Naas GAA explain why they could not field in Intermediate Final
Naas GAA has released a statement detailing the reasons why they are unable to field a team for the UPMC Intermediate Hurling Championship Final against Leixlip, which was scheduled for Sunday 1 November
Naas GAA Club has this evening released a statement detailing the reasons why they were unable to field a team for the UPMC Intermediate Hurling Final against Leixlip.
The statement, signed by the Naas GAA Hurling Executive Committee, laid out the reasons that led to their decision.
"Naas GAA's Hurling Executive Committee wishes to clarify the timeline and player welfare considerations that led to the regrettable concession of the Kildare intermediate hurling final.
"Our decision was driven solely by a duty of care to our players, 16 of whom were facing two knockout championship matches within 20 hours.
"On Saturday, 24th October, the original fixture was postponed due to pitch conditions. Eleven of our starting 15 intermediate players were also on the matchday panel for the Senior hurling final the following day.
"On Monday, 26th October, the intermediate final was rescheduled for Sunday, 1st November at 11am.
"Subsequently, our U23 knockout hurling championship match was fixed for Saturday, 31st October at 3pm.
"Because 16 members of our intermediate panel are eligible and crucial members of our U23 grade, those amateur players were required to play two intense knockout championship matches inside a 20-hour window.
"In the interest of player safety and to protect the sporting integrity of a county final, Naas GAA engaged with the Kildare GAA CCC to find an alternative date for the intermediate final.
"We requested a postponement to any date across the next two weeks and even offered to play on Sunday evening, 1st November.
"These options were not accepted and the club executive decided to prioritize player welfare over our strong desire to compete for the intermediate title on the pitch.
"Naas GAA fields teams with equal pride across all grades. Our players worked tirelessly to reach this final, and we remain fully prepared and available to play this match at a rescheduled date.
"We respectfully request the County Board to give this due consideration so this championship can be decided fairly on the field.
"Naas GAA Hurling Executive Committee
C.L.G. Nás na Ríogh"
