Hawkeye introduction on the agenda at Croke Park Congress

The Camogie Association is to consider the introduction of Hawkeye, the advantage rule and other radical changes to its playing rules at annual Congress in Croke Park today.

The amendments to the playing rules will be discussed and voted upon this evening, while tomorrow’s business at Congress will focus on reports, other motions to Congress, and speeches by the outgoing president, Aileen Lawlor and her successor, Catherine Neary, who will be installed tomorrow afternoon.

President Aileen Lawlor, elaborated on the proposal to allow the use of score detection systems such as Hawkeye during camogie matches where the technology is available.

“The benefit of using a score detection system such as Hawkeye, is the verification of a score and assurance on the accuracy of the final result of a game.

“Another proposed amendment is the introduction of a clear rule around granting advantage including a five second rule, after which a free must be given if no advantage has accrued.”

Lawlor continued: “The advantage motion — if passed — will result in increasing the flow and momentum of games while providing clear direction to referees, players and supporters of the process required to indicate advantage. The use of synthetic pitches is another proposed amendment which would make it possible for competitive games to be played on synthetic pitches, provided both teams are agreeable. This would help to facilitate the playing of games particularly during bad weather or when the option of a grass pitch is not available.”

A full and in-depth listing of all of the motions to Congress can be viewed in the Director General’s report, which can be downloaded from http://www.camogie.ie/news.asp?id=4533