CORK HURLING WILL be dealt a major blow by the decision of midfielder Darren Sweetnam to accept a development contract with Munster.
The morning, Cork radio station C103 reported that the 19-year-old, a regular in both Munster Rugby under-20′s and Cork’s senior hurling fifteen, had indeed decided to focus his attentions on professional sport.
The statement from the Rebels said: ”Cork GAA can confirm that Darren Sweetnam has informed Senior Hurling manager, Jimmy Barry-Murphy, that he will not be available for selection for the 2013 season as he is signing a development contract with Munster Rugby.
Darren is a very talented and while we are sorry to lose him, we wish him every success in his chosen career,” said Barry-Murphy.
“Cork County Board would also like to acknowledge Darren’s contribution to Cork GAA and to wish him well in his new role.”
It is not the first case of its kind and Irish international Tomas O’Leary won minor All-Ireland titles with Cork back in 2001 before opting to pursue a professional career in rugby and signing for Munster.
Cork hurler Sweetnam to sign professional terms in Munster
Updated 15.10
CORK HURLING WILL be dealt a major blow by the decision of midfielder Darren Sweetnam to accept a development contract with Munster.
The morning, Cork radio station C103 reported that the 19-year-old, a regular in both Munster Rugby under-20′s and Cork’s senior hurling fifteen, had indeed decided to focus his attentions on professional sport.
The Doheny’s clubman made his name on the inter-county scene this season as part of Jimmy Barry Murphy’s resurgent Rebels, meanwhile though, he was forging a reputation as a potent attacking threat from full-back in the oval ball game.
TheScore.ie understands that Sweetnam informed the club of his intents after a game on Saturday night and both Munster Rugby and Cork GAA have confirmed the news this afternoon.
The statement from the Rebels said: ”Cork GAA can confirm that Darren Sweetnam has informed Senior Hurling manager, Jimmy Barry-Murphy, that he will not be available for selection for the 2013 season as he is signing a development contract with Munster Rugby.
“Cork County Board would also like to acknowledge Darren’s contribution to Cork GAA and to wish him well in his new role.”
It is not the first case of its kind and Irish international Tomas O’Leary won minor All-Ireland titles with Cork back in 2001 before opting to pursue a professional career in rugby and signing for Munster.
-Additional reporting by Ben Blake
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