If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, Fitzgerald urges hurling officials

Davy Fitzgerald has reminded GAA officials there is little wrong with the game of hurling after one of its greatest seasons.

In recent weeks, GAA president Liam O’Neill has spoken of introducing the black card to hurling and the standing playing rules committee are expected to bring forward a new rule on 20-metre free in the wake of Anthony Nash’s shots this past year. There are also plans to make any interference with a player’s faceguard a red card offence.

Clare’s All-Ireland winning manager did not specify which possible rule changes he opposed, if any. However, he is adamant the game as it stands shouldn’t be meddled with.

“My only advice to them is there isn’t too much wrong,” he said. “If there isn’t too much wrong, don’t go fixing it. The most important thing about hurling is let it flow.

“We have enough protective gear. If there is something very bad then we all know the difference between what’s bad and good. Otherwise, leave well enough alone.”

Fitzgerald’s Ireland’s Fittest Family programme will be televised on RTÉ next month and his company has already sold franchise rights to international company Fremantle Media.

As the GAA is currently negotiating its own international TV rights, he is convinced hurling can attract a wider audience.

“I think we have one of the best games in the world. I think so many other counties could actually watch our game. I’m a person who will watch Australian Rules, snooker, darts, anything. Are you telling me there isn’t guys in other counties who couldn’t catch into our game?

“We have a product and half, a gem. Let’s not go messing with it too much. We’re not bad.”

Fitzgerald and his panel embark on a team holiday to the US and Mexico on January 1 before returning ahead of their Waterford Crystal opener against Limerick or IT Tralee on January 19.