Carlow’s Allianz Hurling League Division 1B campaign begins this Saturday as they take on Offaly in Tullamore at 2 PM. Fans can catch the game live on KCLR, brought to you by Sun Arc Solar Systems.
As Carlow prepares to embark on another season under the leadership of Tom Mullally, former Carlow selector Joe Nolan shared his thoughts on Mullally’s continued tenure on the KCLR Hurling Podcast:
“I think that extra couple of years and Tom’s presence there this year give the new blood that’s in the panel now a chance to settle in. And obviously, Tom is a shrewd man. He is sticking around because he sees something there. He knows he can get another tune out of these lads this year.
“So for me, it’s absolutely key that Tom and the management team have stayed. I think it’s a big step for them and for our county board.”
This marks Mulally’s fifth year in charge, having already guided Carlow to successful campaigns in recent seasons. Speaking last October, Carlow County Board Chairman Jim Bolger emphasized the importance of Mullally’s experience and stability:
“We’re delighted ourselves as well to have a man of Tom’s calibre back with us again for year number five. We’re thrilled with him having Tom’s experience there. With the management team he has in place, he’s going to shake that up a little bit.”
While the hurlers are banking on Mulally’s leadership in Division 1B and the Joe McDonagh Cup, Carlow football is also entering a new chapter. Shane Curran, former Roscommon star and All-Ireland-winning goalkeeper with St. Brigid’s, has taken over as senior football manager, bringing fresh energy and ideas to the county’s football setup.