2950151727

The Squad Programme is a key component for developing players for Tip-perary Minor Hurling Teams.

The programme has been running at pace throughout the year and continues on Saturday mornings during October for under 14 and under16 grades.

Previously the under15 age group had a fuli series of sessions under the watchful eyes of Dinny Cahill and Conor Stakelum.These sessions took place during july and August with the co-operation of Lar Devane and the under-15 selection committee. The players were put through an inten-sive series of skill develop-ment and matches in prepa-ration for their Tournament in Cork in August where they reached the finał. Thanks to all concerned. The under17 panel also had a fuli series of sessions during the year with Kevin Shelly co-ordinating. The panel had a fuli fitness assessment done in Univer-sity of Limerick Sports Complex where they were also given a talk on diet and nutrition. A fuli report is ready and the players will shortly receive their results. They played practice games and took part in an under 17 tournament organised by Kilkenny County Board to whom we say thanks for the invitation. This Tournament could prove very beneficial to this age group in the futurę.

The under-17 squad now await the County Minor selection process to take place and we wish all players the best of luck.

The under-14 squad con-tinue on Saturday mornings in Dr Morris Park with Len Gaynor in charge. Former players and coaches take the group through a fuli programme of skills and matches. Along with Len, Ger McGuire, Brendan Cummins, Stephen Murphy and Connie Maher will assist with coaching.

Also on Saturday mom-ings we have the under 16 squad in action with Kevin Shelly looking after them.To datę, Ken Hogan and Tommy Dunne have taken the sessions with Liam Sheedy and Colm Bonner to complete the programme over the next couple of weeks.

Club coaches are invited to attend these sessions and see our best coaches in action. All sessions com-mence at I0.30am.

As a finale all players will be invited to a forum at a datę to be confirmed before Christmas, where guest speakers will talk to and inspire our elite players to fulfil their true potential.

The talks will cover all aspects of player prepara-tion from skill through phys-ical and mental fitness to diet, nutrition, rest and recovery.

The success of the last two years at under 16 and minor level has given the County a great lift and things look bright for the futurę. However, we should not rest on our laurels but strive for continued improvement at these vital age groups. The Develop-ment Squad programme needs to be implemented and improved upon in the years ahead. This with the continued work at divisiona! and club level should ensure the continuation of that success.

Finally, a word of thanks to all who supported and assisted in the smooth running of the Squad Programme, especially County Senior and Juvenile Boards, team mentors and a special word of thanks to the ex-players and coaches for their commitment and expertise.