HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

DOWN GAA Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Coiste Chontae An Dún

DOWN HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

Prepared by: Niall Coulter Date: May 2017 DOWN GAA

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

INDEX Purpose Page 4

Methodology Page 4

Introduction Page 4

Critical Success Factors Page 5

Summary of key recommendations Page 5

Player pathway Page 6

Review findings Page 32

Down Player Pathway Page 32

Emerging Talent squads Page 32

Management Structure Page 33

Squad Structure Page 34

Coaching Principles Page 35

Coaching Page 36

Player Selection Page 36

Emerging Talent Squad Games Programs Page 37

Squad Resources—Equipment & Facilities Page 37

Coaching Personnel Page 38

Emerging Talent Squad Communications Page 38

Club coach development Page 39

Culture Page 39

Schools Page 40

Club Competitions Page 40

Appendix 1 Hurling Review Document Page 42

Appendix 2 Skills Challenge Guidelines Page 43

DOWN GAA

PURPOSE County’s gaelic football program to Everyone involved in the coaching The purpose of the document is to: ensure that the proposals align process, whether it is expressed or with GAA and other applicable not, share the same goals, namely, youth sports models. to develop individuals who are  Establish a player pathway exceptional which will provide a template A review of the proposed changes for the development of to hurling competition formats at Hurlers - Players with the technical hurlers at all levels within the National level in order to ensure skills required to effectively hurl. county that will contribute to that the proposals facilitate both the success of present and planned and proposed changes to future county teams. Athletes - Players with the physical the current competitions. capacity and skills required to

compete  Review existing development Contributors to this process programs, structures and include the Chairman of the Players - Players with the game systems, with regard to National Hurling Development intelligence and decision making development activities, to Committee, Down Coaching & skills (both on and off the field) determine key areas where Games Department, Down required to perform. improvements can be Coaching & Hurling Officers, achieved. Regional Hurling Development The player pathway is therefore Officers, Club Representatives, constructed around developing  Propose key Coaches and Players. these three key skill sets. The recommendations and pathway is based on established timescales for development models. We haven't implementation of a program INTRODUCTION reinvented the wheel but taken to facilitate improvement. best practice from various There is a clear body of evidence from within the GAA and other development models and sports that success at senior level presented a package which METHODOLOGY is dependent on having clearly combines the best elements of A review of existing development defined player development each. programs, structures and systems pathways and models. This currently in situ within the county development approach ensures One of the biggest challenges we involving discussions with all that everyone who is involved in face as coaches is the need to relevant stakeholders was carried player development process, be it encourage players to practice out in order to identify key areas at club, schools, development or outside of the coaching sessions? where improvements can be county squads share the same The Kilkenny player pathway for achieved. objectives and are capable of example includes guidance on skills effectively delivering age testing or skills challenges at each A documentation review and appropriate training. age group. Players are competitive evaluation of a number of existing, and will practice to ensure they will hurling specific, player Our senior county hurlers are the perform as well as they can, development models at club and product of our coaching system especially when all their peers are county level was carried out to and we all play a part in this either in the same mode. We therefore develop a player pathway which directly or indirectly. Multiple have developed a series of skills provides for a consistent and coaches will have influenced the challenges for each age group. integrated approach to player development of a player on their These are only guides and coaches development within the county. journey from U6 through to senior are expected to use their own level. It is therefore critical that discretion depending on the A review of the relevant GAA and everyone fully understands the abilities and capabilities of the other applicable youth sport development pathway and how we particular group of players that development models including the achieve the desired outcomes. they are coaching in any given HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY season, in formulating training identified. These are not SUMMARY OF KEY plans. prescriptive and will need to be

reviewed and approved by the RECOMMENDATIONS The player pathway also various working groups operational The key recommendations are a incorporates practical examples on in Down prior to implementation. summary of the detailed the development of skill sets using recommendations and action basic games and how these can be points arising out of this review and contained within the body of progressed to ensure that we CRITICAL SUCCESS balance the development of the the report. These have been hurler, athlete and player. FACTORS compiled to show the critical  Everyone involved in hurling pathway for delivering the desired The player pathway is designed to accepts that “we are where objectives, within the time frame provide help to coaches at all we are”, and if we want to specified. youth levels in clubs, schools or move forward, then we all development squads and recognise need to embrace change. 1. Approval of the player the skills, experience, abilities and There is no “magic wand” – it pathway and commitment of Down hurling will take a lot of hard work by recommendations – May coaches at every level. It is everyone involved. 2017 therefore designed to provide a framework and guidance on a  A coherent and structured 2. Present to clubs/coaches and process which will assist in plan is developed, makes available online/hard developing the type of player we implemented and reviewed copy – June 2017 all want. on an ongoing basis to generate continued 3. Appoint an individual on a Various clubs already have improvements in all aspects voluntary basis to oversee established player pathways and of player development. the development process development models and each one and support Down Coaching & Games Department will be unique. It is important to  Everyone involved in the accordingly – August 2017. recognise that it is the process and coaching or development outputs rather than the detail process accepts and 4. Draw up a defined Emerging which is important here and for embraces the development Talent Squad Programme for these clubs the process should model suggested i.e. hurler, hurling covering: - November involve checking that the existing athlete and player. 2017 club model aligns and reflects the proposed Down Player Pathway.  Greater support forthcoming  Vision and objectives from key hurling personal  Management structures Player development does not throughout the county, to  Squad structures happen in isolation and there are help the small base of  Squad resources many factors which are outside the volunteers currently  Coaching principles control of coaches but by adopting developing hurling at county  Squad communications a coherent and focused approach level.  Player selection we can all help to develop hurlers  Games programs who are capable of competing at  Effectively use the support the highest level and opportunities offered by 5. Implement strategy – Down GAA, Ulster GAA and November 2017 onwards This report therefore includes Central Council. suggested recommendations which 6. Review effectiveness of would facilitate the changes changes and establish plans necessary to deliver the for 2019 – October 2018 performance improvements DOWN GAA

PLAYER PATHWAY  The player pathway provides  The document provides clear for a consistent and guidance to coaches at all The player pathway has been integrated approach to levels and grades on the designed to provide a framework player development amongst practical application of the for developing schools, clubs and player pathway. development squads at all  The hurler - the technical youth levels.  The pathway as far as skills required to allow an practical ensures that the individual to play.  The player pathway and technical and physical supporting documentation developments outlined at  The athlete - the physical are in no way intended to be each point of the capacity and skills required to prescriptive and coaches will development pathway can be compete. have the freedom/ability to objectively measured. tailor their programs to meet  The player- the game the needs of their individual intelligence and decision players/teams. making skills required to perform.  The player pathway provides a framework for measuring,  The pathway has been managing, and improving developed in line with the player development/ relevant GAA and other performance of at all levels. applicable youth sport development models.

 The player pathway has “Down produces hurlers who incorporated best practice as are technically as good as any in Ireland” currently defined in established models including Paul Flynn the Kilkenny Player Waterford U21 manager and former all-star. Development Pathway. HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY DOWN GAA

4 - 6 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking Running, jumping, throwing Core Values (RJT's) Ground strike of stationary sliotar on both sides.  Basic Running skills Respect  on the toes • for self  using arms and legs • for team mates  jog/sprint • the game • for referees Running  forwards Honesty  backwards  sideways Self-practice  starting/stopping

Jumping  standing jump  moving jump

Throwing  under arm - bowling  over arm

Lift Agility, balance, coordination Game intelligence (ABC's) Two handed jab lift. Changing direction off both feet Basic concepts of Two handed roll lift of static  turning • marking sliotar.  swerving • positions  side stepping • team

Balancing  single leg  squat  skipping

Hand eye coordination  bouncing and catching sliotar  turning over / picking up cones  tagging

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Hands Lifestyle

Grip, ready, lock and swing Hurl everyday

Catching Continually learn and develop • bucket • claw Aspire to be the best

Sliotar control

Dribble • two handed • one handed

Stopping the sliotar

Solo • bouncing • stuck to the hurl

Sliotar hops - one side of the bas

Tippy taps - both sides of the bas alternatively. DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U4-U6 easily manipulated which is but more importantly develop an key to developing a quick effective wristy swing. PLAYER DEVELOPMENT swing and sliotar reactions. Progression to a bigger hurl can be Developing the hurler  Facilitates the development made when the basics have been The emphasis in this phase should of the range and speed of learned and the child is both be about building a solid wrist and stick movement. In competent and confident in using foundation in terms of basic terms of hurl size and weight the six inch hurl. technique incorporating: the appropriate hurl is one which the child can repeat  Fun with activities based on the speed and range of wrist Developing the athlete individual skill development movements achieved with "DANCING FEET" in a non-competitive the six inch hurl. The emphasis in this phase should environment be on developing the basic  Prevents the non-dominant movement skills.  Building the basics of the hand being placed on the top swing and ball control of the hurl. Running on the toes - forwards, including ground striking off backwards, sideways. either hand.  Allows the child to develop balance of the hurl using the Jumping - forwards, backwards, The importance of using a six inch thumb. vertically hurl as a first hurl and training aide  Significantly speeds up cannot be over emphasised. development of other key Mobility - turning, pivoting, skill areas e.g. block, solo stepping, stopping The six inch hurl When used in conjunction with The majority of training should be  Is light, easily carried and bean bag's/sliotars, tennis balls over short times and distances used regardless of the child's etc. will achieve early successes using fun activities. physical development. It is HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

Developing the player technique, good turns, speed etc. By making simple changes to the Children at this age are more as well as balls collected. way the game is constructed we interested in " I " rather than " can more effectively develop the Team ", attention span is short, athlete. and they crave positive feedback/ Developing the hurler attention from the coach. During Game 2. this phase our core values should As per game 1 only use bean bags Developing the player be introduced including and the players have to solo on the The same as game 1 only an equal way back using the 6 inch hurl. number of balls/bean bags are  Respect - for self, team Again award points for toe out and placed at each starting cone and mates and referees correct position of the thumb. groups try to rob each other's nest. Progress to adding a flick off the All players go at once so run the  Practice makes perfect hurl into the hand on the way back. game for a shorter period as Again reward the catch. players are not getting any rest and  Honesty Game 3. energy levels will dip quickly. This Same as game 2 only use balls and variation can be used with any of The basic philosophy of constant bean bags. the games shown above. improvement and learning should also be introduced to the players Game 4. By altering the game we now add replacing the fear of failure with Same as game 3 only give the evasion skills, multi directional the opportunity to learn and players the option of using their movement and introduce the develop. own hurl. players to decision making, communication and team working Training should create the As the players progress then basic skills. maximum opportunity for hurling skills can be introduced individual success and praise. into game 2 for example players on Activities should be fun based, the way out have to jab or roll lift a Regardless of the skills we are short and varied. ball and solo on the way back. trying to develop if we apply the Again reward good technique in same game design principles we relation to running, turns, lifts and will effectively produce the type of Games Development solo. hurler, athlete and player we all In this phase we want games to be want. fun and create the maximum Here by making simple changes to number of successes within a short the way the game is played we period of time. Success should be encourage players to develop framed around players whilst linking their skills sets. demonstrating the correct technique(s) as opposed to single outcomes e.g. who is quickest or Developing the athlete who collects most balls. Agility The same as game 1 only the Game 1. players waiting to go are facing A simple rob the nest game. away from the centre and are Players are split into 3/4's at cones forced to turn before they go. 5m from the set of balls. The first player in the group runs out picks Speed endurance up a ball runs back and taps the The same as game 1 only increase next person in the group who goes. the number of balls or increase the Run for approximately 60 seconds. distance by 1m ( 20 % ). Award points for running DOWN GAA

6 - 8 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking Running, jumping, throwing Core Values (RJT's)

Ground strike on both sides Basic Running skills at speed Respect • static/moving sliotar • on the toes • for self • player static/moving • using arms and legs • for team mates • both moving • jog/sprint • the game • for referees Strike from the hand on both Running at speed sides - player static • forwards Honesty • backwards One handed flick of sliotar on the • sideways Self-practice ground • starting/stopping

Ground clash Jumping at speed • padded hurl • tyre Fast feet • against opponent • forwards • backwards • side ways

Lift Agility, balance, coordination Game intelligence (ABC's)

One handed jab lift. Changing direction off both feet at Basic concepts of speed • Competition One handed roll lift of static • turning • player positions sliotar • swerving • rules of the game • side stepping

Balancing • one leg hop • Squat to jump • high skip • upper body twisting

Hand eye coordination • bouncing and catching sliotar with player static/moving • turning over / picking up cones • tagging

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Hands Lifestyle

Grip, ready, lock and swing Hurl everyday

Catching using either hand. Continually learn and develop  bounced sliotar  thrown sliotar Aspire to be the best

Sliotar control

Dribble • two handed • one handed

Stopping the sliotar

Solo at speed • bouncing • stuck to the hurl

Sliotar hops - one side of the bas

Tippy taps - both sides of the bas alternatively. DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U6-U8 Developing the athlete and create a fun based learning The emphasis in this phase should environment with focus on PLAYER DEVELOPMENT continuous improvement. In this be development of agility, quickness and changes of direction. phase we can introduce Developing the hurler The focus should be on The emphasis in this phase should  Basic communication skills be about consolidating and  Increasing the speed of basic  Basic attacking and developing the skills learned. movement skills and patterns defending principles previously developed

 Building movement, pace  Rules of the game and/or speed into skills  Linking the basic movement

execution. skills into game type  Basic discipline and situations boundaries.  Developing hand eye

coordination and basic  Developing fast feet and Training should allow the catching skills quick movements over short maximum opportunity for bursts individual success and praise whilst  Aligning wrist speed/ movement with touch, ball ensuring that key technical skills control and striking. are developed. Scoring systems for Developing the player games should focus on good The player at this age is full of  Introducing striking from the technique and the correct enthusiasm but still craves hand again working on both execution of skills as opposed to individual attention, positive sides. goals. Performance rather than feedback and the maximum results matters. opportunities for success. It is key that we re -enforce the core values HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

Games Development Developing the athlete Regardless of the skills we are In this phase again we want games Speed agility - Game 4. trying to develop if we apply the to be fun and create the maximum As per game 1 only place a cone in same games design principles we number of successes within a short the centre of each area when a will effectively produce the type of period of time. Success should be player strikes the ball they have to hurler, athlete and player we all framed around players run and touch the cone whist want. demonstrating the correct always facing the river before technique(s) as opposed to single running back into play and striking outcomes e.g. who is quickest or the next sliotar. who collects most balls. Speed endurance - Game 5. Game 1 As per game 1 only once the player Across the river. Divide players up strikes the sliotar across the river into groups of 3/4's. Create two they turn and run backwards linked 10m square areas. Place a across the river and strike another number of balls in each area. ball from the opposite side of the Players have to strike the ball river. across the centre line (river). Here by changing the game set up Reward good movement, striking we are increasing the range of on the move of a static ball, strikes movement, developing multi off non dominant hand, striking a directional speed and speed moving ball, stopping ball and endurance whilst encouraging the striking etc. players to play with their heads up and encouraging them to move so Developing the hurler. that they are always facing the Game 2. ball. As per game 1 only players must wait for the ball to stop before jab or roll lifting the ball. Player has to Developing the player drop the ball before striking off the Game 6. ground back across the river As per game 3 only when the player controls the ball he has to Game 3. drop the sliotar and call a team As per game 2 only the players are mates name that must run on and looking to control the moving ball strike the sliotar across the river. into the hand before dropping and striking off the ground. If the ball Game 7. stops the player can jab/roll lift the Link 3 areas together and the ball group in the middle has to keep the sliotar out of their area by Here we increasing and developing striking to either end area. the players skill sets whilst linking movement and technical skills into Here we are adding skill sets e.g. match type scenarios. doubling on the ball whist developing communication, support and team working skills. Players are also introduced to basic decision making skills who do I call, which direction do I hit the ball etc.

DOWN GAA

8 - 10 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking Running, jumping, throwing Core Values (RJT's) Respect Ground strike on both sides at Speed endurance • for self speed • for team mates • static/moving sliotar Stamina • the game • player static/moving • for referees • both moving Reactions Honesty Strike from the hand on both sides Self-practice • static on the run Discipline

Ground clash introduction to Responsibility shoulder clash

Shooting • points • goals

Sideline cut

Free taking

Lift Agility, balance, coordination Game intelligence (ABC's) Basic concepts of Integrate jab and roll lift into Integrate speed and movement • Competition striking routines into skills games. • communication • team play • creating/closing space

Hands Strength Lifestyle

Grip, ready, lock and swing Using own body weight Hurl everyday • pushing Catching using either hand over in- • pulling Continually learn and develop creasing distance • basic plank Aspire to be the best Static hand pass off either hand HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Ball control

Moving sliotar touch to hand

Two handed high block

Tackling

• Frontal block • ground clash • strike

Hook

DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U8-U10 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

Developing the hurler in relation to game scenarios. • Working on and off the ball The emphasis in this phase should  Linking basic movement into • Communication be on consolidating and linking the skills performance basic skills learned and applying Coaching and games should these in games based scenarios.  Develop the reaction speed of progress into partner and team players based activities to develop and re  Execution of basic skills enforce skill sets. Scoring systems should be further developed  Introducing basic strength for games should focus on good with the gradual introduction activities such as pulling and technique, skills execution and of controlled competition and pushing. team work as opposed to goals. physicality. Players will start to play regular

 Striking and ball control skills matches and it is important that Developing the player should be developed over the focus is still placed on The player at this age is in increasing distances with individual and team performance transition with the focus moving increasing pace on the sliotar. as opposed to match results. from I to we (Team). Development Individual praise and recognition activities should reflect this with should now be an integrated into a Developing the athlete greater emphasis on working with team situation. a partner and working as part of a The emphasis in this phase again team. In this phase we should be should be on the development of Games Development introducing and developing the bilateral agility, quickness and Game 1. basic concepts of changes of direction. At this stage Three players equally spaced across the field. Bring the players skills should be practiced at full • Positional understanding pace. The focus should be on in 10m from the side lines. The • Decision making player on the side line strikes the  Increasing the speed, range ball to the player in the middle and complexity of movements • Creating and closing space who controls the sliotar, turns and HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

strikes the ball to the player on the By altering the game we are linking Developing the player opposite side. They control the ball and adding blocking and catching Game 6. and delivery the ball into the skills to the control skills in game 1. Two players on either side line with middle player who returns to the three players (two attackers and player on the opposite side line. one blocker) in the middle playing Run game for one minute and Developing the athlete between the end line and 20m line. rotate players. Reward good Speed endurance - Game 4. The defender attempts to stop the control, movement and striking. As per game one set up but with attackers winning the sliotar and sliotar's at either end side line. The striking to the other side. Run for 4

sliotar is struck to the player in the balls and then rotate players. Developing the hurler middle who controls and strikes Game 2. back to the player who struck the Here we are adding the execution Divide players into pairs operating ball. The player in the middle then of passing and tackling skill sets, between the end line and 45. The turns and goes to collect a ball introducing competition therefore player on the end line with the struck from the opposite side. Run encouraging the players to develop sliotar strikes a high ball and the for one minute and rotate the their team working, player on the 45 has to catch the players. communication, evasion and sliotar and return a high ball. decision making skills. Where the ball is dropped the Speed agility - Game 5. player should recover control of As per game 1 only shorten the the sliotar and strike. distance between players e.g. set Regardless of the skills we are up on the end line and 20m lines trying to develop if we apply the Game 3. with a player in the middle. same games design principles we As per game 2 with two players at will produce the type of hurler, each line with one player blocking By altering the game we are athlete and player we all want the high ball and the other gaining encouraging increased work rate control of the sliotar and returning and speed into execution of the the high ball. basic skill sets. DOWN GAA

10 - 12 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking Core strength Core Values

Strike from the hand on both Plank Respect sides at speed Squat • for self • long striking • for team mates • short striking Lunge • the game • striking diagonally • for referees Press up Increase the variety of ball strik- Discipline ing to include delivery from the Bridge hand on both sides Responsibility

• short Honesty • long • driven Commitment • flighted • low Self-practice

Lift Flexibility Game intelligence

Jab lift both with static and mov- Stretches Creating and closing space ing sliotar • hamstring Selecting the best option • into either hand • groin • straight to solo • quads Communication • glutes • calf Working on and off the ball Roll lift to burst and delivery • lower back • abdominal

Hands Speed Lifestyle

Catching the sliotar in either hand • straight line Hurl everyday • turning Hand pass from either side on the • reactions Continually learn and develop move • multi directional • endurance Aspire to be the best Catching the high ball

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Aerial ball

Aerial block

• two handed strong block • one handed block

Moving the aerial ball on

• doubling • one handed flick

Catching the sliotar over game distances

Tackling

Hook

Block

Defensive flick

• on solo • on lift • on strike

Using the body in the tackle

• to screen • to shoulder • to stop the run • to mark DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U10-U12 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

Developing the hurler whilst allowing others to develop The emphasis in this phase should their potential in an appropriate competitive environment. Developing the player be on completing the individual The emphasis in this phase should skill sets of the player and fully be on introducing and integrating skills application into consolidating the techniques of match and team based scenarios. Developing the athlete The emphasis in this phase should  Creating and closing space  Skills execution should be be the introduction of structured developed and linked into physical development using the  Selecting the best option multiphase, competitive players own body weight. team based activities.  Communicating effectively in  Introducing basic core a game situation  Striking and ball control skills strength exercises to be developed over  Working on and off the ball increasing distances with  Introducing basic stretching effectively increasing pace on the sliotar and flexibility exercises Players should be encouraged to with the emphasis shifting to  Building stamina and speed target based activities start to think about what they are endurance including scoring. doing during a game therefore the coach should develop games which The distance and repetition of Training should be focused on ensure that players have to make movement patterns should partner or team based skills decisions for themselves. Be increase significantly in this phase development games with prepared for a lot of errors and with players operating at full pace competition progressively tantrums as the players complete over short bursts. Emphasis to be introduced. Coaches should control the transition from I to team. on the correct execution of core the competitive element of games strength and flexibility exercises by matching players of similar rather than the number or abilities and strengths together to duration of repetitions. maximise their own development HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

Games Development and passed. All players to be the middle. The three players Game 1. moving. Run for two minutes. attempt to pass the ball between Three players 15m apart in a them and the blockers attempt to Here by modifying the game we triangle. A player strikes the ball gain possession. All players to be are introducing different skill sets low to another player who controls moving. If the blockers win the ball and encouraging players to execute and strikes low to the third player. then the roles reverse. Run for one the basic skills on the move. All players to be moving. Run for minute. two mins. Developing the athlete Here we are adding evasion, Speed endurance. Game 4. communication, decision making As per game 1 only extend the and further technical skills into the Developing the hurler distance between players to 30m. player’s development. The players Game 2. This can be applied to both games have to think about creating and Three players 15m apart in a 2 and 3. closing space in a competitive triangle. A player strikes the ball at environment. The game reflects a chest height to another player who Reaction speed. Game 5. competitive match situation and catches and strikes to the third As per game 1 only reduce the links the 3 key elements of player player. All players to be moving. If distance to 10m. development. a player drops the ball then it is jab lifted and passed. All players to be Here by modifying the distance we moving. Run for two minutes. can develop the athletic ability whilst developing the same set of Game 3. technical skills. Three players 20m apart in a Regardless of the skills we are triangle. A player strikes a high ball trying to develop if we apply the to another player who catches and Developing the player same games design principles we strikes to the third player. All Game 6. will produce the type of hurler, players to be moving. If a player Three players 15m apart in a athlete and player we all want. drops the ball then it is jab lifted triangle and add two blockers into DOWN GAA

12 - 14 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking Core strength Core Values

Strike from the hand on both Plank Respect sides • side plank • for self • long striking • rolling plank • for team mates • short striking • the game • striking diagonally Squat • for referees • side squat Ball delivery from the hand on Discipline both sides Lunge • short • with twist Responsibility in play • long • driven Press up Confidence • flighted • low Bridge Honesty

Solo and strike from the stick on Commitment both sides

Striking of short stick

Lift Flexibility Game intelligence

Jab lift both with static and mov- Stretches Creating and closing space ing sliotar • hamstring • into either hand • groin Selecting the best option • straight to solo • quads • glutes Communication • calf Roll lift • lower back Working on and off the sliotar • abdominal

Hands Speed Lifestyle

Catch the sliotar in either hand  straight line Hurl everyday  turning Hand pass from either side  reactions Continually learn and develop • from the hand  multi directional • from the stick  endurance Aspire to be the best  good running technique  sufficient stamina for duration Target setting of a game Social and interpersonal relationships within squads

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Aerial sliotar Time management and under- standing the balance between per- Aerial block sonal life, studies and sport.

• two handed strong block Discipline on and off the field. • one handed block

Moving the aerial sliotar on

• doubling • one handed flick • deflected block/tap down

Clean catch

Tackling

Hook

Block

Defensive flick

• on solo • on lift • on strike

Using the body

• to screen • to shoulder • to stop the run • to mark DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U12-U14 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT Developing the hurler Developing the athlete intensities for 60 plus minutes, the The primary focus should be on This is a critical phase for the strength to win and retain ensuring that the players can development of the athlete. Most possession, the power to jump, execute the skills learned in a fully players will go through a growth accelerate and change direction competitive situation and integrate spurt during this period and and the speed to react to an ever these effectively into a team and provides the opportunity for changing environment. game situation. The development developing stamina and speed focus should be on developing endurance. Emphasis should be placed on: Developing the player  Multi-phase integration of This is a critical phase for the skills sets learned ( e.g.  Developing the range and developing the player as this is block, lift, pass/score ) in a application of flexibility and when they start to become fully competitive stretching exercises for key independent, establish their value environment. muscle groups which should sets and boundaries both as an be included in each session. individual and a hurler. Whilst the  Linking skill selection/ player has mastered the basic execution and game situation  Developing the range of core technical skills of the game they ( e.g. when to lift or pull, strength exercises which need to learn how to use those when to catch or block ) should be incorporated into skills in a match situation. They each session. require new and constant  Linking skill selection/game challenges to keep them learning execution into the team  Developing speed endurance and developing. At this age players situation and stamina through high are capable of problem solving and intensity and multi rep should be encouraged to express In this phase particular attention games based training needs to be paid to technique as their opinions during sessions. The players can often lose technical sessions should be: discipline in a competitive The majority of training should be  Games based where players environment. The focus needs to carried out at match pace in a are put into a situation be on doing the right things in the competitive environment with the where they have to think for right way. Similarly talented time, distance and number of reps themselves and apply the individuals tend to dominate being progressively increased. skills learned in a competitive games, now that the full solo is environment permitted, and hard work is The player needs to start increasing physical capacity required to integrate these players  Progressive where the coach including stamina to run at various into a team environment. works up from individual HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

challenges to 2 on 2, 3 on 3 the "D" and try to secure Here by altering the game set up etc. possession. Having won the sliotar we are developing the players that player then has to score. The match fitness, reactions and  Challenging where the coach exercise is only finished when the athletic ability in match context. continually extends the sliotar goes dead. performance boundaries - ok you can point from 45m but Here we add different skills, add Developing the player can you point from the 65? intensity to the game and help to Same as game 2 and add another develop match fitness. More two players on the edge of the "D" The training should be delivered in importantly we are also developing and whoever wins the sliotar has a way that creates a culture of the player’s decision making skills. to try and score. players continually learning and They now have to decide whether improving individually and to jab or roll lift, solo or not, strike Again we are adding passing skill collectively. Coaches and mentors from the hand or stick etc. sets, developing their game should also play a key role in intelligence forcing them to make highlighting the importance of more decisions e.g. do I pass and commitment and building Develop the athlete. go, or do I take the option, they confidence in players. Conditioning now have to think about creating Same as game 2 with both players and closing space, they need to

starting in the plank position. communicate, they need to work as Games Development a team. Game 1. Reactions Player on the edge of the "D" with Same as game 2 with both players a sliotar 3m in front of the player. facing away from the sliotar or Regardless of the skills we are Player has to jab lift the sliotar solo throw the sliotar in front of the trying to develop if we apply the to the 20m line and strike over the player bar. same games/games design Speed endurance principles we will produce the type Same game 2 only started on the of player we all want. Developing the hurler 45m line. Game 2. Speed agility set up as game 1 with a chasing same as game 2 only the two player 5m behind. players start 5m from the top of Game 3. the "D" sprint out and touch the Both players start on the edge of line to start. DOWN GAA

14 - 16 Year Old

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Striking under game pressure Conditioning Core Values

Strike from the hand on both Target based progressive applica- Respect sides tion of core strength exercises for key muscle groups including • for self • long striking • for team mates • short striking Plank • the game • striking diagonally • for referees • side plank sliotar delivery from the hand on • rolling plank Discipline both sides Squat Responsibility in play • short • long • side squat Confidence • driven • flighted Lunge Honesty and willingness to im- • low prove • with twist Solo and strike from the stick on both sides Press up

Striking of short stick Bridge

Lift- under match pressure Speed endurance Game intelligence

Target based progressive activity Creating and closing space to develop the players speed en- • as an individual durance using a maximal aerobic • as a unit/team speed based system primarily through games. Selecting the best option • as an individual Ensure good running technique. • as a unit/team

Sufficient stamina for duration of a Communication game. • on and off the ball

Develop sound functional move- Work rate ment patterns. • on and off the ball

Support • on and off the ball HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

HURLER ATHLETE PLAYER

Hands - under match pressure Flexibility Lifestyle

Catching - under match pressure Stretches Hurl everyday

Hand passing - under match pres- • hamstring Continually learn and develop sure • groin • quads Aspire to be the best • glutes • calf Target setting • lower back • abdominal Nutritional requirements

Lifestyle choices

Social and interpersonal relation- ships within squads

Time management and under- standing the balance between per- sonal life, studies and sport.

Discipline on and off the field

Tackling

Using the body

• to stop movement • to deny space • to deny opposition clean ball • to create opportunity • to create pressure DOWN GAA

COACH NOTES U14-U16 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

Developing the hurler Developing the athlete games based training over The primary focus should be on This is a critical phase for the match distances. performing and executing the skill development of the athlete. Most  Developing match fitness as sets developed in a fully players will go through a second opposed to gym or exercise competitive environment with an major growth spurt during this fitness. increasing focus on developing and period and provides the integrating the player’s decision opportunity for developing a making skills. In this phase we player’s core and engine. Execution should be of exercises should be Developing the player performance based i.e. time or  Introducing position, line and number based and increased This is a critical phase for unit specific skills progressively to develop  Developing all aspects of a conditioning levels.  Introducing the concepts of player's game intelligence playing the man, ball or stick Emphasis should be placed and decision making skills in and linking to specific a competitive match situations  Incorporating flexibility and environment. stretching exercises for key  Introducing the concept of muscle groups into each  Introducing key performance individual and collective session. measures and analysis into functions e.g. the full back coaching sessions. and full back line/goal  Incorporating a range of core keeper. strength exercises with  Developing player ownership performance targets into of the team and linking each session. personal and collective responsibilities to  Developing speed endurance performance. and stamina through high intensity and multi rep The training should be delivered in a way that creates a culture of HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

players continually learning and Here we are adding position Developing the player improving performance specific skills and linking Game 5. individually and collectively. communication and decision An attacker and defender on the Players at this age have matured to making skills into the game edge of the square and an attacker a level of increased focus and scenario. and defender on the edge of the ability to improve any "D". High ball is played in from the competencies with the correct 65. Players on the edge of the attention and application. Developing the athlete square compete for the ball Speed endurance - game 4. whoever wins attacks. Both players, attacker and Games Development defender, start on the 21 m line Game 6. Developing the hurler. facing the 65m and the ball is As per game 4 only vary the fight of Game 1. floated into the edge of the square. the ball into the competing sets of Two players on the edge of the Defender looks to clear and players. square competing for a high ball forward looks to score. Here we add communication, fed in from a player on the 65m. Reaction speed decision making and support skills Whoever wins the ball has to take Same as game 4 only the player into the game situation. a score. playing the ball in can strike any

Game 2. type of ball so both players have to react. Same as game 1 only one player is Regardless of the skills we are designated as a defender and the Here we are adding the execution trying to develop if we apply the other the forward. of different physical skill sets which same games/games design developing match fitness through principles we will produce the type Game 3. of player we all want. Same as game 2 only we add a goal the physical competition for the keeper into the scenario and the ball. defender/keeper has to work the ball so they get a free strike. DOWN GAA

REVIEW FINDINGS

DOWN PLAYER PATHWAY

At present there is no clearly It is therefore recommended that: defined pathway for hurling development within the County. 1. The Down Player Pathway 2. The Down Player Pathway and associated and associated If we are to effectively develop documentation are reviewed documentation are made players then everyone involved and approved by the relevant available to everyone either needs to be singing off the same committees and personnel. online via the County website hymn sheet. or provision of hard copies. Responsibility: Hurling Officer. A Point of contact is established for supporting Timescale: implementation as required. May 2017

Responsibility:

Hurling Officer.

Timescale: June 2017

EMERGING TALENT SQUADS DEVELOPMENT VISION and clear guidance given to We are where we are. The only What are the purposes of the everyone involved in the way to change the future is to Emerging Talent Squads? development process. create it.

Does the county want to develop The Emerging Talent Squads are It is recommended that: players capable of performing at currently aligned with competition the present level or players who age grades and this invariably leads 3. The County's vision and are capable of taking our to issues over whether these associated objectives for the County's Emerging Talent performance at senior to the next squads operate as high Squads are defined to create level? performance or development squad. The reality is that there has a clear way forward for all At which point does the to be a balance of both within the involved in player development process end? development process. development

Why is performance at under age Players do improve by virtue of Responsibility: not being translated into similar being involved in a high Hurling Development performance at senior level? performance environment. Committee

These are some of the key The individual/collectively Timescale: questions that need to be competitive results, performance October 2017 addressed as at present there is no and honors at all under age levels clear vision, plan or objectives in are testament to the excellent relation to the development work being done at every level process. There needs to be within the County. collective agreement on the latter HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

At present U17, U18 and U21 of sports science, strength and It is recommended that: management teams are appointed conditioning, goal keeping etc. by Coiste Banisti, with the U14 and 4. Appointment of Hurling U16 management teams appointed The GDM will work together with Development Coordinator by the Coaching & Games the HDC to deliver an effective (HDC) on a voluntary basis, to Department. Emerging Talent Squad oversee/champion the Programme. development process from There is a lack of people U14 through to U20, with an volunteering for roles within the The duties of the GDM will include: overall responsibility for development process. Emails are delivery of the development  Liaising with HDC, Managers sent out to clubs by the Coaching & program. Role to be similar and coaches as required. Games Department at the start of to the Mourne Academy each year requesting volunteers  Confirm annual training and Chair and will work closely but the response is generally poor. match schedules for U14 and with the Games The posts are generally not U16 squads to ensure no Development Manager advertised which limits the conflicts with football (GDM). potential pool of applicants squads. significantly. Responsibility:  Management of all logistical Hurling Officer and Coaching Agreement and implementation of aspects. Officer an effective policy with direct responsibility for the overall  PR and communication with Timescale: development process would key stakeholders. August 2017 certainly have a positive effect on the development process. The HDC will join senior Coiste Banisti Officers to appoint future Each Emerging Talent Squad will U17 and U20/U21 management have a manager and a number of teams. The HDC will also coaches working together to communicate with Down Senior deliver this Pathway. The personal Hurling Management accordingly. for these positions will be selected The HDC will report every quarter and appointed by the Hurling Development Coordinator (HDC) to a steering group consisting of and Games Development Manager Hurling Officer, Coaching Officer (GDM). This pathway is focused on and Hurling Development the development of managers, Committee. coaches and players to reach their The Hurling and Coaching Officers full potential. will report back to Coiste Banisti on

Each squad will have an appointed a regular basis.

Games Promotion Officer, whether Down or Ulster GAA.

Guest coaches will be invited to take some sessions throughout the year and this may include provision DOWN GAA

SQUAD STRUCTURES At present there are development an impact on squad structures and U21, as follows: squads at U14, U16, U17, and U18. the timing of development We compete at U21 level but there activities.  2017 – 2 X U14, 1 X U16, is little or no development work 1 X U17, 1 X U18 and U21 undertaken at this level. In 2017, two U14 and a single U16 team will be entered into each of The proposed number of A significant number of the National Competitions. In order Teams for 2018 and 2019, for development squad players are to maximize the opportunity for entry into competitions as from junior and intermediate clubs players to benefit from follows: where they will for a variety of development activities, we should  2018 – 2 X U14, 2 X U16, reasons, if left exclusively in this avail of the opportunity to enter 1 X U17 and U21 environment, struggle to achieve two teams at all levels where their potential when they leave the practical. U14 Squad will consist of  2019 – 2 X U14, 2 X U16, development process at 18. We 45 players. U16 Squad will consist 2 X U17 and U20 effectively lose up to 60% of our of 30 players in 2017 and 45 in talent after minor level and this is 2018. Responsibility: reflected at senior level where Hurling Development there are only a small number of The timing and duration of Coordinator (HDC), GDM, players from outside the Ards. development activities would Hurling Officer and County Development needs to continue appear to be based around Secretary through to 20 and beyond if we are competition needs as opposed to Timescale: January 2018 going to realize our full potential. development needs. Antrim by comparison hold their underage 6. Timing and duration of This is not an easy problem to trials in December with squads development squad activities solve but the proposed U20 functional from December/January to be reviewed by the competition at national level gives whereas in Down trials are only relevant management teams us the opportunity to continue the held In March/April. Antrim and planned to ensure we development process and, in all therefore have players in meet player development probability, improve the quantity development squads for 50% and competition needs. and quality of players feeding longer than Down. Development through to the senior squad. plans should be drawn up and time Responsibility: tabled around the GAA calendar to Consideration needs to be given to HDC and GDM maximize development how these players are developed opportunities without impacting Timescale: November 2017 after this point and how they get on clubs or schools. meaningful games. This year's U21 7. Review how the county can competition has shown that there In future trials for all U14 and U16 best develop and retain non is significant talent outside of the players will be held in February / Ards players through to Ards but at present we have no March each year. Players will be senior level, establish a plan means of developing it through to selected as a result of a and implement. This may senior level. A solution may include management review, along with include development development sessions for 18, 19 input from previous year coaching sessions for 18, 19 and 20 and 20 year olds, from August event facilitators e.g. U13 summer year olds, from August through December. coaching days. through December.

The U17's in 2016 were integrated It is recommended that: Responsibility: into the minor set up. The Hurling Officer regrading of U18 to U17 (2018) and 5. In 2017, Down will have 6 U21 to U20 (2018/2019) will have Teams from U14 through Timescale: July 2017 HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

COACHING PRINCIPLES

Players only enter the There is no formal integrated It is therefore recommended that: development process at 13 at approach to individual player which stage the player has gone development and coaching 8. Formal assessment and through a number of key stages in through the development squad tracking of the technical skills their development both technically system. Players therefore can/do and athletic performance of and physically. This can/does limit progress through the development individual players based on their development potential for system without technical/physical the player pathway from U14 example bilateral striking, fast feet, issues being addressed. on, to improve the quality of and agility. This is a limiting factor the hurler, athlete and in the overall development process Similarly there is a lack of a player. and will be covered under the structured physical development "Coach Development and Support" program at any level and given the Responsibility: section of the review. ever increasing physical demands HDC of the game at all levels there is a A player can generally play around clear need to integrate this within Timescale: his weaknesses and even excel at the development process. A pilot November 2017 club or schools level but any physical development program will technical and physical issues are be introduced in 2017 for the 9. A formal feedback very quickly exposed at county minor and U17 development mechanism to club coaches level. squads. The effectiveness of this regarding individual player will be reviewed at the end of the development programs and Development squads at each level season and proposals for physical objectives to protect and will pick up the collective failures development programs produced optimize player development of schools, clubs, previous each age group. is introduced. development squads and the collective coaching system. At present there is little or no Responsibility: Coaching within development contact/communication between HDC squads tends therefore to focus club/schools coaches and almost exclusively on collective development squad coaches in Timescale: performance issues rather than on relation to the programs that November 2017 individual player development. individual players are being There is a clear need to rebalance assigned. There is a clear need to the focus back onto individual improve this communication to not player development. only protect the player but to optimize the player’s development opportunities. DOWN GAA

COACHING At present there is no formal the 2017 GAA Games Development approach to all development integrated approach to coaching Conference including Prof Niall activities to ensure that the which links individual development Moyna and David Herrity. potential within squads in a coherent and development squads is sequential process. The Player The results of this approach are effectively realized. Pathway will provide guidance to clear in that in general we produce Responsibility: development squad coaches at technically gifted hurlers but HDC and Development Squad each level and if followed should limited athletes and players. There are clear benefits in terms of Management provide continuity. This will ensure our young players are developed in developing both the athlete and Timescale: February 2018 a progressive manner from U14 to player to move to a games based U17 level and onto U20. approach to development at all 11. Club coaches should be levels. Coaching within the invited to attend a minimum Our collective approach tends to development process should of three open sessions per focus on developing technical skills reflect best practice and this is year at each development and/or touch - invariably this something that we should be level where the sessions are involves single phase, uncontested encouraging all coaches to organized around specific drills over a short distance which incorporate into their coaching coaching themes to assist in don't reflect game pressures and programs. raising the profile, quality do little to develop a player’s game and standard of coaching at intelligence. ( Eammon Ryan would It is recommended that: club level. advocate that 80% of a session 10. All development squad Responsibility: should be games based i.e. coaches should adopt a HDC and Hurling Officer competitive.) This approach was games based approach supported by recent speakers at Timescale: February 2018 rather than a drill based PLAYER SELECTION At present there are no formal Last year trials were held at U14 and develop young players who guidelines with regard to panel and U16 whilst participation with have the potential to play at an selection but the present system the minor and U21 panels was by higher level. It is important that all appears to be effective in capturing invitation of team management. clubs participating at U14 and U16 and keeping the majority of The pilot program run at U13 grades get the opportunity to be available talent at youth level. within the County last year was represented on Emerging Talent open to anyone who wished to Squads. Conflicts can and do arise in the attend which is similar to the very team selection process which can successful program run by the It is recommended that and do lead to issues with both Meath County Board. Should we 12. Guidelines for squad and parents and players primarily due adopt the principle that if a player team selection to be to the fact that most if not all have wants to participate, learn and prepared for coaches, players never been part of a development develop then they should be given and parents which ensuring squad. Naturally anyone who is not the opportunity to do so? picked on a starting fifteen will feel transparency for all involved. hard done by but if there are clear It is clear that we need to define Responsibility: guidelines on team selection then and formalize the selection criteria HDC & Hurling Development these issues can be effectively and process for both the Committee managed. development panels and the selection of teams for competitive Timescale: November 2017 games. The aim will be to identify HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

EMERGING TALENT SQUAD GAMES PROGRAMS

The Emerging Talent Squads will Ulster Hurling League. 2 games in willingness on the part of the compete in the relevant the Ulster Minor Championship. 2 National Hurling Development competitions as provided by the games in the All Ireland B Minor Committee to assist counties in Ulster and National Councils. championship. 7 games in the developing meaningful games In 2016 the following games Celtic Challenge. programs and we should seek to programs were undertaken: avail of this support. There is also This was supplemented by a small significant opportunity to provide U14 number of friendlies including a meaningful games through the 3 Games days – Ulster GAA Blitz training weekend which included existing competition structures for (April), Ulster GAA Cross Provincial games against Kildare and example at U21 we could enter the Blitz (July) and National Blitz Tipperary All Ireland B competition and/or (August). enter an U21 team into the U21 McGurk Cup. This was supplemented by a small 1 game in the Ulster number of friendlies. Championship. It is recommended that

U16 This was supplemented by a small 13. A review is undertaken and a 3 Games days – Ulster GAA Blitz number of friendlies. meaningful games program (April), Ulster GAA Cross Provincial established at each age It is clear that there is significant Blitz (July) and National Blitz grade. This will be scope for improvement in the (August). incorporated into the number of games arranged for all relevant development plans. This was supplemented by a small age groups with the exception of number of friendlies. the U17/U18 group. A key part of Responsibility: development is getting an HDC, GDM and Hurling U17/U18 adequate number of meaningful 3 games in the Leinster Minor Officer. games and balancing the training Hurling League. 5 games in the to coaching ratio. There is a clear Timescale: November 2017 SQUAD RESOURCES – EQUIPMENT & FACILITIES The County Board ensures that the opportunities provided by the squads is carried out and all Emerging Talent Squads are well National Hurling Development relevant personnel advised of resourced in terms of playing/ Committee and various sources of what resources are available training kit and all match/training coaching resources available Responsibility: day needs. There is a need for the including gaa.ie, Ulster GAA. HDC & GDM Hurling Development process to access and utilize the resources Similarly the appointment of Timescale: January 2018 which exist within the County Martin Fogarty provides a particularly with regard to physical tremendous opportunity to 15. A definitive policy on the development. There are also minor develop a strong working replacement or repair of issues with regard to accessing relationship and to harness his player hurls whilst playing or training equipment and how the undoubted skills and experience to training is agreed and all issue repair/replacement of help improve the development relevant personnel advised. process. players hurls is managed. Responsibility: It is recommended that HDC & GDM There is clear opportunity to promote and utilize the various Timescale: January 2018 14. A review of the resources coaching resources and available to development DOWN GAA

COACHING PERSONNEL

There are a relatively small number in more than one squad will be implemented to ensure that of personnel involved in coaching limited if not impossible which will we adequately resource and managing development again stretch resources. development activities going squads and as result they are forward. involved in managing or coaching Guidance has been provided by the more than one squad. Tremendous National Hurling Development Responsibility: work is done at all levels by this Committee for management teams HDC & GDM group and their collective bank of involved in the Celtic Challenge experience and unique skill sets is competition. It is clear that we do Timescale: November 2017 invaluable. Last year’s U21 not meet the suggested coach/ managers ( G Savage and M player ratios with all our 17. Formalize recruitment policy Mallon ) and P Coulter who was development squads which have and seek additional involved in the U18's, U17's and an obvious impact on our ability to personnel in the various roles U16's are the new county senior effectively develop players. identified by the review managers and this will leave a process to ensure that It is recommended that: significant void at juvenile level. development squads are adequately resourced. 16. A review be carried out to The Celtic Challenge and U20 determine the resource competitions when fully Responsibility: requirements for introduced are scheduled to be HDC & GDM development squads, a plan played at the same time so the established and scope for personnel to be involved Timescale: December 2017

EMERGING TALENT SQUAD COMMUNICATIONS

Club coaches and indeed players supplements, injuries, nutrition  Managements contact often find themselves in a position and codes of conduct which should details where they don't know what/when be addressed. development squad programs are  Outline program including resulting in players not being It is recommended that: matches and planned available for training or matches, training sessions 18. A player handbook, based on clubs organizing training weekends the football model, is Responsibility: etc. There is a need to improve our developed which details as a HDC & GDM communication with clubs, minimum: coaches, players and parents. Timescale:  Protocols on nutrition, At present we do not formally November 2017 supplements, injuries, communicate protocols on behavior, responsibilities strength and conditioning, HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

CLUB COACH DEVELOPMENET AND SUPPORT Foundation and level one courses The U4 to U8 age groups are Whilst the player development are standalone courses with no traditionally an area where there is pathway will help there is an follow up and no formal support not a great depth of coaching obvious need to develop a support mechanisms for new or existing experience and yet in terms of mechanism for new and existing coaches. Coaching up to U12 is development this is a critical youth coaches at club and schools carried out exclusively at schools period. If we get this phase of level within the County. and club level. Players only enter development right then standards the development process at 13 at will improve throughout the It is recommended that: which stage the player has already process. 19. The County designs and gone through a number of key delivers a coach mentoring stages in their development both There is a clear need to move to a program which is designed to technically and physically and it is games based coaching strategy and support and encourage very difficult if not impossible to club /schools coaches will need player development with a coach or train these skill sets into a help, support and encouragement particular focus on coaches player in subsequent years. to facilitate the transition from drills to games based coaching and involved at U4 through to Similarly the development of the training if we are to raise the U10. player needs to be progressed not overall standard of hurling in Responsibility: only within development squads Down. Hurling Officer and GDM but also at club and schools level. Timescale: December 2017

CULTURE

What of the culture of Down Dave Beresford and Clive A separate U13 skills hurling? Are we stuck in the past Woodward both championed the challenge to be facilitated longing for "Glory Days"? Do we concepts of continuous during summer months. take responsibility or do we blame improvement in sport recognizing everyone and everything for what that it is a process or journey Responsibility: is happening? Do we focus on the rather than a destination with Hurling Officer and GDM. one thing that a player does wrong everyone involved. This is in game rather than the 99 things a approach is supported by recent Timescale: March 2018 player did well? Are we guilty of articles by a number of high profile wishing for what could be rather current players. 21. Skills challenge days be than actively making it happen? established for U14's and In terms of improving the standard U16's based on a three There is no simple answer to this of hurling and creating a positive, center model involving particular issue but what we can progressive culture of players from the Ards, Belfast learn from successful teams and improvement for our young and South Down. These sports is that a clear focus on players. sessions would include continuous improvement, learning workshops on nutrition, from what has happened and using It is recommended that: lifestyle, mental health etc. this experience to positively 20. A different skills challenge is influence future performance not Responsibility: incorporated into each of the only improves performance HDC, Hurling Officer and county blitzes held for U8's standards but ultimately leads to GDM and U10's which players can success. participate in during the Timescale: March 2018 down time between games. DOWN GAA

SCHOOLS

At present Down GAA employs 1 From 2017 / 2018 on, Primary It is recommended that: full time coach, Danny Toner and schools affiliated with Hurling clubs part time hurling coach, Liam will be offered an additional 22. A review of the 2017 /2018 Hardy. The provision of school option, hurling before and football Schools Coaching Programme coaching is supplemented by 2 part after Christmas. The Coaching & and prepare a deliverable time Ulster GAA coaches. Games Dept. is also exploring the Schools Strategy covering option of engaging 1 full time both primary and secondary A number of schools at primary placement student each year from school levels to ensure and secondary level are not UUJ. development opportunities providing any or very limited are uniformly provided and competitive or development It is important that any future are effective activities for hurling at present for coaching delivery aligns with the a variety of reasons. Excellent work player pathway. There is a need to Responsibility: has been done with the An Dun clarify what all these coaching Hurling Officer and GDM team in the Mageean Cup but programs are designed to achieve Timescale: February 2018 there remains significant scope to outside of satisfying Key Stage 1 improve development at both and Key Stage 2 objectives to 23. Interactive training primary and secondary level. determine the effectiveness of the workshops to be designed present programs. and introduced for all A lack of meaningful hurling from schools/club coaches based September through to March on U4/U6, U8/U10 and U12/ inevitably has a negative effect on U14 age grades where the development process. Some of coaches can participate and the root causes include insufficient learn from others at the hurling coaching capacity and same level. currently no opportunities to take up both football and hurling within Responsibility: the same year through the Down Hurling Officer and GDM. Schools Coaching Programme. Timescale: March 2018

CLUB COMPETITIONS

A lot of good work was carried out One issue of concern is that not all It is recommended that with regard to juvenile fixtures club teams are competing at significantly increasing the number juvenile level. This can negatively 24. Review the existing of meaningful games at all levels. impact on individuals and in some championship structures and The introduction of Og Sport and cases threatens the long term timings with a view to U21 championship were also viability of some of the clubs increasing the number of positive developments and will be competing at senior level. The teams competing at senior permanent fixtures in the games model of combined teams at U21 level. program going forward. level has proved that we can provide a solution to this problem Responsibility: The failure to complete league if we are proactive in developing Hurling Development programs has again led to issues of club links. Similarly consideration Committee awarding titles and consideration should be given to facilitating should be given to having a play off amalgamations to compete at Timescale: September 2017 between the top 2 or top 4 teams. senior championship level. HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

DOWN GAA

APPENDIX 1 Following discussions with under pressure. Down their confidence to allow Development Coaches etc., the hurlers need to instinctively them take points from following areas were highlighted as make the correct decisions outside the 45m line, on the continuous weaknesses evident in especially when under run and when under Down Hurling that should be pressure. A system of play en pressure. Forwards need to covered at the Coaching Forum. -grained in all players at all become more direct and take This covers player’s attributes and levels, needs to be on their marker as opposed approaches to training. implemented throughout the to always looking to pass off development program. the sliotar. 1. STRIKING Poor striking techniques is an 5. RUNNING MECHANICS 8. STRENGHT AND issue displayed by players Players need to be coached CONDITIONING coming into Development at an early stage of proper Lack of S&C programs in squads. This includes slow running mechanics. This can previous years has affected and open striking that can be include leading off front foot, Down teams when up against easily looked, blocked and strong stance when shoulder the likes of Antrim. This is even dispossessed. One of to shoulder, proper been addressed with the key basics we fail on is technique when completing program’s at advanced striking comfortably on both running drills such as high Development stages but sides. Down teams at knees, butt kicks etc. need to be introduced as different grades finds it part of an overarching difficult to take scores from 6. TEMPO Strength and Conditioning open play, especially when Down hurling can improve Hurling Program in Down. under pressure. the tempo and intensity Down Coaches need to be brought to training and able to deliver S&C on the 2. WIN OWN BALL games. The difference in training field to supplement A lot of players do not have intensity can sometimes be any gym program. the ability to win clean ball evident when watching under pressure, particularly teams play down south. 9. GAMES BASED APPROACH with aerial ball dual's. Areas Players at all grades could Down Coaches need to buy of improvement are clean improve the level of intensity into a more games based catching, reading and and work-rate at training to approach to training positioning under the high bring it into the game sessions. Too much time is ball, defending and scenario and this should be spent with cones and a disrupting there opponent. the corner stone of future games based approach Down Hurlers. This is the key should be integrated into 3. FIRST TOUCH attribute of Kilkenny Hurling. their training sessions, to Down's first touch in ensure sufficient exposure to pressure situations can be 7. INDIRECTNESS the basic skills of hurling, better and sometimes get Some team tactics and such as running, tackling, and exposed when competing coaching is leading to over ball control, catching and against quality opposition complicating hurling in striking. Players want to play who play at a higher Down, at the end of the day games and more games, intensity. Hurling is a simple game. therefore this approach will Down hurlers tend to run the improve the enjoyment 4. DECISION MAKING ball into trouble as opposed factor and help encourage Hurlers can be guilty of releasing direct ball at speed. hurlers to 'play and stay'. making poor decisions when Players also need to improve HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

APPENDIX 2 DOWN HURLING SKILLS CHALLENGES

INTRODUCTION At first sight the skills challenges during a normal training session at encouraging players to may seem like an onerous task. 10m, 20m and 30m. Explain that continuously aspire and improve The challenges at each age group the very best Kilkenny or Tipperary which will ultimately lead to with a panel of 20 players and four hurler i.e. Gold Award, will strike hurling standards being raised at markers can be completed within the sliotar past the 30m cone, all levels. approximately 90 minutes. Silver Award between the 10m – 20m cones and Bronze Award up The data collated from the skills There is no requirement to run all to the 10m cone. This will establish challenges can be used to show the skills challenges all in one not only aspiration to get to the areas that need to be worked on session. Time tabling of the standard but motivation to individually and collectively as well challenges is at the discretion of improve on the distances that the as how effective we have been as each coach for example Carryduff players are currently striking the coaches. have run a skills week where they sliotar. run three different skills challenges Some clubs award certificates at on each day. Coaches may feel that there are the end of the year based on the better skills challenges with regard results of the skills challenges The concept of the skills challenges to ground striking or the distances which has been shown to motivate can be incorporated into normal in the challenges need adjusted both the players and their parents training activities for example in and coaches have the freedom to and helps everyone to focus on the U4 – U6’s we have a ground vary from the suggested model as development rather than just striking challenge. Here we can set they see fit. It is the process of winning. three cones from the starting line setting bench marks and

SKILLS CHALLENGE SCORING SYSTEM

AGE GROUP TOTAL MARKS GOLD AWARD SILVER AWARD BRONZE AWARD

U4 – U6 240 190 + 120 - 189 < 120

U6 - U8 360 290 + 180 - 289 < 180

U8 – U10 480 390 + 240 - 389 < 240

U10 – U12 450 360 + 225 - 359 < 210

U12 – U14 690 560 + 345 - 559 < 345 DOWN GAA

SKILLS CHALLENGES U4 -U6

SKILL TEST Score1 Score 2 Score 3 Testing notes

Striking Player strikes a static 0 - 5m 5 - 10m 10m +

1 sliotar on right side 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player strikes a static 0 - 5m 5 - 10m 10m +

2 sliotar on left side 10 points 20 points 30 points Player roll lifts a sliotar Lift 0 - 10 10 - 20 20 + into a cupped hand for 3 one minute. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player attempts to jab lift Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3

4 a sliotar off a short run. 10 points 10 points 10 points Coach throws a sliotar Hands Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 from 5m for the player 5 to catch it 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player dribbles the 5 + 1 - 5 No Ball control sliotar from end line loss of control loss of control loss of control 6 to 14m line 10 points 10 points 10 points

Stationary Player 0 - 30 30 - 60 60 attempts to balance the seconds seconds seconds + 7 sliotar on the hurl for one minute without 10 points 20 points 30 points

Stationary player 0 - 30 30 - 60 60 + bounces the sliotar on the hops hops hops 8 hurl for one minute without dropping it. 10 points 20 points 30 points

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

SKILLS CHALLENGES U6 -U8

SKILL TEST Score 1 Score 2 Score 2 Test notes

Striking Player runs onto a static sliotar 0 - 14m 15 - 30m 30m +

1 and strikes off the right hand 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player runs onto a static sliotar 0 - 14m 15 - 30m 30m +

2 and strikes off the left hand 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player roll lifts the sliotar and 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m +

3 strikes off the dominant hand 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player roll lifts the sliotar and 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m +

4 strikes off the nondominant hand 10 points 20 points 30 points 0 - 2 3 - 5 6 6 sliotars placed in a 5m square. Lift successful successful successful Player attempts to roll lift each of 5 attempts attempts attempts the sliotars in 30 seconds. 10 points 20 points 30 points 0 - 2 3 - 5 6 6 sliotars placed in a 5m square. successful successful successful Player attempts to jab lift each of 6 attempts attempts attempts the sliotars in 30 seconds. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Hands Coach throws or strikes a sliotar Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3

7 from 14m for the player to catch it 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player solos from the end line to 2 + 1 - 2 0 Ball control the 21m line bouncing the sliotar drops drops drops 8 and without dropping the sliotar. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player solos from the end line to 2 + 1 - 2 0 the 21m line with the sliotar flat drops drops drops 9 on the stick without dropping the sliotar. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player bounces the sliotar on 0 - 30 0 - 60 60 + either side of the hurl for one hops hops hops 10 minute without dropping the sliotar 10 points 20 points 30 points

Tackling Player attempts to block a coach Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3

11 who strikes a sliotar 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player attempts to hook a player Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 12 who is striking a sliotar on the ground 10 points 10 points 10 points DOWN GAA

SKILLS CHALLENGES U8 -U10

SKILL TEST Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Test notes Striking Coach rolls the sliotar in front 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 1 of the player who runs and attempts to strike the moving 10 points 20 points 30 points sliotar as far as possible off the dominant hand.

Coach rolls the sliotar in front 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 2 of the player who runs and attempts to strike the moving 10 points 20 points 30 points sliotar as far as possible off the non-dominant hand. Coach throws a sliotar to the 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 3 player who catches turns and strikes the sliotar as far as 10 points 20 points 30 points possible off the dominant hand. Coach throws a sliotar to the 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 4 player who catches turns and strikes the sliotar as far as 10 points 20 points 30 points possible off the non-dominant hand. Player jab lifts the sliotar and 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 5 strikes as far as possible of their dominant hand. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player jab lifts the sliotar and 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 6 strikes as far as possible of their non-dominant hand. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Player roll lifts the sliotar 0 - 20m 20 - 45m 45m + 7 and strikes as far as possible without catching. 10 points 20 points 30 points

Lift 6 sliotars placed in a 5m 0 - 20 21 - 30 30+ 8 square. Player attempts to roll lift as many sliotars as 10 points 20 points 30 points possible in 1 minute. 6 sliotars placed in a 5m 0 - 20 21 - 30 30+ 9 square. Player attempts to jab lift as many sliotars as 10 points 20 points 30 points possible in 1 minute. HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

SKILL TEST Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Test notes Hands Player throws the sliotar onto Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 10 the stick and flicks into the opposite hand. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player attempts a 5m hand Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 11 pass to a target player on his left. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player attempts a 5m hand Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 12 pass to a target player on his right. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Ball control Coach rolls the sliotar to the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 13 player who has to flick the sliotar into the hand. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Coach throws the sliotar from Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 14 14m and the player attempts a high block. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Tackling Coach moves and attempts to Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 15 strike the sliotar from the hand whist player attempts to hook. 10 points 10 points 10 points

Coach moves and attempts to Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 16 strike the sliotar from the hand whist player attempts to block. 10 points 10 points 10 points

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SKILLS CHALLENGES U10 -U12

SKILL TEST Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Test notes Striking Player starts off on the target 20m 30m 40m line jab lifts catches and 1 strikes over the bar on the 10 points 10 points 10 points

Player starts off on the target 20m 30m 40m line jab lifts catches and 2 strikes over the bar on the 10 points 10 points 10 points move on their non-dominant

Player starts off on the target 20m 20m 20m line facing away from the 3 goal. Player turns and strikes 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar over the bar on their dominant side. Player starts off on the target 20m 20m 20m line facing away from the 4 goal. Player turns and strikes 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar over the bar on their non-dominant side. Lift Player attempts to jab lift the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 sliotar and goes straight to 5 solo. 10 points 10 points 10 points Hands Player in the ready position Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 and coach throws the sliotar 6 to the player’s dominant hand. 10 points 10 points 10 points Player has to catch the sliotar.

7 Player in the ready position Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 and coach throws the sliotar to the player’s non- dominant 10 points 10 points 10 points hand. Player has to catch the

Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 catches and hand passes the 8 sliotar on the move to a player 10 points 10 points 10 points on their right. Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 catches and hand passes the 9 sliotar on the move to a player 10 points 10 points 10 points on their left.

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

SKILL TEST Score 1 Score 2 Score 3 Test notes Ball control Coach strikes the sliotar low Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 from 14m to a player who 10 runs onto the sliotar and flicks 10 points 10 points 10 points into their hand. Coach strikes the sliotar high Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 from 14m and the player 11 attempts a high two handed 10 points 10 points 10 points block. Coach throws/strikes the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 sliotar high from 14m and the 12 player attempts to block the 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar using one hand on the

Coach throws/strikes the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 sliotar high from 14m and the 13 player attempts to double on 10 points 10 points 10 points the sliotar.

Tackling Two players run onto a static Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 sliotar. The test player will attempt to flick the sliotar 10 points 10 points 10 points 14 away whilst the other attempts to strike the sliotar. One player attempts to strike Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 the sliotar whilst the test 15 player attempts to block the 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar. DOWN GAA

SKILLS CHALLENGES U12 -U14

SKILL TEST SCORE 1 SCORE 2 SCORE 3 Testing notes Striking Player jab lifts the sliotar on 30m line 45m line 65m line Player collects the the target line, catches and sliotar and does test 5 1 strikes over the bar using 10 points 10 points 10 points on the way out after dominant hand. the 30m strike.

2 Player jab lifts the sliotar on 30m line 45m line 65m line Player collects the the target line, catches and sliotar and does test 6 strikes over the bar using their on the way out after non-dominant hand. 10 points 10 points 10 points the 30m strike. 3 Player lifts the sliotar on the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 45m line solos to the edge of the D and strikes over the bar 10 points 10 points 10 points without taking a catch using dominant hand. 4 Player lifts the sliotar on the Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 45m line solos to the edge of the D and strikes over the bar 10 points 10 points 10 points without taking a catch using non-dominant hand. 5 Player strikes a static sliotar 20 -45m 45-65m 65m + off the ground as far as possi- ble using dominant hand. 10 points 20 points 30 points

6 Player strikes a static sliotar 20 -45m 45-65m 65m + off the ground as far as possi- ble using non-dominant hand. 10 points 20 points 30 points Solo As per Feile skills test Total of 30 points deduct 5 points for every dropped 7 sliotar and every second over the test time Ball control Player stands on the 45m line Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 and attempts to catch a sliotar 8 hit from the end line. 10 points 10 points 10 points 9 Player stands on the 45m line Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 and attempts an overhead block onto a sliotar hit from 10 points 10 points 10 points the end line. 10 Player stands on the 45m line Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 and attempts to kill and con- trol the sliotar using one hand 10 points 10 points 10 points on the hurl from a sliotar hit from the end line. HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

SKILL TEST SCORE 1 SCORE 2 SCORE 3 Testing notes Hands Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 Set up a triangle of catches and attempts to hand cones - 2 on the end 11 pass the sliotar to a player on 10 points 10 points 10 points line 15m apart with his right. the third on the 14m

12 Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 Use above set up. catches and attempts to hand pass the sliotar to a player on 10 points 10 points 10 points his left. 13 Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 Use above set up. solos in a straight line and attempts to hand pass the 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar to a player to his right

14 Player jab lifts the sliotar, Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 Use above set up. solos in a straight line and attempts to hand pass the 10 points 10 points 10 points sliotar to a player to his left

Lift Player runs between the 14m < 20 20 - 25 25 + Use half the group to and 20m line jab lifting, count scores 15 catching and dropping a 10 points 20 points 30 points sliotar on each run. The total number of picks in one mi- nute is recorded. 16 Player turns and roll lifts < 30 20 - 30 30+ Use half the group to sliotar which is one meter count scores behind him, drops the sliotar 10 points 20 points 30 points and returns to the cones. The total number of picks in one

Hook Player being tested stands di- Attempt 1 Attempt 2 Attempt 3 Set up 2 stations on rectly behind another player the 14m line with the 17 who jab lifts the sliotar, takes player hitting into the his steps and strikes whilst the 10 points 10 points 10 points middle third of the test player attempts to execute keep net. a hook. Block Player being tested stands 5m Attempt 3 Attempt 3 Attempt 3 Set up 2 stations using directly in front of another the 20 and 14m lines 18 player who lifts the sliotar 10 points 10 points 10 points with the player trying and attempts to strike whilst to hit into the middle the test player attempts to third of the keep net. block. DOWN GAA

PHYSICAL

TEST TEST SCORE TOTAL SCORE Illinois speed Player to run the pre- 25 sec + 18 - 25 sec < 18 sec Set up 2 stations agility test scribed course in timed and have 2 players run. going off at once. 19 10 points 20 points 30 points MAS speed Start on the end line < less than 3 3-4 completed 5 completed Run the entire endurance and run to 45m line completed group as one. test and back within 30 seconds. Rest for 30 20 20 points 30 points seconds. Repeat for a 10 points

Plank test Player to hold plank < 30 seconds 30 -45 seconds 46 + seconds Run the entire position for one minute group as one. 21 10 points 20 points 30 points Burpee test Player attempts to < 30 30 - 40 40+ Use half the group complete as many to count scores 22 burpee's as possible within 60 seconds. 10 points 20 points 30 points Push up test Player attempts to < 20 20 - 25 25+ Use half the group complete as many push to count scores 22 up's as possible within 60 seconds. 10 points 20 points 30 points Speed Player sprints from end < 45m 45 - 55 55m+ Split into groups line for a duration of of approx. 6 23 10 seconds. 10 points 20 points 30 points

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

DOWN GAA

HURLING DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY

DOWN GAA

DOWN GAA COUNTY OFFICE: Address: 46-48 Main Street, Castlewellan, Co Down, BT31 9DP Tel: 028 4377 0880 Email: [email protected]

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