9 hours ago
Frustration for Tipperary fans as ladies football game to clash with men's All-Ireland semi-final
The Ladies All-Ireland quarter-final has been scheduled for Sunday July 6, at 5.15pm, which clashes directly with the Tipperary Senior hurling team's All-Ireland semi-final against Kilkenny in Croke Park, which throws in at 4pm.
In correspondence received by independent Deputy Michael Lowry, a frustrated player on the ladies team said: 'This decision is not only inconsiderate to the dual supporters of both codes, but also makes it practically impossible for players, families, and fans to support both teams – something that means a great deal to Tipperary fans.'
Several of those who have contacted Deputy Lowry say that the issue isn't just the clash of dates, which is frustrating enough, but the close timing of the games adds to the frustration as it removes the possibility of attending both games.
While both players and supporters understand that fixture congestion is a challenge and that some overlap in scheduling is inevitable, it is noted that three of the four quarter-final games are already scheduled for Saturday.
One aggrieved fan said: 'Surely the most reasonable and respectful solution would have been to place the Ladies game on the Saturday to allow supporters the opportunity to be present for both massive occasions in Tipperary sport.'
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Another feels that this kind of scheduling sends a message that is hard to ignore - that consideration for the players and fans of Ladies Football remains secondary.
It's been over 40 years since Tipperary reached an All-Ireland quarter-final in the senior grade, so it is a huge achievement, said Deputy Lowry.
'This squad works just as hard, prepares just as much, and deserves the same opportunity to showcase Ladies Football in front of full stands, not to be hidden away in a scheduling conflict that could easily have been avoided.
'Fixtures should be scheduled with respect and common sense. This is not just a clash of calendars - it's a failure in planning that actively damages the growth and visibility of Ladies Football in Tipperary and beyond.'
