Butler prepared for challenge ahead

New Laois hurling boss Paudie Butler has spoken of the new challenge that faces his charges as they prepare for the league and championship of 2003.

Butler is under no illusions as to what lies ahead for him. A former minor and u-21hurling selector with Tipperary, Butler is a very highly regarded coach.

"Laois have been trying very hard for championship success in recent years and last year they made a very important step by winning division 2 of the National Hurling League.

"The side has good potential, but has not been reaching the Leinster semi- finals with regularity. We will be aiming to achieve that goal," he said.

He added, "There is a long road ahead and we will take one step at a time. We have some very tough assignments ahead in Division One of the National League in February against Kilkenny, Clare, Waterford, Dublin and Galway, but we will be trying to make the most of our chances," he said.

Butler follows in the footsteps of other Tipperary men Paddy and Jimmy Doyle, and Babs Keating as Laois boss.