Minor boss Doran focused on staying the course despite the LGFA decision

THE ‘Minor class of 2020” should not be left behind despite the halt to youth competitive action across the country, the Tyrone Ladies U18 manager has argued.

Mark Doran was reacting to the announcement last week from the LGFA that all inter-county action at underage level will not proceed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The vastly experienced coach, who is also part of the senior management team, confirmed that the Minor players under his watch would be looked after. And the Stewartstown man welcomed the appeal, being led by Tyrone, to alter the age groupings next year (to U15, U17 and U19) to allow this current group some inter county action.

“I am happy with Tyrone’s call to amend the age groups going forward. I had proposed this a number of weeks ago to our chairperson Donna McCrory. To me it makes sense on so many levels.

“Perhaps I am being a little biased too in that it suits to keep this panel together because I have very much enjoyed working with them.”

Tyrone officials have asked Ulster to bring forward this move with the support of various underage team managements across the province.

Doran, who also coaches the Queens University squad, feels it is a sensible decision on a number of fronts.

“We all know there is a drop off after minor level and the transition to senior football in both the mens and womens game. I feel that with players transitioning from school to university or school to working life it provides a stable platform.”

FULL STORY IN THURSDAY’S STRABANE CHRONICLE