Kinvara company launches novel scrappage scheme

A Kinvara company last week launched a major initiative, which will see trade-ins taken on hurling helmets.
MARC Sports launched its novel scrappage scheme for hurling helmets, which is due to be rolled out nationwide over the coming weeks, in Croke Park where the company also unveiled current Galway hurler and All-Star Joe Canning as its newest brand ambassador.

The scrappage scheme, which will run until February 21, will enable players to scrap any make or model of helmet, with or without a faceguard, and receive a discount off a new MARC IS355 certified helmet. In addition, MARC Sports’ chosen children’s charity, Make-A-Wish, Ireland, will receive a donation for every helmet that is scrapped.
Ballinderreen hurler Mark Ganly founded the company and has been a full-time company director for the past year. He commented, “In recent months, the announcement of the compulsory wearing of protective headgear in hurling at all levels, sparked a great deal of debate and discussion. Much of the discussion focused on the transition for non-helmet wearing players.
“However, while this is an important point, it wasn’t the only aspect that needed to be addressed. There are numerous players, throughout the country wearing old helmets, in unsafe and poor condition. This initiative will enable players to scrap their old helmet, purchase a certified helmet at a reasonable price and in addition, contribute to a worthy charity, Make-A-Wish.”
Speaking about the first ever scrappage scheme run for hurling helmets, director general of the GAA, Paraic Duffy commented, “MARC Sports is to be commended for launching this innovative scheme, which will ultimately increase the safety of our playing members.”
According to Mr Ganly, a primary objective in the development of the MARC Sports hurling helmet was to provide choice for the consumer without compromising on safety.
“It is imperative that the consumer can be offered a helmet that conforms to exceptional safety criteria, while providing quality and choice at a competitive price. The introduction of the IS355 safety specification in 2006 has raised the bar. This standard was developed specifically for hurling and camogie helmets and incorporates stringent impact and shock absorbency tests to replicate the forces experienced in the field of play, such as a sliotar impact and contact with a hurl.”