Galway Hurler David Collins elected new President of the GPA

 

Former Galway Hurler David Collins is the new President of the Gaelic Players Association after being elected by the organisations National Executive Committee.

He replaces Dermot Earley who stepped down as GPA President after 3 years following his appointment as Chief Executive of the players’ body in February.

David has been heavily involved in the work of the GPA for the last number of years. He has been a member of the GPA since 2005 and a member of the National Executive Committee since 2011. David also served as GPA Secretary from 2013 through 2015, a role currently held by Dublin Footballer Paul Flynn.

Speaking after his appointment today, David Collins said: “To have been chosen as GPA President by our NEC which is made up of exceptionally dedicated players and former players who are devoted to the welfare of GPA members, is an absolute honor and a great privilege for both myself and my family. I have always been passionate about our players’ welfare and the relentless work that the GPA is undertaking to better the lives of each and every member. Having been involved as player rep since 2005 and at the Executive level since 2011, I am delighted to be able to continue my involvement with the GPA in this new capacity as President. I look forward to working with our recently elected CEO Dermot Earley and his team to continually strive to enrich the lives of our players who dedicate their lives to our games.”

Recently appointed Chief Executive of the GPA Dermot Earley said: “I am delighted the National Executive has appointed David Collins as President of the GPA. I have known David for a number of years, particularly during his time as GPA Secretary, and also as a member of the National Executive Committee. I have always strongly admired the work that David has done, both on and off the field, and I look forward to working with him closely in his new role as GPA President.”

Chairman of the GPA Seamus Hickey added: “It is fantastic to see the appointment of David as GPA President. David has a keen interest in player welfare and has been an active member of the National Executive Committee to date. I look forward to working with him in his new role as a GPA officer. I would also like to sincerely thank Dermot for his work as GPA President for the last 3 years and look forward to working with both he and David in their new positions”

-ends‑

Notes to the editor

The 2017 GPA Officers are:

• Chairman, Seamus Hickey
• Secretary, Paul Flynn
• President, David Collins

The 2017 National Executive Committee is made of the following members:

• Cathal Cregg, Roscommon Football,
• Philip Greene, Sligo Football (Former)
• David Collins, Galway Hurling,
• Alan Kerins, Galway Hurling (Former),
• Ronan Sheehan, Down Football (Former)
• Mark Ward, Meath Football (Former)
• Paul Flynn, Dublin Football
• Colin Moran, Dublin Football (Former)
• Ronan Sweeney, Kildare Football (Former),
• Richie Hogan, Kilkenny Hurling,
• Keith Rossiter, Wexford Hurling,
• Brian Mulvihill, Tipperary Football (Former),
• Seamus Hickey, Limerick Hurling
• Mattie Donnelly, Tyrone Football
• Conor McManus, Monaghan Football
• Noel Connors, Waterford Hurling
• Stephen McDonnell, Cork Hurling
• Aidan Forker, Armagh Football
• Sean Murphy, Independent
• John Glennon, Independent
• Fergus Clancy, Independent