermediate Championship final at 2 pm.
Cork will seek to overturn Galway in what is a repeat of last year's Glen Dimplex Senior Championship final at 4 pm.
On that occasion, the Tribeswomen eked out a one-point win, holding off a fierce comeback by the Rebels, having led by five at half-time.
In all, there are 28 counties involved in the All-Ireland Camogie championships across the senior (10), intermediate (eight) and premier junior (six) and junior (four) competitions.
With around 30 players on each county panel, approximately 840 players took part in this year's championships.
In addition to championships sponsor Glen Dimplex, EVOKE is the national referee sponsor of the Camogie Association.
The Camogie Association also counts AIB (All-Ireland Camogie Club Championships), Centra (Camogie Leagues), PwC (All-Stars Awards), Electric Ireland (Third Level and Minor championships, Hurl with Me) and Allianz (Post Primary Championship, Camán to Croker) among its sponsors.
“An All-Ireland Final is unlike any other sporting occasion. It is a day filled with pride, passion, emotion and joy. Not just for the teams competing, but for every family, club, coach, volunteer and supporter who has played a part in their journey," said Brian Molloy, president of the Camogie Association.
“We have an opportunity to make a powerful statement for camogie and for women’s sport. By coming to Croke Park, by bringing our families and friends, and by filling the stands, we can show the country the strength and unity that exists throughout our game.
“I’d also like to sincerely thank Glen Dimplex for their continued commitment to camogie. Their support has helped us grow our game and create occasions like this, where our players can perform on the biggest stage in front of the audiences they deserve.
“Together, let’s make history, break records and create an atmosphere our players will never forget.”
*This article was originally published on BusinessPlus.ie.