On a very successful week end in Tipperary GAA circles further advances were made with the launch of the “ASH” Programme on Saturday 29th March in the Dome Thurles. This Thurles Fresh Milk sponsored project is aimed at the development of hurling in Tipperary.
“ASH”, short for “Advanced School of Hurling” will see coaching inputs from top coaching experts put in place over the coming months and years Members of the underage development squads gathered in the Dome to listen to presentations and talks on the whole area of player development and player welfare and well being.
Click to view photos from the launch
Present to mark the occasion were officers of Tipperary County Board, Chairman Sean Nugent, Vice Chairman Michael Bourke, and Secretary Tim Floyd. Representing Thurles Fresh Milk were Philip O’Dwyer, Chairman of The Board of Thurles Fresh Milk, Joe Kerrigan CEO Thurles Fresh Milk, Jackie Cahill, Chairman National Dairy Council and John Martin Thurles Fresh Milk.
The two special guests were former Tipperary goalkeeper Brendan Cummins, who gave a talk on his experience in playing for Tipperary and his formula for staying at the top over a long career. Catherine Logan, Nutritionist National Dairy Council gave a presentation on proper diet and nutritional control.
Brendan Cummins made a riveting presentation on his experiences and life with the Tipperary team over a long career. He outlined his formula for success and his life as an inter-county hurler. Commitment to the team and discipline outside of the team were two of his main aims. As he grew older he would commence his training on the 1st November, just to “get ahead of the young fellas”.
He developed a lifestyle akin to a professional athlete in order to be at his best when it mattered. He encouraged young players to “take a chance” and be confident in themselves. He urged players to “Back yourself”, even in the face of criticism, and stay focused and committed.
Catherine Logan made a presentation on proper diet and nutrition for sports people. She encouraged players to familiarise themselves with the “Food Pyramid”. She explained the various types of food and use of those foods. She also spoke on fluids and asked all players to get in the habit of carrying their own fluid bottle with them at all times.
On welcoming all present Chairman of Tipperary County Board Sean Nugent, thanked Thurles Fresh Milk for their sponsorship, without which, projects such as “ASH” could not be carried out. He encouraged all the players in the programme to grasp the opportunity and develop to their full potential. He thanked in particular the parents of the players for their continued support, always present to drive to training matches etc.
Games Manager of Tipperary Coaching and Games, Dinny Maher, made a presentation outlining the “ASH” programme for 2014. The concentration will be on the Hurling Academy programme, where Divisional and County Squads will receive advanced coaching in four specific areas of play. The first will be a series of clinics for underage goalkeepers. Two goalies from each age group, in each division, will be invited into Dr Morris Park, where they will receive special coaching on goalkeeping techniques and skills. These sixty minute sessions will take place in April, May, July and August.
With the opening of the hurling wall in Dr Morris Park, each squad will also receive advanced sessions to develop their skills and techniques on the wall. There will also be special “Defence” and “Forwards” Coaching during the months of July and August for all County Underage Squads.
Finally for 2014 a series of workshops and courses will be held to facilitate managers, coaches and selectors of the County and Divisional Squads. It is hoped to advance all coaches and mentors to Award 1 and 2 Youth level standard.
Overall a very successful seminar gave players a better insight into what awaits them as they progress and
develop in their journey to wear the “Blue and Gold” of Tipperary. We wish them all the very best of luck in their endeavours.
