Hurley (stick) facts for kids

A hurley is a special wooden stick used in the exciting Irish sports of hurling and camogie. It's a key piece of equipment for players!

Hurleys are usually between 70 and 100 centimeters (about 26 to 40 inches) long. One end of the stick is flattened and curved. This curved part is called the bas, and it's used to hit the sliotar, which is a small leather ball. In camogie, which is the women's version of hurling, the stick is often called a camogie stick.

What Are Hurleys Made From?

Hurleys are traditionally made from strong ash wood. Many are still crafted by local experts in Ireland. These craftsmen use old-fashioned methods to make sure each hurley is just right.

Why Do Hurleys Break?

Even though hurleys are made well, players often need several of them during a hurling season. This is because hurleys can break easily during a game. Sometimes, two hurleys might hit each other very hard. People often call this "the clash of the ash." Other times, a hurley might accidentally hit another player's arm or leg and break.

Rules for Using a Hurley

There are some important rules about using a hurley. For example, it's against the rules to throw your hurley to block a ball in hurling. However, camogie players are allowed to drop their stick if they need to make a handpass.

Images for kids

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  The bas and neck of a broken hurley lies upon the grass

See also

In Spanish: Hurley (stick) para niños