Experts on call to help players cope

THE Gaelic Players’ Association (GPA) have launched a 24-hour confidential counselling helpline for its members during the festive period.

The service, which will also be open Christmas Day, is seen as an addition to the GPA’s nationwide personal counselling programme consisting of a team of experienced psychologists accessible free of charge to county hurlers and footballers.

Having been surprised by the level of uptake for the counselling service over the first 18 months, the GPA felt it was appropriate that a 24-hour service should be available during the Christmas holidays, a time when personal issues can often manifest themselves.