Call for amalgamations at senior level

Ballynacargy GAA Club called on Westmeath GAA to examine a new senior championship structure based on what is in place in Kerry, one of the most successful counties in the country.

The proposed change, put forward at this year's County Convention, would see smaller junior clubs amalgamate to compete at senior level and expose players to a higher level of football, which would have mutual benefits for club and county in the long-term.

Ballynacargy delegate Brian Sheridan spoke on the motion. “We are proposing that planning look at the senior championship and see if we can arrange some group teams. Players from junior and intermediate clubs who would form amalgamation teams.” It would provide extra senior teams and give great encouragement to clubs who have exceptionally good players, and would benefit the county team, he felt.

“I’d like to put that forward because Kerry are successful; they must be doing something right,” he added.

He explained that there could be regional teams from east, west, north or south of the county, which could add depth and width to the county team in time.

Frank Mescall said the concept of regional teams is very good, but it never took off at adult level in Westmeath. Kerry are looking for change to their championship structure, he noted, describing it as the most convoluted in the country and the most difficult to run. “They are looking for change, big time,” he remarked.