All-Ireland season possible extension into August on GAA Central Council's agenda for discussion.
GAA Announces Changes to Split-Season Calendar for 2025
In a significant move, the GAA has announced updates to the split-season calendar for the upcoming 2025 season. The changes, which have been met with a mix of approval and concern, aim to enhance the playing experience for both club and county players while maintaining the prominence of the club game.
A survey conducted among over 800 players in Cork in 2024 found that 86.5% favoured the current split-season calendar model. This strong support is reflected in successive surveys carried out by the Gaelic Players Association, indicating a consistent preference for the current system among inter-county players.
One of the key changes in the new season is the delay of provincial finals by a week. This adjustment aims to provide a stretch in the schedule, a move welcomed by Irish Times hurling analyst, Nicky English. However, English has expressed reservations about the continuing insistence on extra-time in finals.
The report endorses the current split-season structure, stating that it enjoys the overwhelming support of players and is preferable to the pre-Covid situation. The committee, whose chairman's name remains undisclosed, strongly endorses the model but acknowledges its drawbacks, such as insufficient time between All-Ireland hurling and football finals.
The calendar footprint for the season remains similar to what it was 20 years ago, but with the introduction of round-robin formats since 2018, there are more matches being played within the season. This increase in games could potentially place a burden on volunteers, particularly in finding matchday stewards.
Another concern raised is the constant relaxations of intercounty player restrictions, which some individuals fear could undermine the amateur status of the game. The report suggests that while the current split-season calendar could be improved, it is overall a positive change, providing a better playing experience for both club and county players and greater prominence for the club game.
Previously sharp tensions between club and county over player availability are reportedly gone, according to the report. The GAA has a significant number of members who wish to reverse the suspension of secondary competitions, indicating a growing desire for more opportunities in the club scene.
Despite these changes, the GAA remains committed to maintaining a balance between the club and county games, ensuring that the amateur spirit of the sport remains intact while providing an enjoyable and challenging playing experience for all participants.
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