24/11/2025
A chat with Chiara Trench — Incoming GAA Rounders Communications Officer
As I wrap up my final week in the role, I wanted to finish on something simple: letting the Rounders community get to know the person who’ll be taking over national communications from next Sunday. Just a few questions with the new voice you’ll be hearing a lot from in 2026.
Say hello to Chiara Trench — originally from Mayo, now lining out with Leighlinbridge. This was a chance to hear her thoughts, her plans, and the kind of communicator she hopes to be.
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*”I started playing Rounders last year as a way to get more involved in my local community…”*
What first drew you to Rounders, and what made you want to step into a national role?
“I started playing Rounders last year as a way to get more involved in my local community and try a new sport. Very quickly, I saw how inclusive, fun, and welcoming it is. What motivated me to step into a national role is the belief that every GAA club in the country could benefit from having a Rounders team. It’s a family-friendly, community-building sport, and I want to help promote its growth and visibility nationwide.”
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*”There’s huge potential — especially on Facebook — for clubs to really show who they are.”*
What part of the Communications Officer role are you most excited about for 2026?
“I’m really excited to continue developing our social media presence, especially on Facebook where so many communities connect. There is huge potential for clubs to tell their stories and showcase the spirit of the sport online. I’m also looking forward to meeting and working with more people across Ireland who share a passion for Rounders.”
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*”Easy-going, approachable, collaborative.”*
How would you describe your communication style and the way you like to work with people?
“I’m easy-going, approachable, and always open to questions. I enjoy collaborating, sharing ideas, and helping people wherever I can. My goal is to make communication simple, friendly, and supportive for everyone involved.”
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*”The work done already is huge — now it’s about building consistency.”*
Where do you think national communications can improve, and what fresh approach do you bring?
“A huge amount of progress has been made already, especially with the website and our increased social media presence. I’d love to continue that momentum by introducing a monthly newsletter and a clear calendar of events on the website. Encouraging clubs to create content all year round — not just during the championship season — will also help keep Rounders constantly visible and growing.”
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*”Underage growth and the rise of women in the sport — that really excites me.”*
Rounders is growing fast — what aspects of that growth are you most passionate about promoting?
“I’m passionate about promoting the growth at underage level and the huge increase in women taking up the sport. From my experience so far, I can see Rounders is about much more than results. While success is great, and always something to work towards, I feel Rounders is built on community, connection, and enjoyment. I want to highlight players’ stories, their experiences, and why they stay involved. That sense of belonging and fun is a massive part of Rounders, and it’s a big driver of the sport’s continued growth.”
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*”Simple, practical support — that’s what clubs need most.”*
Clubs often look for help with content. How do you see yourself supporting them throughout the year?
“I’d like to provide simple, practical content guidelines and encourage consistency across the year. Photos, short videos, and authentic behind-the-scenes moments make a huge difference. Helping clubs understand how to capture and share what Rounders offers will support them in attracting new players and building their identity online.”
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*”Funny, relatable, real — that’s the content I love.”*
Are there particular campaigns, themes, or ideas you’d love to introduce?
“I love content that’s funny, relatable, and real. Rounders clubs have so many moments — at training, in matches, and socially — that are absolute comedy gold. I’d like to introduce more of that ‘real life in the club’ feel. Behind-the-scenes stories, why people join and stay for 20 years, the friendships, the fun… those are the things that resonate and travel well online.”
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*”If clubs feel empowered and the sport keeps growing — that’s success.”*
When you look back at the end of your first year, what would make you proud of your work?
“I’d love to see higher engagement, more followers, and more shared content across all platforms. I want clubs to feel empowered and supported, with a strong platform to showcase what makes them unique. Most importantly, I hope to see the sport continue to grow at community level as more people discover it through our communications.”
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*”If you’re unsure about something, just ask.”*
For clubs and players who don’t know you yet, what should they know about you as a person?
“I’m very approachable and always happy to help. If you’re ever unsure about something, just ask. And if you have a great idea — especially for content — get in touch straight away!”
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*”A definite 12.”*
(For the record, I didn’t tell her to say that.)
And finally — on a scale of 1 to 10, how impossible will it be to replace me?
“A definite 12 😂😉”
