We should be paid to play, says Ó hAilpín

Inter-county hurlers and footballers should be paid, Cork star Seán Óg Ó hAilpín said in an interview in today’s papers.

The Na Piarsaigh clubman, one of the country’s most high profile players, is adamant that for the entertainment that they give to thousands of people, top level players should be remunerated.

He declared that he would in favour of establishing a central fund, similar to something that had been proposed last year by Kerry footballer Tadgh Kenneally who has now returned to the professional ranks in the Australian Rules Game.

Players, said Ó hAilpín, should get a cut of the funding generated by media rights, sponsorship and gate receipts.

“I would like to see to players get paid. The market in Ireland is very small and there are only five or six games every year that are sold out.

“Maybe it would be worthwhile examining a system relying on gate receipts or maybe even to establish a central fund for players.”

He also said that he will never become a media pundit when he hangs up his boots.

“I do think about what I will do when I retire from playing but I certainly have no interest in becoming a media pundit.

“I have a problem giving out about players especially when they are not being paid.

“They have to go back to their homes and their families after every game and I understand that.’’

He also admitted that he wanted to be a professional sportsman and that he envies his younger brother Setanta.

“I would give my right hand to have had that chance. Setanta has carved out a career in the AFL and is making his living from it.

“I wanted to be like that when I was younger but that’s life.

“I got something else instead that was brilliant, I got the chance to play for Cork at the highest level.’’

Seán Óg was talking with Irish Language newspaper Foinse.

Article courtesy of The Evening Echo newspaper.