Tom Parsons
Tom Parsons is the Chief Executive of the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), an organization dedicated to advocating for Gaelic athletes in Ireland. A former intercounty player himself, having represented Mayo, Parsons has been vocal about the challenges facing amateur athletes in a rapidly commercializing sport. He has highlighted the economic impact of intercounty players, notably the financial losses they incur while generating significant revenue for the GAA. Under his leadership, the GPA has engaged with government bodies to seek better support and recognition for players, especially in light of the rising costs of living that have affected their ability to maintain amateur status. Parsons emphasizes the importance of creating a value proposition for players to ensure the preservation of the amateur ethos in Gaelic games.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Tom Parsons backed the GAA’s commitment to the plans ahead of the GAA congress.
Ulster rivals Armagh and Donegal meet in Division One – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2026-02-22
GPA chief executive Tom Parsons said it was 'a good day for intercounty players with avenues towards a significant uplift in funding.'
GAA formally recognises GPA image rights in new four-year deal – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-11-30
Hawke’s Bay captain Tom Parsons scored in the 26th minute.
NPC: Lincoln McClutchie’s golden boot, Folau Fakatava’s tries help Hawke’s Bay claim golden-point win in Battle of the Bays
New Zealand· 2025-09-15
Tom Parsons is the skipper and lock for the Magpies, possibly playing in his 100th match.
Hawke’s Bay v Canterbury: A tough NPC night in the cold for MagpiesNew Zealand· 2025-08-22
Among those who played for Mayo that day were Rob Hennelly, Lee Keegan, Chris Barrett, Colm Boyle, Donal Vaughan, Séamus O’Shea, Keith Higgins, Tom Parsons and Kevin McLoughlin.
Andy Moran’s selection as Mayo football boss sparks hype and considerable hope among the faithful – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-08-13
Tom Parsons has hit out at 'cheap remarks' that preseason competitions should be restored.
Gaelic Players Association concerned over continuing ‘cheap remarks’ over split season – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-05-15
GPA chief executive Tom Parsons recently stated: 'If an NFL game can receive €10 million in State funding, why are we not investing at the same level in our own players who generate far greater economic and social value?'
Minister defends €10m investment in NFL game at Croke Park – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-03-13
Tom Parsons, chief executive of the GPA, indicated both moves would probably result in kickback from intercounty players.
Gaelic Players Association flags resistance to ‘stretching’ intercounty season – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-02-12
Tom Parsons, the chief executive of the Gaelic Players Association, warned that the support of amateur status cannot be guaranteed in the future.
Gaelic Players Association’s support of amateur status cannot be guaranteed, Parsons warns – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-02-12