GAA confirm pitch presentation move

The GAA is seeking the co-operation of all supporters present at Sunday’s All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final as part of plans to mark the Association’s 125 Anniversary celebrations with an on field post-match trophy presentation that will engage everyone present at the game.

Plans have been put in place to honour the winning team on a podium in front of the Hogan Stand after the final whistle.

A display involving flag bearers, drummers and pyrotechnics will accompany the handing over of the Liam MacCarthy Cup to the senior winning captain and afterwards the victorious team is expected to parade around the pitch in an effort to make a special connection with supporters in all parts of the ground.

The GAA has devised these plans in an effort to ensure the safety of players, supporters and match officials attempting to allow everyone, young and old, to enjoy the post match celebrations in a risk free environment.

GAA President Christy Cooney said: "A number of special initiatives have been organised so far this year to mark what has been a special year for the Association as we celebrate 125 years of existence.

"Our plans to move the post-match presentation from the Hogan Stand to the pitch is another such initiative and we hope to be able to rely on the full co-operation of our members and supporters in its roll out.

"Tradition is as important to me as anyone but traditional practices should never come at the expense of the health and safety of our players and spectators who between them help make the All-Ireland final the special occasion that it is.

"It has become very obvious to us in recent years after studying our own post match arrangements and those of other sporting bodies around the world, that to continue with the practices that have been in place for many years would be problematic."

He added: "There is an onus on us to ensure that our players, who graft hard for more than 70 minutes and who provide us with excellent sporting entertainment, should not be subjected to the rigours involved with the mass entry of supporters onto the playing area.

"Similarly all of our supporters - young and old - should be able to partake in the memorable celebrations that accompany a win for any county on All-Ireland final day."