Butler calls for coaching rethink

August 17, 2009

Paudie Butler
National Hurling Development Coordinator Paudie Butler has called on underage trainers to put more emphasis on coaching the skills of the game, rather than becoming sidetracked by the rules and regulations. "I see eight and nine-year-olds trying to play according to the rules of adult hurling and football," the Tipperary native wrote in the programme for yesterday's All-Ireland hurling semi-final. "And I see grown men on the sideline behaving worse than their children - questioning the referee, shouting out instructions that the children can't understand." The former Laois manager is, however, encouraged by the success of the 'Go Games' model which has been developed by Croke Park for underage games. "In Croke Park this summer, nearly 5,000 will play in Go Games blitzes. I see the same happening in pitches and fields across the country. "What should the adults do in all of this? They should be examples of good behaviour, show respect for the referee - even if he/she gets it wrong sometimes - applaud good play, try not to criticise mistakes."

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