Sheedy ‘disappointed’ with rumour mill

LIAM SHEEDY insists work commitments were the sole reason for his decision to step down as Tipperary manager last week and has expressed his ‘huge disappointment’ at the rumours circulating since his departure.

“The only disappointing thing over the last few days is that there’s been all sorts of stories and rumours running around. I don’t want to dwell on it but it is hugely disappointing.

“We were very much a unit and there were no hidden agendas. But that’s the rumour mill and you can’t control that. It’s been a huge decision for us to make, myself, Eamonn and Mick. We’ve had three hugely enjoyable years but you’re looking at 16-hour plus days and that is a huge commitment.

“I also want to acknowledge our employers over the last three years, they’ve been outstandingly supportive in what is now a very challenging economic environment. It just isn’t sustainable.

“Just in my own situation, I’ve managed the intermediates for the county, been a senior selector, managed the minors for two years and been involved with the seniors for the last three years. It’s been really hectic and giving that level of commitment takes it toll over time.”

Sheedy, who was speaking on RTÉ Radio’s Saturday Sport, revealed the management team felt now was the right time to step down in order to allow their replacement to prepare adequately for the 2011 campaign. The Portroe native also believes the Tipperary squad are capable of replicating last month’s All-Ireland triumph. “The one thing we’re very comfortable with is that there’s huge leadership in this group of players. I’ve no doubt this group will be hugely successful.”

Meanwhile GAA chiefs have vowed to improve the standard of umpiring at intercounty level with the introduction of a radical new system of training.

Officials at an Árd Chomairle meeting at Croke Park on Saturday backed the recommendations presented them which will see all umpires receive revamped specialist training leading to certification and inclusion on an inter-county panel from which league and championship umpires will be selected.

The proposed changes will require umpires to undertake tests on the rules and the package of proposals are to be forwarded to the National Referees’ Committee for implementation by next year’s senior championships.

However the proposed implementation of a new clock and hooter system has been deferred on the grounds of cost (€250,000 approximately) and practical difficulties.

The motion passed at Congress 2010 called for the use of the Clock/Hooter system on a trial basis in all Allianz League games in 2011. The matter will be revisited at Congress 2011.

It has been confirmed that Conor Counihan and James McCartan will manage this year’s GAA football All-Stars teams for their game in Kuala Lumpur next month.

Kerry manager Jack O’Connor was not in a position to travel to Malaysia. It was also agreed that the All Star Hurling teams of 2010 and 2011 will travel to San Francisco in 2011.