Players can touch the ball with their hands, but they cannot pick it up from the ground. The ball is punched, not thrown, and it can be kicked. Teams score for getting the ball into a soccer-type net but can also make points for putting it over the top of the goal. Soccer, rugby, sailing, cycling, golf, and horse racing are also favorite activities. Ireland's national soccer team competed in the 1994 World Cup.
Fishing is also a common recreational activity, featuring mainly trout and salmon fishing.
Ireland's music industry is flourishing and has a strong international reputation. Contemporary rock often mixes elements of tradional folk music to create a unique style popular throughout the world. Ireland's population is generally healthy. Well-equipped public medical clinics are located throughout Ireland. Care in public medical clinics are located throughout Ireland.