Definition of the word hurling

The word "hurling" is derived from the Old Norse word "härla," which means "to throw." According to folklore, the Viking warriors who invaded Ireland in the 10th century introduced this sport to the island. The Vikings played a similar game called "kníkki" or "knattleikr," which involves throwing a hard ball called a "kníkki" (knut) using sticks called " spatse" (spates). The Irish, who were known for their ingenuity, adopted the game and modified it by using a smaller ball called a "sliothar" (pronounced slive-arr) that is pack-shaped and made of leather, and a wooden stick called the "hurley" (pronounced hurly). The game, which involves using sticks to hit the ball through the opposing team's goalposts, became immensely popular among the Irish people, and it continues to be their national sport. The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), which was founded in 1884, standardized the rules of hurling and promoted its growth. Today, hurling is played at various levels, from amateur to professional, and attracts a large following in Ireland and around the world.