Tipperary ready to tackle first ever U23 All-Ireland championship campaign this weekend

Tipperary's U23 camogie team will get their championship up and running this weekend

A new era in camogie gets underway this weekend as Tipperary embark on their first-ever All-Ireland Under-23 Championship campaign.

The newly-launched competition, introduced by the Camogie Association, provides a crucial stepping stone for developing talent, with second teams no longer eligible to enter the Junior and Intermediate Championships.

Tipperary’s opening clash sees them travel west to face Galway this Saturday at Kenny Park, Athenry, with a throw-in at 2pm. It’s a tough opener away from home, but the squad will try to lay down an early marker.

The Under-23s are under the stewardship of Bill Mullaney and his management team, who guided the Premier to last year’s All-Ireland Junior Final.

That experience will be vital in shaping this fresh squad, which features a mix of seasoned juniors and emerging talent from minor teams of the last few years.

Maria Connolly will captain the side, and she’s joined by several players from last year’s Junior All-Ireland panel, including Cashel’s Anna and Lilly Fahie, Grace Maloney, as well as Lorna Ryan (Clonoulty Rossmore).

Rising stars from the Minor ranks also feature, with Ciara Shelly and Ava Bevans among those making the step up.

Tipperary have already shown promise in the Munster Championship, recording a strong semi-final win over Waterford before narrowly losing to Cork in a thrilling extra-time final.

Their championship campaign continues with a home fixture against Cork Saturday week, May 31st, followed by an away trip to Waterford and a final group game at home to Kilkenny on June 14th.

This Saturday’s opener promises to be a stern test, but Tipp will be eager to make a statement. Supporters are encouraged to make the journey to Athenry and get behind this exciting new chapter for Tipperary camogie.