Hurling clubs join forces

Hurling clubs are finding that playing numbers is a challenge and Clann na Gael (Brownstown and Castlepollard) made an application to Westmeath's Coiste na nÓg to join up with Ringtown at under 17 level.

Following a discussion at the recent County Committee meeting, the new club was given approval for the coming year.

It means three traditionally strong areas have to join up to field a minor (under 17) side.

Barry Kelly, Coiste na nÓg Chairman, explained that Castlepollard, Brownstown and Ringtown are now seeking to amalgamate and there was a good discussion on it at minor board level. They will play at minor (under 17) level only for the year ahead.

The chairman put the new group forward for ratification and there was some discussion, with John Donoghue (Raharney) questioning where the Crookedwood U17 players will now go?

"It's a fair question, but we are dealing with an application from Ringtown," Mr Kelly explained.

"But you have a club as St Vincent's (Ringtown and Crookedwood)," Mr Donoghue pointed out, asking for clarification as to where the Crookedwood players will now go. There was no information available as Crookedwood were still discussing the issue.

Mr Donoghue wondered if the underage fixtures will be impacted, but it was explained they are proceeding as planned. Barry Kelly explained the first round of games had already taken place.

"This doesn't (impact). If this gets the go ahead, they take part as Clann na Gael; it's a three club independent team and it is allowed. It just needs to be ratified here," Mr Kelly explained.

Crookedwood had made no application so Coiste na nÓg couldn't deal with their players.

Frank Mescall explained that all clubs had been met a month previously and the county is now six weeks behind on plans. So, the responsibility is with the clubs to get their house in order, he felt and Coiste na nÓg officers, Barry Kelly and Peter Collins (secretary) have reached out on a number of occasions to assist. "I'm sure Crookedwood will come in their own good time; they have two players at under 17," he said.

"Ringtown have come and we have a duty to sort them out, if you want to put it that way."

The new club was ratified with no objection.

Mr Mescall urged clubs to look forward and plan as Westmeath will have challenges next year also at under 18 level. There needs to be forward planning, he said, reminding clubs of the demographic study three or four years ago, which identified potential problems. Clubs were urged to look at their numbers and see who they could join forces with if necessary.

"We had another dilemma with two football clubs and I see no proposal for it tonight. To me there is a lack of forward planning by the clubs," he remarked.