Neil McManus says it will be a "huge honour" for him and many of his Antrim team-mates to play in Ballycastle next spring.

With Casement Park unavailable due to redevelopment works, Páirc MacUílín on the north coast was last week confirmed as the venue for the Saffrons' home Allianz Hurling League games against Wexford and Cork on February 16 and March 16 respectively.

"The move is certainly something I welcome," the Antrim captain commented in the Ballycastle Chronicle.

"North Antrim is a stronghold for hurling and games are always very well supported in the area. Everyone likes to play in big games and I can assure you that they won't come any bigger when Cork and Wexford visit Páirc MacUílín, which has fantastic facilities. I've no doubt that nearer the time there will be a lot of young hurlers and camogs pestering their parents, asking them to take them to Ballycastle to see Antrim play.

"To represent your county and run out in front of people you know that live in the immediate area (of Ballycastle) will be a huge honour, it will be a privilege. We have a squad of players who are working hard together and looking to move the county forward in 2014.

"Hopefully our supporters will be privy to the fruits of our labour when the new season gets underway." Tweet

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