The All-Ireland Football and Hurling Finals may not be taking place for at least another nine months, but some counties began their seasons at the weekend.
Games in all four provinces took place on Saturday and Sunday as teams from both codes began to blow off the cobwebs, with dreams of Championship glory later this year.
Here are some of the best photos from the first of many weekends on the 2016 GAA calendar.
Clare manager Davy Fitzgerald with coach and selector Donal Og Cusack watch on as Clare played Cork in Sixmilebridge. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Cathal Noonan
Cork goalkeeper Patrick Collins attempts a goal from a free during the final moments of the match. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Cathal Noonan
Tyrone's Niall Sludden and QUB’s Ryan Murray trying to play on a very wet pitch in the Dr McKenna Cup clash. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Presseye/Declan Roughan
Cavan's David Givney is sent to the stand against Armagh. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Presseye/Matt Mackey
A spectator looks on in the wet conditions during Wexford's O'Byrne Cup game against Dublin. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Donall Farmer
Mayo manager Stephen Rochford watches the early part of their game against GMIT from the press box. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie
NUIG's Kevin McDonnell, Criostor Davey, David Murray and Dave Cunnane tackle Jason Doherty of Mayo. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie
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