GAA Players Grants are no giveaway

November 30th, 2007

Well finally the GAA grants things seems to be nearly sorted. No one seems to be mentioning the fact that the Government didn’t give the amount they had promised though. In fact they are making 1.5 million euro less available. But why should we be surprised I suppose. These are the same people who promised no waiting for hospital beds, a debt free Cork airport and tax cuts for all. Anyway regardless of what the players are getting they are going to be made work for it. Below are the goals they have to achieve to qualify for a grant.

A Player will have to attend at least 80% of all training sessions and/or matches. He’ll have to demonstrate sustained improvement through regular fitness testing. He has to keep a training log or diary, which must be updated regularly. If injured, he’s not off the hook either: he’ll then have to demonstrate he’s participating satisfactorily in the rehabilitation process.

On top of all that, he must get involved in coaching and games development at local level.

After that?

Work or college. Club commitments. Family life.

Then you have the fairly significant challenge of succeeding at intercounty level.

The amounts at stake? From €1,400 for participation in a second- tier competition to €2,500 for an All-Ireland senior finalist.

Entry Filed under: Opinion, Sport