As things stand, Wexford will be in the All Ireland Camogie semi-final without having to play a quarter final. This morning we were supposed to witness the great coin toss which would see which of Dublin or Clare would finalise the quarter final line-up. As we now know, that coin toss won't go ahead.
Both counties have taken the decision to refuse to take part in the draw thus effectively ending their interest in this year's championship. The ball is firmly in the Camogie Association's court now with the main hope being that the organisation will be forced into accepting a play-off between the two counties.
Initial reaction to the withdrawal has been resoundingly positive. There may be nothing malicious about the Association's decisions to this point but they have certainly come in for quite a bit of criticism over their handling of the whole affair.
The strongest criticism has today come from Clare Camogie. After first confirming their decision to refuse to take part in the draw, Clare released this statement which really puts into context just how ludicrous this situation has become.
The Camogie Association has demonstrated their utter contempt and disdain for every player and member of the Association. How can a governing sporting body justify by any logic the Drawing of Lots(coin toss) to determine progression in Championship?
Clare Camogie have withdrawn from the drawing of lots. A decision that was not taken lightly and may have serious repercussions for the future of these players.
Clare Camogie demands more respect for its players and administrators than what is being levelled at them by the Camogie Association officials.
Fixtures and Structures are devised by Committee, ratified and implemented by Ard Chomhairle - Counties do not vote on these. There is no avenue to question this decision making as Ard Chomhairle hold the final say on all matters.
The decision by Ard Chomhairle not to adjudicate on the merit of Appeals lodged shows the contempt with which the lower units of the Association are held.
The upset and mental anguish that has been forced upon players by the Association, will have deep and long lasting repercussions. Players are inconsolable and feel betrayed.
For an Association to deprive a team the opportunity to advance on merit is incomprehensible and indefensible. How can our most valuable asset, our players, be degraded and mis-treated.
This is a regressive step for the Association and will be of detriment, not only to Clare and Dublin but to Camogie on whole. The Association have passed up an opportunity to address this fiasco with the appeals of both Clare and Dublin.
Thus, in choosing not to do so have left it to Clare and Dublin to up-hold the sporting integrity of the Association.
Suitably strong words for a situation such as this and all eyes are now on the Camogie Association to see how they respond to Clare's understandable grievances.
