Replying To Loughlenegale:  "You're trying to hold a few positions here that don't really align.

On one hand, you're saying we should narrow focus early and concentrate on the kids who really want to hurl. But at the same time, you're highlighting that numbers are already an issue. Narrowing the base earlier will only make that worse, not better.
You say you're not forcing kids to choose between codes but then suggest that at development squad level they should pick one. In reality, that is forcing a pathway choice, even if it's not at club level.

So we're not back to square one at all. If hurling's future depends solely on traditional hurling families, then the game is already limiting its own growth. The challenge is developing players from non-hurling backgrounds, not accepting they can't reach the same level.

Kids don't improve by avoiding competition; they improve by playing. Skills are important, but games teach decision-making, awareness and confidence in a way drills never will so a blended approach works.

And asking players to choose at U14 is a solution to an administrative problem, not a development one. Some of the best players in the country thrived because they played both codes for longer, not because they specialised earlier.

As for the seniors, patience matters, but patience without progress is just waiting. Nobody expects overnight success, but it's fair to expect clear improvement, accountability and higher standards along the way."