O'Connor 'really looking forward' to under-20 campaign

Newly-appointed Waterford under-20 hurling manager James O’Connor says he is “really looking forward” to building on the county’s minor All-Ireland success as he prepares to step into the next stage of a succession plan designed to nurture the Déise’s brightest young talent.

O’Connor, who guided Waterford to All-Ireland glory at minor level earlier this year, confirmed that his selectors and backroom team will remain with him as he moves into the under-20 setup. Crucially, a large cohort of that victorious squad will also graduate with him.

“There's going to be a large number of players from the minor dressing room now moving forward to under-20,” he told WLR. “That’s going to be brilliant again to have All-Ireland medals sitting inside that dressing room this time next year. We’re delighted – it’s a great group and we’re really looking forward to it.” Waterford’s record at under-20 level in recent years has been mixed, but O’Connor is optimistic that the experience gained last season – along with the injection of fresh All-Ireland winners – will ensure his side is competitive.

“I thought Ken [McGrath] was unlucky once or twice this year. They were very close to winning games and he had a very young team,” O’Connor reflected. “With a bit of experience from this year, and now adding those minor players into it, you’d be hoping we’ll be very competitive for the coming year.” Continuity has been a clear priority for the Waterford County Board, with O’Connor’s former teammate Darragh O’Sullivan appointed as his successor at minor level. O’Connor believes it’s a crucial move in maintaining standards across underage grades.

“I thought Darragh was a fantastic appointment – a very experienced manager with huge success at Ballygunner and an All-Ireland at club level. It’s very positive by the county board. Between myself, Darragh and Peter Queally, we’re all of the same vintage and we played together, so there’ll be no bother picking up the phone to each other. That kind of continuity is very important.” With the county’s club championships currently in full swing, O’Connor has also been busy assessing emerging talent, highlighting the quality he witnessed at the Ballygunner v Roanmore clash in the Minor 'A' Final on Wednesday evening.

“What a great problem to have – talented players everywhere. That’s what we’re looking for all the time. There was huge talent on display on both sides, and I think it leaves us in a very strong position heading into next year.”