Dick Clerkin: With all this positivity, why am I uneasy about the GPA’s future?

Like many this week, I was somewhat surprised when I learned about the GPA’s significantly improved deal with the GAA, and the cordial manner in which it was negotiated. Rumblings earlier in the season from the GAA’s inner sanctum gave an impression that relationships between the two associations were on the wane. This new deal certainly refutes that suggestion.

As an active member right throughout my inter-county career, I would estimate that I have personally benefited to the tune of €20,000 (before you faint, divide that by 17) in tangible benefits from the various initiatives driven by the GPA.

Government grants, increased mileage rates, professional services, development programs, playing gear, gum shields, commercial opportunities... All of the aforementioned have been directly or indirectly influenced by the GPA resulting in a benefit, financial or otherwise, to me and every other inter-county player. Many of these benefits are probably taken for granted by players and the GPA doesn’t get the full recognition it deserves for its part in achieving them.