Eamon Fitzgerald is New York GAA Games Development Manager. The 41-year-old from Co Kerry moved to New York in 2022. He used to live in Yonkers but recently moved to the Bronx .
In his Postcard from the US to Ireland , Eamon talks about his love of travel, missing his home and New York's GAA community.
When did you move and why?
I moved to New York in August 2022 when an opportunity came up with New York GAA . I have always loved traveling and lived in Australia for two years previously. I looked at it as an opportunity for me to progress in my career and the idea of living in New York was too good an opportunity to pass up so here I am.
What was the most difficult thing about moving?
The most difficult thing was moving away from family and friends . Although it's a short enough flight , I miss being around family, especially my nephews and nieces. My brother and his wife had a baby girl recently and not being around for stuff like that can be hard.
Having said that, the people in New York have helped make the transition easier as they have been so welcoming and helpful. Being involved with the GAA , you are constantly meeting people every day so it definitely helps with the settling in process .
Tell us about where you live and work and how you’ve found life in New York
I live in the Bronx . I have been with New York GAA since I arrived and it has been a great experience. I have learned so much about the way of life here from the people I meet on a daily basis. New York is a great place to live.
I view it as having the best of both worlds - the fast pace of New York City and then the more quiet, relaxed atmosphere of living among the Irish community . I love that there is so much to see and do in New York as well as having the opportunity to travel to the other states to see what they have going on.
What have you most enjoyed about New York?
I have loved getting to meet so many new people and seeing many new places. Almost every week I am being introduced to someone new. I also enjoy getting to travel to places like Texas and Tennessee to name just a few.
What do you find different about the United States and Ireland?
I grew up just outside a small village - Causeway - before moving in to the town of Tralee . It's a huge difference living somewhere the size of New York . I have also been amazed by the huge number of sports that children play here on a weekly basis. Parents are always on the go here with commutes to different training sessions and games.
Finally, the food portions are so much bigger in the US compared to home.
What do you miss most about Ireland?
My family and friends . Apart from them, I miss being around my local club at this time of the year as they get ready for their championship season. I also miss small things like certain foods from time to time.
Have you been involved in the Irish community in New York?
Yes, I have been immersed in the Irish community since day one thanks to my role within the GAA . The Irish community has been great at helping me to settle in. There are a huge amount of Irish people in New York who are thriving and you are always learning from them.
What would you say to anyone thinking of moving there?
Take the opportunity . It doesn't matter if you try it for a few months or a few years but it's worth experiencing . Also, get involved in the GAA, a sport, a club or some kind of social group. Irish people here will always try to help you so get to know as many as you can. It will make the transition so much easier.
Have you a message for friends and family reading this at home?
I hope you are all doing well and I look forward to meeting up with you when I'm home again. If anyone is thinking of visiting or moving here , make sure to reach out if you need any help or advice .
For all the latest news straight to your inbox, sign up for our FREE newsletters here .
For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .
Most Popular
Comments / 0