Kerry must match Tyrone
Reflecting on the "doom and gloom" that surrounded Kerry's exit from this year's All Ireland series, the chairman disagreed with views that Gaelic football had changed "utterly for the worst" and the game was in a serious state of decline within the county.
"In the wake of this game and the final, there was a clamour to change the rules and make sure that all teams play a certain type of game. It is my opinion that there was no need for the hysteria that emanated from certain quarters. Hunger, determination, will to win, and meticulous planning should not be criticised but admired. On behalf of everybody in Kerry, I warmly congratulate Tyrone on winning their first All Ireland title," he added.
Making a point of thanking the outgoing management singling out Páidi Ó Sé and wishing him well in Westmeath Mr Walsh said the talent, skill and dedication of the present panel should not be under-estimated.
"I want the message to go out loud and clear from here tonight that the mood within the Kerry camp is a very positive one He was equally upbeat about the county hurlers, pointing out that this year they played a record number of leagues and championship matches, culminating in "a fantastic performance" against Limerick.
"This year there was a realisation by everybody that it was time to step up or shut up. Pontificating about Kerry hurling was not going to be acceptable anymore. The management had a clear vision of what was required, the players were prepared to put in the effort and above all the clubs were prepared to back plans to allow them give a full commitment to the county team and be released from club duties.
"The latter was the single most important contributing factor to Kerry's success, a realisation by the clubs that the county team must be accommodated and that the club is not the only outlet for our hurlers to display their skill and commitment. If Kerry hurling is to build on what was achieved during the last 12 months then more of the same co-operation will be required." Mr Walsh pointed out that December and January being a non-suspension period posed great difficulties in Kerry because December was often a very busy period for games, particularly in district boards.
"A player suspended in a divisional board semi-final in late November for a serious breach of discipline could play in the final in early December even without his case being heard. I believe it is a matter that has to be re-visited," he commented.
"The one rule that needs urgent attention is the one which allows 30 players on inter-county senior panels. This should be reduced to the original 24. There is no reason in having a panel of 30 players to play a 15-man game. It adds an extra cost to the preparation of teams and also has a detrimental effect on clubs as more players are 'tied' up."
Expressing the view that they should be looking at the game on a continuous basis with a view to improvements, he said that the 'mark, the tackle and the direct pick-up' were aspects of the International Rules Series that should be considered.
If we can commit ourselves to the process of the compromise rules for another ten years, then we should at least look at what is good in the game."
Recalling that one of their referees had been assaulted during the year, Mr Walsh said that the action taken by the Executive sent out a clear message that incidents of this nature had no place in their games. Describing it as 'a very said affair,' he thanked the officers of the Ballyduff club for their co-operation in dealing with the matter so speedily.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
