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David Collins James Crombie/INPHO
elected

Former Galway captain David Collins is the new president of the GPA

The 2012 All-Star and former GPA secretary has been appointed to replace Dermot Earley.

THE GAELIC PLAYERS ASSOCIATION today announced the appointment of David Collins as its new president.

The former Galway hurling captain replaces Dermot Earley, who stepped down as GPA president after three years following his appointment as chief executive of the players’ body in February.

Collins, who has been a GPA member since 2005 and served as secretary from 2013 to ’15, was elected president by the organisation’s National Executive Committee [NEC].

“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,” Collins said.

“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.”

David Collins and Aidan Fogarty Collins putting pressure on Kilkenny's Aidan Fogarty during the 2012 All-Ireland senior hurling final. Cathal Noonan / INPHO Cathal Noonan / INPHO / INPHO

Collins was named Young Hurler of the Year in 2005. A winner of two National Hurling Leagues and an All-Ireland U21 title, the 32-year-old Liam Mellows clubman won an All-Star in 2012, having helped Galway to win the Leinster senior hurling title. He was released from the Galway panel following the conclusion of last season.

“I am delighted the National Executive has appointed David Collins as President of the GPA,” said Dermot Earley, GPA chief executive.

“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.”

GPA chairman 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 three years and look forward to working with both he and David in their new positions.”

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