21/06/2026
As part of Men's Health Week, we're highlighting the stories of men across Ireland and the positive role GAA Rounders plays in their lives.
Today, we hear from Mark Jennings of Breaffy Rounders Club, Mayo.
A player for the past six years, Mark has become one of the club's most versatile performers, lining out primarily at short stop for the men's team and right outfield for the mixed team. In true Mark fashion, however, he jokes that he has played every position on the pitch at least once during championship action and is a boring player known for his low knees 😉 .
While there have been plenty of memorable moments, reaching the Men's All-Ireland Final with Breaffy in 2024 stands out as a career highlight. He also fondly remembers the 2024 Mixed Final against Limekiln, describing it as one of the most enjoyable games he has ever played.
As a Mayo man he showed exactly whats most important, Breaffy winning an All Ireland in Rounders rather than Mayo winning an All Ireland in football.
But when asked why he plays Rounders, his answer gets to the heart of what Men's Health Week is all about.
"It gets me away from everyday life for a few hours a week, a release or a freedom I would call it."
It's a simple statement, but one that many players across the country will relate to. Sport provides an opportunity to switch off, stay active, spend time with friends and focus on something positive outside the demands of daily life.
For Mark, Rounders has brought competition, great memories and friendships, but perhaps most importantly, it provides that chance each week to step away from the pressures of life and enjoy being part of a team.
A reminder this Men's Health Week that sometimes the value of sport isn't measured by medals or trophies, but by the positive impact it can have on our wellbeing.
BreaffyRounders Connacht GAA Rounders Uachtarán Gaa Rounders
