Canning and Duffy welcome compulsory hurling helmet

Galway Senior hurler Joe Canning and GAA Director General Pauric Duffy have both welcomed the new rule which has made it compulsory for all hurlers to wear helmets while playing.

Canning was unveiled as the MARC Sports Hurling Ambassador at the launch of their new hurling helmet in Croke Park.

The current All-Star says the rigorous testing of helmets to confirm to safety standards set by both the National Safety Authority of Ireland and the GAA, ensure players will be well protected.

“I think it has to be done, it has been made compulsory by the GAA for everyone to wear a helmet. It’s no good giving out, those are the rules now and you just have to get on with it.”

And Canning believes that safety of young hurlers is also vital.

“It’s great to promote the Marc Sports helmet, especially for young kids coming up who want to wear a helmet that is approved by the safety standards.

“It is the most important thing that kids are looked after if they get a belt,” he added.

GAA Director General Pauric Duffy believes that while some have been critical of the new rule, there is widespread support out there for making helmets mandatory for players.

“There has been a little bit of resistance but I think most people realise at this stage why this is being done,” he said.

“It is purely a player welfare issue for the benefit and health of players. I think at this stage really there is no serious opposition to the move.

Marc Sports have put a scrappage scheme in place, which will run until February 21st 2010, will enable players to “scrap” any make or model of helmet, with or without a faceguard, and receive a discount off a new MARC IS355 certified Helmet.

In addition, MARC Sports’ chosen children’s charity, Make-A-Wish®, Ireland; will receive a donation for every Helmet that is scrapped.