Smoother Ladies ACL programme hoped for in 2024

WHILE there’s a buzz in the air after back to back National League wins for the Tyrone ladies the focus is soon to switch to club football.

Working with clubs in workshops and taking on board several recommendations from last year the Fixtures Chairperson Paddy O’Brien is confident that the protracted All-County League programme will run a lot more efficiently.

“The longest gap should be just three weeks when Tyrone are lined up in the TG4 All Ireland series,” confirmed O’Brien this week.

“We have taken on board what clubs wanted and will work closely with the men and camogie boards to ensure a smoother campaign. Of course a lot will depend on Tyrone’s success.”

An ACL start date will be firmed up shortly although April 28th has been discussed. A proposal over the removal of semi-finals and finals in the latter stages of the league is still on the clar for the next County board meeting when a decision will be taken by the clubs.

Last year’s All-County League came in for some strong criticism because of its stop start nature. In the early stages some clubs played just one match in the first month, a situation which many complained with detrimental to the players.

As per a recommendation made at the County convention it was agreed that the fixtures committee would meet clubs to map out a better plan for 2024 and the response was positive.

O’Brien confirmed that there has been very good consultation with the clubs, stating that their involvement has been a positive step with a potential change in Under 14 and 16 grades one of the other key proposals discussed.

“Having consulted with the clubs the plan would be to have a different structure in the age grades. It will mean that teams will be in competition through the entire championships and clubs will have something to play for right through. We have taken ideas from several quarters and the clubs have bought in,” explained Paddy.

The under 14 league is due to start on proposed February 18th with the Minors potential start date on March 24th, although these are still to be finalised and approved . The Tyrone feile dates are also planned for April 13th/14th .

The County fixtures committee have worked closely with the Ulster and national fixtures plan but it is clear dates are at a premium across the board and fixture makers in the County will be working closely in conjunction with the inter county management teams, with a clutch of Ulster youth fixtures already pencilled in.

The fact the Tyrone ACL is so competitive is also a major consideration.

While other counties are happy to water down their league competitions Tyrone clubs are keen to maintain the quality of their adult leagues.