*Sixmilebridge’s Dylan Downes will be eligible for the minor grade in 2020. Photograph: Martin Connolly
Two Clare corner backs are part of Brian Coffey’s county minor hurling management for 2020.
Tipperary native Coffey was in charge of the Clare U15 side that won the Arrabawn Title in 2018, becoming the first outfit to do so since 1999. A member of the Banner Club in Ennis he was proposed to the post ahead of outgoing manager Fergal Lynch at the October meeting of the Clare County Board.
On Saturday last, the first trial took place as the process begins on putting the 2020 county panel in place. In Clonlara, a first look was given at the management team Coffey has put in place.
2016 National League winner Oisin O’Brien will be coaching the side along with Éire Óg’s Niall O’Connor. O’Brien was involved with the Clonlara minor hurlers that reached the county semi-final this year while O’Connor who is the son of ex Clare joint manager Gerry has previously been trainer of Wolfe Tones and Killanena.
Current Crusheen boss, James Carrig who also led Wolfe Tones to the 2015 Munster club intermediate title is on board as a selector. Ex Clare U21 hurler, Alphie Rodgers who was in charge of the Scariff/Ogonnelloe side that won the 2018 Minor B title is also a selector as is Sixmilebridge’s Terence Chaplin, he was manager of the Bridge’s intermediate side in 2018.
All-Ireland winning U21 captain, Paul Flanagan is also part of the management. The Ard Scoil Ris teacher is currently travelling but will link up with the management closer to championship time.
