GAA: The GAA has today launched a national hurling development plan aimed at increasing participation and raising standards in the sport across the country.
The plan, devised by a hurling development committee, makes six key proposals that GAA President Christy Cooney believes will see the game “flourish”.
The implementation of the committee’s recommendations will see the development of “the Táin Adult Club Hurling League to provide a meaningful programme of Hurling games on a regular basis for adult club players in 13 developing Hurling Counties.”
A national hurling and camogie development centre in Waterford Institute of Technology Sports Campus will be established, while “sports science supports” will be made available to Antrim, Down, Carlow, Laois, Westmeath and Kerry.
The plan will also promote a “games based approach to training and development” and provide county boards with hurling mentors for coaches of underage and adult county teams.
Finally, a research study is planned “as part of an overall project to facilitate Change Management in a development context.”
“I am now confident that this unique and skilful game will flourish,” said Cooney today. “I wish every success to those who are involved in the implementation of the plan and I look forward to witnessing the positive results.”
Chairman of the committee Liam O’Neill said, while it was a “pleasure” to work on plan “the real work begins now”.
Joan O’Flynn, President of the Camogie Association, added the plan will “benefit all members of the Gaelic games family”.