Sir – I read with interest in last Saturday’s Irish Times, Pat Gilroy’s views on the future of the GAA (Why are we so wedded to the county system – a British system: Pat Gilroy on the GAA’s future, Sports Weekend, August 29th). As one of the foremost thinkers within the association his observations were quite wide-ranging. Among many talking points, it was interesting to note his scepticism towards modern and more scientific preparations now availed of by several club teams and the ensuing contribution to their development and success. Having watched at first hand many games at varying grades over recent seasons, I have noted a vast improvement in the overall standards on display. Today’s players are fitter, more athletic and focused while possessing no mean level of skill sets when compared with their counterparts from even the recent past. They also have a life. A higher standard of fare and entertainment now prevails. The sciences and the programmes they provide are having a positive outcome here. The present-day Junior B player (Gilroy’s term) no longer fits the old stereotype of a “have boots will travel” attitude.If this cohort shows the same advancement at the administration table as they have shown on the pitch, then Gilroy’s fears for the future can be allayed. The leadership of Gaelic games will be in good hands. - Yours, etc, LIAM COURTNEY , Ballinasloe, Co Galway.