By Michael McMullan

IF Setanta win the upcoming Donegal hurling final against St Eunan’s, they will compete in the senior grade in Ulster later this year.

After winning the Ulster intermediate title recently, they cannot compete at that level.

Last season, Burt were in the Ulster intermediate grade.

Should St Eunan’s win, they’ll be at intermediate level with the Antrim senior champions granted a bye.

Cushendall begin their defence of the Volunteer Cup when the Antrim SHC begins this weekend.

Derry and Ulster champions Sleacht Néill are also out this weekend to begin the defence of their titles.

The ‘Dall travel to league champions Rossa, with Carey Faughs and Loughgiel also in the group.

Dunloy, St John’s, Ballycastle and Naomh Éanna make up the other group.

Both group winners advance to the semi-finals, with second and third playing off in the quarter-finals.

There is also a group format in Derry with Sleacht Néill away to Na Magha in the opening round.

ULSTER CLUB SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

SEMI-FINAL – November 15/16
Derry v Down
Donegal (if Setanta) v Antrim

FINAL – November 29/30

ALL-IRELAND SEMI-FINAL – December 20/21
Ulster v Galway

ALL-IRELAND FINAL – January 18

The intermediate and junior championship draws will be made at a later date.