Moves to return minor level to U18 have been criticised as shortsighted by Connacht GAA chief executive John Prenty. Munster GAA propose minor return to U18 at inter-county level but insist decoupling would remain for the course of the All-Ireland competitions. Players would not be eligible to line out for their club at adult level for the duration their county remains in the minor championship. Prenty is fearful that pushing the minor grade to U18 across the board will lead to more fixture clashes and overburden young footballers and hurlers. The first round of the football academy games are scheduled for Saturday, April 21.

Source: Irish Examiner January 12, 2026 12:34 UTC