Hurling Champs: Smiling faces and rugged play dominated the scene at Fenway Park on Nov. 22, 2015 as Galway beat Dublin in an exhibition hurling match under drizzly skies. Photos courtesy of Fenway Sports Group

The Boston Friends of the Gaelic Players Association, in partnership with the Irish American Partnership, have planned an evening gala in support of the GPA for Fri., April 7 at 60 State Street in Boston.

A committee of more than 40 Boston Irish leaders expect as many as 400 guests to celebrate alongside elite amateur Gaelic players past and present. Organizers, hoping to replicate similar dinners that have been held in New York, seek to build on the momentum of the hugely successful hurling match between Galway and Dublin that was held at Fenway Park in November 2015.

The Fenway Hurling Classic drew a crowd of more than 27,000 fans to the hallowed grounds — the first such match held in the confines of Fenway since 1954. Galway bested the Dubs 50-47 in a bruising battles that featured an epic brawl to boot.

The real winners— no question— were fans of the Gaelic Games, who hope that the sport will return to Fenway in the near future for another go.

The April 7 dinner will begin with a 6 p.m. reception, with dinner to follow. Business attire is encouraged. For additional information and tickets, contact Therese Murray at the Irish American Partnership at 617-723-2707 or therese@irishap.org.