Laois Coiste na nÓg Regulations 2026: Key Updates and Club Contacts

Laois GAA has officially released its Coiste na nÓg Regulations for 2026, outlining the structures, rules, and operational guidelines that will govern underage competitions across the county for the coming season.

The document provides clarity for clubs, mentors, referees, and players, ensuring a consistent and fair approach across all grades from U13 to U17.

You can view the full details here:

2026 Coiste na nÓg Regulations and Club Contacts

One of the most important elements within the regulations is player grading. Clubs fielding multiple teams must submit named panels of players who are restricted from dropping to lower grades.

For league competitions, clubs must submit lists of 13 players per team before March 13th, while championship grading lists must be submitted before May 28th. Once a player lines out in a higher championship grade, they are no longer eligible to play at a lower level for the remainder of that year.

This structure is designed to protect the integrity of competitions and ensure balanced grading across divisions.

2026 Coiste na nÓg Fixtures and Scheduling

Clear guidance is provided around fixtures, with the County Secretary responsible for issuing official schedules. Clubs are reminded that website fixtures are only indicative and should not be relied upon as final.

There are also strict rules around fixture changes. Games will not be altered after 10.30am on the Monday prior to the scheduled fixture, and all final round games should, where possible, be played simultaneously to preserve fairness.

In the case of colour clashes, both teams must change jerseys in championship fixtures, while the home team must change in league games.

Postponements and Walkovers

Postponements are tightly controlled. They will only be granted in exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement, or at the discretion of the CCC, with the expectation that the refixed game is played within three days or before the next scheduled fixture.

Failure to fulfil fixtures carries significant penalties. A team conceding a championship fixture will forfeit the game and face a minimum €100 fine. A second offence results in disqualification from the competition.

These measures emphasise the importance of fulfilling fixtures and maintaining the integrity of competitions.

2026 Coiste na nÓg Mentor and Safeguarding Requirements

All mentors working with underage players must meet strict safeguarding and coaching standards. These include:

Garda Vetting
Completion of a GAA Child Safeguarding Course
Completion of the Introduction to Coaching Gaelic Games Award

Additionally, mentors must wear distinguishing bibs during matches, and each team is limited to a maximum of five mentors inside the playing enclosure.

These requirements reflect the GAA’s continued commitment to player welfare and safe environments for young athletes.

Respect Initiative and Match Officials

The regulations reinforce the “Give Respect, Get Respect” initiative, ensuring that all participants, including players, coaches, referees, and spectators, contribute to a positive match-day environment.

Clubs must also provide match officials support, including two umpires and one linesperson per team. Referee expenses are clearly outlined, with €40 payable for U13 to U15 fixtures and €50 for U17 games, paid by the home club before throw-in.

2026 Coiste na nÓg Competition Structures and Rules

Competition formats vary by grade, with flexibility built in at younger levels.

U17 Academy Leagues are primarily 13-a-side, with the option to play 15-a-side.
U15 competitions are generally 15-a-side, with development leagues allowing reduced numbers and unlimited substitutions.
U13 competitions include a mix of 15-a-side and flexible formats where necessary, with a minimum of 11 players in development leagues.

At U13 level, specific rule adaptations are in place to aid development. Players are limited to two plays while in possession, kickouts are taken from the hand, and no square ball rule applies. Matches are 25 minutes per half, using size 4 balls.

The introduction of Football Review Committee (FRC) rules at U13 also includes the “solo and go,” new throw-in formats, and the awarding of two points for scores taken from outside the arc, excluding 45s.

2026 Coiste na nÓg Match Duration and Game Management

Match durations are standardised across grades:

U13 games consist of 25-minute halves
U15 and U17 games consist of 30-minute halves
Extra time applies where necessary, with 10-minute periods at U15 and U17, and 7-minute periods at U13

For knockout games, “Winner on the Day” rules apply at U15 and U17 levels, while U13 competitions do not use this format.

Tie-Breaking Rules

Where teams finish level on points, a structured tie-breaking system is applied. This includes:

Head-to-head result
Scoring difference
Highest total score for
Highest goals scored
Play-off if required

Special provisions apply in cases involving walkovers or disqualifications, ensuring fairness in final standings.

Supporting Club Development

The regulations also acknowledge the impact of inter-county commitments. Underage leagues are generally played without inter-county panellists, although designated rounds may allow their participation by agreement.

This approach ensures competitions can progress while still supporting county player development.

Conclusion

The 2026 Coiste na nÓg Regulations provide a comprehensive framework for underage Gaelic Games in Laois, balancing competitiveness with player development, fairness, and welfare.

Clubs are encouraged to familiarise themselves fully with the document to ensure compliance throughout the season. With clear structures, defined rules, and a strong emphasis on respect and safeguarding, the regulations set a solid foundation for another successful year of underage GAA in Laois.