Wexford Hurling Selector Calls For GAA Rule To Be Reinstated

Former Wexford hurling star Rory Jacob has called for one GAA rule to be reinstated…

He has called on the GAA to take action regarding the new underage set-up. Previously, the GAA had an u-16, u18, and u-21 set-up, but in 2018, that changed to u-17 and u-20.

Rory Jacob, who is now a selector with the current u-20 Wexford hurling panel, has called on the GAA to reinstate the grade to u-18 and to bring back the original minor grade.

He believes that only exceptional hurlers and footballers will be picked for their adult club teams, and that the rest will be left behind, which in turn, could lead to higher drop-out rates within the GAA and less progression amongst players.

Totally agree. Probably the greatest detrimental decision that has been made in GAA in the last 30 years. Unless you are the exception at 18 and good enough to make clubs adult teams you are basically left to rot. Neglect of the highest degree!! https://t.co/ojWSnBjuHR— Rory Jacob (@RoryJacob) November 20, 2021

Jacob issued the tweet after GAA pundit, Joe Brolly, used his platform to discuss the detrimental effect this new rule change has had.

“Urgently need to restore u18. Losing players in droves at age 17. The new u20 grade in Antrim GAA has been a disaster. Tried a league. Abandoned it. Then a round robin with two groups & only the top team in each group qualifying for the final which collapsed after a few games,” Brolly said.

When the changes were introduced, it was argued that the change from minor (u-18) to u-17 would be beneficial for those completing the Leaving Cert. Most would not be eighteen while in their Leaving Cert year, and the change from minor to u17 would relieve pressure in their final year in school.

With Jacob being a secondary school teacher too, it’s interesting to hear his own perspective.

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