DOCUMENTARY PROJECTEXILES
Exiles is a documentary and photography project that tells the story of Ladies Gaelic Football in Britain. The title derives from the name given to the team representing London in the first documented game of Ladies Gaelic football played in Britain, an exhibition match against Offaly in 1975.
We aim to present the history of Irish women who have emigrated to Britain and found a sense of community and belonging through sport, highlighting how the sport has played a crucial role in helping Irish people in Britain connect with their heritage and culture. It will also explore the connection between the Irish diaspora and Ladies Gaelic Football that exists in Britain across several generations, as well as the growing number of players who have taken up the sport despite not being of Irish Heritage.
The Project is being made by Daragh Drake and filmmaker Emma Broderick in association with Britain LGFA. The project is also being supported by the London Irish Centre.
We aim to raise the profile of the Ladies Gaelic Football in Britain and encourage participation. Our intention is to secure a streaming partner to make the project accessible to as wide an audience. There are over 6 million people who identify as Irish within Britain many of whom have not had exposure to the sport. Outside of this many people are now taking up the sport that are not of Irish heritage, expanding the game further. These factors paired with the rise in women participating in sports in recent years puts Ladies Gaelic Football in a prime position for development.
Photos below taken as part of the project by Daragh Drake.
