Hurling – Limerick v Clare : Preview and Starting Teams

Limerick v Cork: All-Ireland Hurling Semi-Final Preview and Team News

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Barry Nash Out Due to Hamstring Injury

Limerick must do without influential defender Barry Nash for Sunday’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final against Cork. The South Liberties man is ruled out by a hamstring injury.

Sean Finn Steps In

The reigning champions have a more than adequate replacement in the shape of four-time All-Star Sean Finn, who comes into the full-back line.

Team Changes for Limerick

He’s one of two changes to the side that beat Clare in the Munster SHC Final, with a fit-again Séamus Flanagan coming in for Shane O’Brien, who makes way despite his excellent performance in that match.

John Kiely’s Tough Decision

John Kiely surely agonized over that decision, but Flanagan’s experience and the fact that he scored 3-3 from play when Limerick played Cork in the round robin phase of the Munster SHC would have been major points in his favor.

Strong Bench Options

You can be sure that O’Brien will have a part to play from the bench, as will fellow young attackers Adam English and Donnacha Ó Dálaigh.

Cork’s Team Changes

Cork make one change to the team that defeated Dublin in the quarter-final two weeks ago, with a fit-again Robert Downey coming into the team at centre-back.

Strategic Midfield Shift

His inclusion sees Ciarán Joyce move from centre-back to midfield, with Luke Meade dropping to the bench.

Cork’s Recent Form

Cork were triumphant when the teams met on May 11, a win that breathed life into a campaign that looked dead after defeats to Waterford and Clare. Since then, the Rebels have strung three more wins together and have settled into a consistent team for the first time in a number of years.

Underdogs with Potential

They weren’t hugely impressive in their last two games against Offaly and Dublin, but it’s no harm to be coming into this match as underdogs with room for improvement. Cork troubled Limerick with their pace and movement two months ago, and shifting that Limerick half-back line out of position and exploiting the space behind them will be crucial to their hopes of causing an upset.

Limerick’s Drive for Five

If Limerick play to their full potential, they could win this game comfortably enough, but the longer Cork remains in the contest, the more their confidence will grow. They have good options from the bench in players like Shane Kingston, Robbie O’Flynn, and Luke Meade. If the Rebels are still in the game coming into the final quarter, they’ll fancy their chances.

Croke Park Advantage

Limerick tend to really take off when they get to Croke Park in any given year. They have the art of peaking again after a four-week break down to a fine art, so it’s hard to see their drive for five All-Ireland finals in a row veering off the road here.

Starting Teams

LIMERICK: Nickie Quaid; Sean Finn, Dan Morrissey, Mike Casey; Diarmaid Byrnes, Declan Hannon, Kyle Hayes; Will O’Donoghue, Cathal O’Neill; Gearóid Hegarty, Cian Lynch, Tom Morrissey; Aaron Gillane, Seamus Flanagan, David Reidy. Subs: Jason Gillane, Conor Boylan, Colin Coughlan, Adam English, Richie English, Graeme Mulcahy, Shane O’Brien, Aidan O’Connor, Fergal O’Connor, Donnacha Ó Dálaigh, Darragh O Donovan.

CORK: Patrick Collins; Niall O’Leary, Eoin Downey, Sean O’Donoghue; Tim O’Mahony, Robert Downey, Mark Coleman; Ciarán Joyce, Darragh Fitzgibbon; Declan Dalton, Shane Barrett, Seamus Harnedy; Patrick Horgan, Alan Connolly, Brian Hayes. Subs: Brion Saunderson, Damien Cahalane, Ger Mellerick, Tommy O’Connell, Luke Meade, Ethan Twomey, Conor Lehane, Jack O’Connor, Shane Kingston, Padraig Power, Robbie O’ Flynn.

All-Ireland Hurling Semi-Final Preview, Team News & Start Time: Clare v Kilkenny

All-Ireland Hurling Semi-Final Preview: Clare v Kilkenny

Clare v Kilkenny Showdown

The much-anticipated All-Ireland semi-final clash sees Clare and Kilkenny face off for the third consecutive year. With Kilkenny emerging victorious in the past two encounters, the stakes are high for Clare to turn the tide. Kilkenny secured their semi-final spot as Leinster champions, while Clare advanced as the beaten Munster finalists and All-Ireland quarter-final winners.

Championship Journey to Date

Clare’s Path

– **Limerick 3-15 Clare 1-18 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 3-26 Cork 3-24 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 4-21 Waterford 2-26 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 1-24 Tipperary 0-24 (Munster round robin)**
– **Limerick 1-26 Clare 1-20 (Munster final)**
– **Clare 2-28 Wexford 1-19 (All-Ireland quarter-final)**

With a record of four wins and two losses, Clare has shown resilience throughout the championship. Key players like A. McCarthy and M. Rodgers have been instrumental in their journey, contributing significantly to their scoring tally.

Kilkenny’s Path

– **Kilkenny 5-30 Antrim 0-13**
– **Galway 2-23 Kilkenny 0-29**
– **Carlow 1-20 Kilkenny 1-20**
– **Kilkenny 1-28 Dublin 2-23**
– **Kilkenny 1-24 Wexford 2-20**
– **Kilkenny 3-28 Dublin 1-18 (Leinster final)**

Kilkenny remains the only unbeaten team in this year’s championship, with four wins and two draws. Their impressive performance is highlighted by the contributions of top scorers like TJ Reid and J. Donnelly.

Head-to-Head History

In their previous nine championship meetings, Kilkenny has dominated with seven wins, one draw, and Clare’s lone victory dating back to the 1997 All-Ireland semi-final. This historical dominance by Kilkenny adds extra pressure on Clare to change the narrative in this crucial match.

Clare’s Recent Success Against Kilkenny

Clare has shown promising form against Kilkenny this season, winning both encounters. They triumphed 0-19 to 0-16 in the Allianz League group game in Ennis and secured a 3-16 to 1-20 victory in the final in Thurles. However, their last championship win over Kilkenny was in the 1997 All-Ireland semi-final, highlighting the significance of this upcoming clash.

Championship Meeting History

This will be the tenth championship meeting between the two teams. Kilkenny’s track record of seven wins out of nine meetings showcases their historical dominance, while Clare looks to even the score and secure a crucial victory.

Kilkenny’s Unbeaten Streak

Kilkenny stands out as the only unbeaten team in this year’s hurling championship, with four wins and two draws. This impressive record sets a high bar for Clare, who have lost once to Limerick. Both teams have shown their mettle, but Kilkenny’s consistency makes them a formidable opponent.

Recent Championship Performances

Kilkenny’s recent semi-final performances have been strong, including victories over Clare in 2022 and 2023. Clare, on the other hand, has struggled in recent semi-finals, with their last win dating back to 2013 against Limerick. This contrast in recent form adds an intriguing dimension to this year’s semi-final.

As Clare and Kilkenny prepare to face off, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter. Will Kilkenny continue their unbeaten run, or will Clare break their semi-final curse and make history? Stay tuned for an epic showdown at the All-Ireland semi-final.

CLARE: Eibhear Quilligan; Adam Hogan, Conor Cleary, Conor Leen; Diarmuid Ryan, John Conlon, David McInerney; David Fitzgerald, Cathal Malone; Tony Kelly, Mark Rodgers, Peter Duggan; Aidan McCarthy, Shane O’Donnell, David Reidy. Subs: Cian Broderick, Rory Hayes, Paul Flanagan, Cian Galvin, Darragh Lohan, Ryan Taylor, Ian Galvin, Aron Shanagher, Shane Meehan, Keith Smyth, Seán Rynne.

KILKENNY: Eoin Murphy; Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; David Blanchfield, Richie Reid, Mikey Carey; Cian Kenny, Paddy Deegan; Adrian Mullen, TJ Reid, John Donnelly; Martin Keoghan, Billy Ryan, Eoin Cody. Subs: Aidan Tallis, Conor Delaney, Shane Murphy, Jordan Molloy, Cillian Buckley, Conor Fogarty, Tom Phelan, Walter Walsh, Owen Wall, Conor Heary, Gearoid Dunne.

Connacht Rugby squad for 2024/25 and strongest starting team

Connacht Rugby: A Strong Contender for the 2024/25 Season

As the 2024/25 rugby season approaches, Connacht Rugby appears poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and European competitions. With a blend of seasoned internationals, emerging talent, and strategic signings, the team looks formidable on paper.

Predicted Starting XV

1. **Peter Dooley** – The experienced prop brings stability and power to the front row, crucial for solid scrummaging.
2. **Dylan Tierney-Martin** – A dynamic hooker known for his work rate around the park and accuracy in the lineout.
3. **Finlay Bealham** – The cornerstone of the scrum, his experience and versatility are invaluable.
4. **Josh Murphy** – A reliable presence in the second row, offering both physicality and lineout prowess.
5. **Niall Murray** – Another strong lineout option and a player who excels in open play.
6. **Cian Prendergast** – A rising star, known for his relentless work rate and ball-carrying ability.
7. **Shamus Hurley-Langton** – A dynamic flanker with a knack for turnovers and robust defense.
8. **Sean Jansen** – A powerful number eight, providing go-forward ball and defensive solidity.
9. **Matthew Devine** – A young scrum-half with a sharp pass and excellent game management skills.
10. **Josh Ioane** – The playmaker, bringing creativity, vision, and a reliable boot.
11. **Shayne Bolton** – An explosive winger with the ability to break tackles and finish clinically.
12. **Bundee Aki** – The talismanic centre, offering leadership, hard running, and defensive organization.
13. **Cathal Forde** – A promising talent at outside centre, known for his pace and agility.
14. **Mack Hansen** – A versatile and dangerous back, capable of turning the game on its head with individual brilliance.
15. **Santiago Cordero** – The Argentine dynamo at fullback, providing attacking flair and counter-attacking prowess.

Bench Impact Players

16. **Dave Heffernan** – An experienced hooker, providing reliable set-piece skills and impact off the bench.
17. **Denis Buckley** – A seasoned prop with plenty of experience in the scrummaging department.
18. **Jack Aungier** – A strong and mobile prop, offering depth in the front row.
19. **Oisín Dowling** – Versatile in the second row or back row, adding physicality and work rate.
20. **Paul Boyle** – A dynamic back-rower, known for his ball-carrying and tackling.
21. **Hugh Gavin** – An emerging scrum-half, bringing energy and quick service.
22. **Ben Murphy** – A utility back, capable of covering multiple positions in the backline.
23. **Byron Ralston** – A powerful and fast winger, adding finishing power and defensive solidity.

Potential Starters

Connacht’s squad depth is bolstered by several players who could make a significant impact this season. Here are some names to watch:

– **Caolin Blade**: The experienced scrum-half, always a threat with his sniping runs and quick ball distribution.
– **Piers O’Conor**: A versatile backline player, capable of covering centre and wing, offering both creativity and solid defense.
– **Joe Joyce**: A robust lock, bringing physicality and leadership in the pack.
– **Darragh Murray**: An emerging second row, known for his athleticism and lineout skill.
– **Conor Oliver**: A dynamic flanker, excellent at the breakdown and in open play.
– **David Hawkshaw**: A talented fly-half or centre, providing tactical nous and versatility.
– **Shane Jennings**: A promising back with speed and agility, capable of playing across the back three.
– **Chay Mullins**: A young back with potential, known for his pace and finishing ability.
– **Andrew Smith**: A strong and versatile backline player, offering depth and physicality.

Conclusion

Connacht Rugby looks set to be a formidable force in the 2024/25 season. With a well-balanced starting XV.

CONNACHT RUGBY SQUAD 2024-25

Props
Jack AUNGIER
Finlay BEALHAM
Denis BUCKLEY
Peter DOOLEY
Jordan DUGGAN
Sam ILLO
Temi LASISI

Hookers
Eoin DE BUITLÉAR
Dave HEFFERNAN
Adam MCBURNEY
Dylan TIERNEY-MARTIN

Locks
Oisín DOWLING
Joe JOYCE
Josh MURPHY
Darragh MURRAY
Niall MURRAY
David O’CONNOR

Back Row
Paul BOYLE
Shamus HURLEY-LANGTON
Sean JANSEN
Oisín MCCORMACK
Seán O’BRIEN
Conor OLIVER
Cian PRENDERGAST

Scrum-Half
Caolin BLADE
Matthew DEVINE
Ben MURPHY
Colm REILLY

Out-Half
Jack CARTY
JJ HANRAHAN
Josh Ioane

Centre
Bundee AKI
Cathal FORDE
Hugh GAVIN
David HAWKSHAW
Piers O’CONOR
Byron RALSTON

Back Three
Shayne BOLTON
Santiago CORDERO
Mack HANSEN
Shane JENNINGS
Chay MULLINS
John PORCH
Andrew SMITH

All Black Josh Ioane Linked with Move to Connacht Rugby

The rugby transfer market is buzzing with speculation, and one of the hottest topics is the potential move of All Black Josh Ioane to Connacht Rugby.

According to social media rumors, Ioane is set to compete with Jack Carty and Sean Naughton for the coveted ten jersey, with JJ Hanrahan sidelined until next March due to injury.

This move could significantly bolster Connacht’s squad, offering a dynamic and experienced playmaker to the mix. Sources suggest the deal should be confirmed in the coming days.

Josh Ioane’s Rugby Journey

Early Career and Rise with the Highlanders

Josh Ioane’s rugby journey began with Otago, where he made an immediate impact. His impressive performance in his debut season caught the attention of the Highlanders, who signed him for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

Breakthrough Season in 2019

During the 2019 Super Rugby season, Ioane emerged as a regular starter despite the presence of experienced Marty Banks. Ioane’s ability to consistently score points was a highlight of the season, finishing as one of the highest points-scorers with 114 points.

All Blacks Selection and International Debut

Ioane’s domestic form did not go unnoticed, and on 2 July 2019, he was named by head coach Steve Hansen as one of four uncapped players in New Zealand’s All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship. Although initially overlooked in the starting lineup, Ioane made his international debut for New Zealand against Tonga on 7 September 2019. He made an immediate impact, replacing Beauden Barrett at half-time and scoring 8 points in a 92–7 victory.

Continued Domestic Success

Ioane continued to perform at a high level in domestic competitions. After leaving the Highlanders, he joined the Chiefs for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season. His tenure with various teams showcases his adaptability and consistent performance on the field.

Career Statistics

| Years | Team | Apps | Points |
|———–|————–|——|——–|
| 2017–2022 | Otago | 57 | 427 |
| 2018–2021 | Highlanders | 43 | 229 |
| 2022– | Chiefs | 29 | 74 |

Potential Impact at Connacht Rugby

Competition for the Ten Jersey

If Ioane’s move to Connacht materialises , he will be vying for the starting fly-half position with seasoned player Jack Carty and emerging talent Sean Naughton. This competition is expected to elevate the overall performance of the team as players push each other for the starting role.

Filling the Void Left by JJ Hanrahan

With JJ Hanrahan likely out until next March due to injury, Ioane’s presence will be crucial. His experience and skill set will be invaluable in guiding the team through the upcoming season, providing stability and creativity in the backline.

Josh Ioane’s potential move to Connacht Rugby is a significant development for Irish Rugby, where Leinster currently have four international tens. Questions will have to be asked why Connacht had the go find a non Irish qualified player to fill the gap left by the Hanrahan injury.

Ireland team named for European Athletics U18 Championships

Athletics Ireland has selected an exciting team for the European Athletics U18 Championships in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia, from 18-21 July 2024.

Ireland has enjoyed medal success at previous editions of the U18 Championships, most recently with Fintan Dewhirst taking silver in the 400m hurdles back in 2022. Other medallists have included Gina Akpe Moses (100m silver, 2016), Molly Scott (100mh bronze, 2016), Rhasidat Adeleke (200m gold, 2018), Sophie O’Sullivan (800m silver, 2018), and Sarah Healy (1500m gold and 800m gold, 2018).

This year’s team has strength in depth right across a range of track and field events with 15-year-old Conor Penny (Craughwell AC) and 16-year-old Thomas Williams (Shercock AC) heading to these championships as the top ranked athletes in their respective high jump (Penny) and hammer throw (Willaims) events.

There is no shortage of talent selected for the track events with Joe Burke (Templemore) in the 200m and Conor Kelly (Derry Track) in the 400m looking exciting.

Saoirse Fitzgerald of Lucan Harriers continues to impress and will benefit from more championship experience in the 800m, while Jennifer O’Leary (Nenagh Olympic) will join Emily Bolton (Donore Harriers) in a strong Irish representation in the 1500m. Clodagh Gill (Moy Valley) has continued to impress this season and will be another looking to chase down a top 10 in the 3000m.

Noah Harris (Parnell AC) has performed superbly this season, earning him selection in the 3000m and 2000m steeplechase, while Ethan Dewhirst (Tír Chonaill) will look to channel memories of brother Fintan’s success in the 400m hurdles when he takes to the track in Banska Bystrica.

Ireland has arguably never sent a stronger walks selection to a European Championships with Séamus Clarke (Moy Valley) and Matthew Newell (Tuam AC) both ranked inside the top six in the 5k race walk. Newall’s clubmate Savanagh O’Callaghan (Tuam) will lead the way for Ireland in the women’s 5k race walk, with the 16-year-old sure to revel on the big stage as she looks to gain more top-level racing experience following her prestigious win in the US earlier this season.

There is also a strong representation in the women’s high jump with the in-form Tara O’Connor (Dundalk St Gerard’s) and Siún Quinn (Brothers Pearse) set to take their respective places with realistic hopes of top 12 finishes.

Caoimhe Gallen (Lifford Strabane) will be eying a top 10 finish in the hammer, while Ratoath’s multi-event star Enya Silkena will be another looking for a bold showing in the heptathlon and javelin (500g) competitions. European Youth Olympics bronze medallist Cian Crampton (Edenderry AC) will have sights on a top 10 finish in the discus.

Eve McMahon Set to Defend Her Title at U21 Sailing World Championships

Today marks the beginning of the U21 World Championships in Viana Do Castelo, Portugal. Among the talented sailors competing, all eyes will be on Eve McMahon, the reigning U21 ILCA World Champion, who is set to defend her title one last time before focusing on her Olympic journey.

A Year of Remarkable Achievements

Eve McMahon has had an extraordinary past year. After securing her World Championship title last year in Tangier, Morocco, she went on to secure Olympic Qualification for the ILCA 6 class. Her outstanding performances earned her the Sailor of the Year award at the Irish Sailing Awards and a nomination for the RTE Young Sportsperson of the Year. This summer, Eve aims to reclaim her U21 title while also preparing to represent Ireland at the Paris Olympic Games, making her the only sailor in Viana who will compete at both prestigious events.

Olympic Aspirations

McMahon’s commitment to excellence is evident as she balances her preparation for the U21 World Championships with her Olympic ambitions. “It’s an incredible opportunity to defend my title and also prepare for the Olympics,” said McMahon. “I’m looking forward to the challenge and representing Ireland on these significant stages.”

Supporting Irish Talent

Joining her in Portugal are Fiachra McDonnell of the Royal St. George Yacht Club and Tom Coulter of the East Antrim Boat Club, who will compete in the Men’s U21 ILCA 7 class. This is the same class Finn Lynch will represent Ireland in at the Olympic Games in Marseille, showcasing the depth of talent in Irish sailing.

Future Prospects

As Eve McMahon prepares for these competitions, her focus and dedication highlight her potential for future successes. “This year has been a whirlwind, but I’m excited for what’s ahead,” she said. “Balancing the World Championships and Olympic preparations is challenging, but I’m ready to give my best.”

The sailing community eagerly awaits McMahon’s performance in Viana Do Castelo, hopeful that she will add another remarkable chapter to her sailing career before heading to the Paris Olympics.

Galway’s Liam Nolan Qualifies for The Open Championship at Royal Troon

Irish amateur golfer Liam Nolan has qualified for this month’s Open Championship at Royal Troon after an impressive performance at the 36-hole qualifying event at Dundonald Links. Nolan finished tied-second, carding rounds of 69 and 70 to achieve a five-under-par score, securing his place in the major tournament.

Clutch Performance at Dundonald Links

Nolan, a Walker Cup star from Galway, demonstrated nerves of steel by holing a critical five-foot par save on the 18th hole to avoid a four-way play-off for the final two qualifying spots. “It’s incredible,” said Nolan, who was tied with Spain’s Angel Hidalgo, just three shots behind England’s Sam Hutsby in the race for four places at Royal Troon. “I mean, I can’t really wrap my head around it. I’m just happy I holed that five-footer or so on the last. Still getting over that.”

First Major Championship

Nolan is excited about the opportunity to compete in his first major championship. “It’s an amazing opportunity to play my first major and I just can’t wait for it now,” he said. “It’s going to be crazy. I feel like I’ve had a very good amateur career, but this is a nice one to tick off, playing in my first major. It’s hard to process the fact that I’m going to The Open. I’m looking forward to everything – the crowds, it being in Scotland, the Home of Golf, and, yeah, I just can’t wait to go.”

Overcoming Challenging Conditions

Reflecting on the qualifying rounds, Nolan mentioned the challenging weather conditions. “It was a long day with a lot of different weather conditions, so you had to adapt all day and just keep the ball in play as best as possible,” he said. He made four birdies and a bogey in his opening 69 and, while he was inside the top four after following birdies at the fourth, ninth, and 11th with a bogey at the 16th, he had to make par saves at the 17th and 18th to secure his dream ticket.

Confidence Under Pressure

Nolan displayed remarkable confidence, especially during his crucial par putts. “I was actually quite confident,” he said of his par putt at the last. “I actually had a six-footer on 17 and another one again on 18. I was putting well, especially in the afternoon. So I just said I’d give it a roll. And if it didn’t go in, I’d still have a chance to get to Troon.”

4 feet down the hill on 18 for the Irish amateur Liam Nolan to post 5 under and looks to have a very good chance to look up a spot in the open championship now 👊☘️👊☘️@TheOpen @acaseofthegolf1 @galwaygolfclub pic.twitter.com/T45GL4uLWJ

— Irish Amateur golf info (@amateur_info) July 2, 2024

Preparing for The Open

Nolan, who will join fellow Irish golfers Tom McKibbin and major winners Padraig Harrington, Darren Clarke, Rory McIlroy, and Shane Lowry at Royal Troon, is eagerly preparing for the event. “A major championship is the pinnacle of golf. So to get to play (in an event with) Tiger, Rory McIlroy, all the best players in the world, yeah, that’s as good as it gets.”

Recent Form and Future Plans

Nolan, who recently graduated from the University of Galway with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, felt confident about his form going into the qualifier. “I did believe,” he said. “I played very well in the European Amateur last week, I was trending really nicely. My ball striking was very good, which is so important around a windy links. To not be looking for your golf ball is so important. So I knew if I rolled in a couple of putts during the day, I’d have a great chance. And that’s what happened.”

Upcoming European Team Championships

Before The Open, Nolan will represent Ireland in next week’s European Amateur Team Championships in Italy. “I finished college at the end of April, and I’m happy to be just focusing on golf at the moment,” he said. “We have the European Team Championships next week in Italy with Team Ireland, and I’m really looking forward to that week. We got bronze last year, so hoping to go a couple better this year. And then it’s on to Troon so I really have to do a lot of planning now. It’s good planning, though, fun planning. I’ll enjoy doing that. I will just try to sort out my next three weeks as well as I can. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Other Notable Performances

Hutsby shot rounds of 67 and 69 at Dundonald to top the qualifiers by two shots from Nolan and Hidalgo, who eagled the last from 130 yards as Scot Jack McDonald came through a three-way playoff for the final spot.

Graeme McDowell shot rounds of 72 and 73 to miss out by three shots at Royal Cinque Ports, where Matthew Southgate topped the qualifiers by three shots on six-under from Southport’s Elvis Smylie and Spanish amateur Jaime Montojo. Ireland’s Alex Maguire played alongside Sergio Garcia at West Lancashire but missed out by nine shots as they were put on the clock. Garcia, aiming for his 100th major, failed to qualify by two strokes. Niall Kearney shot rounds of 69 and 71 at Burnham and Berrow to finish three shots outside a playoff for two spots, with Justin Rose and amateur Dominic Clemons topping the leaderboard on eight-under.

Davy Fitzgerald leave’s Waterford – Galway or Dublin next?

Davy Fitzgerald Resigns as Waterford Hurling Manager

Davy Fitzgerald has announced his resignation as Waterford hurling manager after two seasons. The Clare native, who had another year remaining on his three-year contract, decided to step down from his position.

Fitzgerald’s Tenure and Achievements

Fitzgerald, who previously managed Waterford from 2008 to 2011, returned to the helm following the 2022 season. During his tenure, he led Waterford to notable victories in the Munster Senior Hurling Championship, including wins over Tipperary in 2023 and Cork at the start of the 2024 campaign. However, despite these successes, the team ultimately did not advance from the province in both years.

Official Statement from Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald confirmed his resignation in a statement released on Tuesday night. He expressed his gratitude to the players and his backroom team, highlighting their efforts and the narrow margins that prevented the team from making Munster’s top three and progressing to the 2024 All-Ireland championship.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as manager of the Waterford senior hurling team,” Fitzgerald stated. “I would like to sincerely thank the players for their efforts over the last two years. Just the tiniest of margins prevented us from making Munster’s top three this year and progressing to the 2024 All-Ireland championship.”

Optimism for Waterford’s Future

Despite his departure, Fitzgerald remains optimistic about Waterford’s potential. “It’s my firm belief that the talent is there for Waterford to compete strongly at hurling’s highest level again,” he said. He also expressed his gratitude to his backroom team and Waterford GAA officials for their unwavering support during his tenure.

Acknowledgments from Waterford GAA

Waterford GAA chairperson, Sean Michael O’Regan, extended his thanks to Fitzgerald, acknowledging the significant impact he had on the team. “We sincerely thank Davy for his hard work and dedication over the past two years. His impact on the team has been significant, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavours,” O’Regan stated.

Looking Ahead

As Fitzgerald steps down, the search for a new manager begins. Waterford GAA will look to build on the foundation laid by Fitzgerald and strive for success in future championships. But will Davy Fitzgerald end up in Dublin or Galway?

European Rugby Fixtures and Pool Draws for 2024/25

Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup Pool Draws

The road to Cardiff began today (Tuesday, July 2) with the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup pool draws taking place in Cardiff, the host city for the finals.

Key Highlights from the Draw

Stade Toulousain (Investec Champions Cup title-holders) and Hollywoodbets Sharks (EPCR Challenge Cup winners) join Pool 1.
Leinster Rugby and Stade Rochelais rivalry set to reignite in Pool 2.
Vodacom Bulls, Northampton Saints, Munster Rugby, and Saracens make Pool 3 highly competitive.
RC Vannes, making their EPCR Challenge Cup debut, will face Gloucester Rugby and Black Lion in Pool 3.
Fixtures for the 2024/25 season to be announced later this month.
The EPCR Finals Weekend will be hosted at Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium.

The Draw Event

Held in the shadow of the Principality Stadium, presenters Sarra Elgan and Vincent Pochulu, along with ball drawer Elma Smit and official scrutineer Simon Thomas, led the event. The draws were streamed live on EPCRugby.com and broadcast on beIN SPORTS, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

Investec Champions Cup Pools

Pool 1:

Stade Toulousain
Union Bordeaux-Bègles
Hollywoodbets Sharks
Exeter Chiefs
Leicester Tigers
Ulster Rugby

Pool 2:

Leinster Rugby
ASM Clermont Auvergne
Stade Rochelais
Bristol Bears
Benetton Rugby
Bath Rugby

Pool 3:

Northampton Saints
Munster Rugby
Vodacom Bulls
Stade Français Paris
Saracens
Castres Olympique

Pool 4:

Glasgow Warriors
Racing 92
Sale Sharks
DHL Stormers
RC Toulon
Harlequins

EPCR Challenge Cup Pools

Pool 1:

Cardiff Rugby
Connacht Rugby
Toyota Cheetahs
USAP
Lyon Olympique Universitaire
Zebre Parma

Pool 2:

Montpellier Hérault Rugby
Section Paloise
Newcastle Falcons
Dragons RFC
Emirates Lions
Ospreys

Pool 3:

RC Vannes
Black Lion
Aviron Bayonnais
Scarlets
Edinburgh Rugby
Gloucester Rugby

Tournament Format and Schedule

The formats for both the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup follow the pool format introduced last season. Each club will play four matches against different clubs from other leagues, either home or away.

Fixtures, including dates, venues, kick-off times, and TV coverage, will be announced later this month. The season will be played over eight weekends, starting in December, with the knockout stages culminating in the EPCR Finals Weekend at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on May 23-24, 2025.

Investec Champions Cup Key Dates

Round 1: December 6-8, 2024
Round 2: December 13-15, 2024
Round 3: January 10-12, 2025
Round 4: January 17-19, 2025
Round of 16: April 4-6, 2025
Quarter-finals: April 11-13, 2025
Semi-finals: May 2-4, 2025
EPCR Challenge Cup Final: May 23, 2025
Investec Champions Cup Final: May 24, 2025

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Major discussions on Balancing Amateurism with Professional Demands for GAA Players

Gaelic Players Association’s Encouraging Developments Under New GAA Leadership

Positive Relationship with GAA Leadership

The Gaelic Players Association (GPA) has observed encouraging developments in its relationship with the GAA under the leadership of new GAA president Jarlath Burns. Despite this positive progress, the GPA remains committed to addressing several key challenges throughout the year.

Focus on Player Welfare and Competition Structure

One of the primary concerns for the GPA is player welfare and the current competition structure. At its AGM on Monday, the GPA emphasized the need for a balanced fixtures schedule that addresses the condensed nature of games. This includes ensuring a sufficient gap between league and championship, advocating for the implementation of agreed contact hours policy, and guaranteeing adequate rest and recovery periods, along with a defined off-season.

Commitment to Split-Season Model

The GPA insists that these principles must be designed within the split-season window, which already exceeds eight months of inter-county activity. “With changes in the competition structures anticipated for 2025, the GPA continues to strongly support a split-season for inter-county and club activity, which has been viewed positively by 85% of our players,” said CEO Tom Parsons.

Concerns Over Pre-Season Competitions

Parsons highlighted a key challenge: “The new structures were designed with the intention of pausing the pre-season competitions, and the GAA is trying to squeeze too many competitions into an agreed window for inter-county players.” This sentiment is shared by 63% of players, who believe that a split-season reduces the time demands on inter-county players.

Balancing Amateurism with Professional Demands

The GPA also addresses the growing professional and commercial demands placed on its elite amateur athletes. “Balancing commitments to their club, county, personal lives, and professional careers continues to be a juggling act that is becoming increasingly unsustainable,” Parsons noted. He stressed that a shorter season and defined break periods for inter-county players are absolute priorities.

Advocacy for Fair Treatment and Rights

In his address to the AGM, Parsons reiterated that the GPA is the official representative body for male and female inter-county players since merging with the WGPA in 2020. However, he criticized the selective recognition by the leadership of the LGFA and Camogie Association. “It is therefore contradictory of the associations to state that they do not recognise the GPA on other matters that are important to players,” he stated.

Maintaining Amateur Status Amid Professional Pressures

The GPA remains committed to maintaining the amateur status of inter-county players despite growing professional pressures. “We are actively advocating for policy changes that protect our players’ rights, ensuring they are treated with fairness and that their voices are influential in all aspects of our games,” Parsons added. He called on the broader community, including fans and corporate partners, to support the players’ amateur status while respecting their commitment to Gaelic games.

New Leadership in the GPA

Meanwhile, Tyrone goalkeeper Niall Morgan and Dublin camogie star Aisling Maher were elected as the new co-chairs of the GPA’s National Executive Committee, replacing Matt O’Hanlon and Marie Kinsella.

Conclusion

The GPA is determined to champion the rights and welfare of its players, ensuring they are treated fairly and their contributions are valued. As the official representative body, the GPA looks forward to working collaboratively with all associations to protect the interests of inter-county players.