The Gaelic Players Association's annual survey has found that the vast majority of its members believe the inter-county campaign should run for no more than seven months, with a split-season model also favoured by the majority.
The structure and duration of the GAA season is a subject of perennial debate, one that has intensified since the calendar splitting the focus between inter-county (with All-Ireland finals in July) and club games was introduced for 2022.
In the GPA's latest survey, to which 3,676 players responded (2,320 male and 1,356 female), 92% of members favoured reserving no more than seven months of the year for inter-county action, with 89% behind the split season model.
In addition, 87% of those surveyed agreed there needs to be a mandated off-season for all inter-county players, with 83% saying they had less than two weeks' rest between their county and club seasons.
The official return to training date for inter-county GAA players has been set for 21 November, with provincial pre-season competitions set to return after a one-year hiatus for player welfare concerns.
Last month, the GPA reiterated the need for a six-week break between the end of club commitments and any resumption of inter-county duties.
Elsewhere, 64% of male players said that they are happy with Gaelic games' amateur status, though 75% would have no issue with inter-county managers receiving payment over and above expenses.
Male members aired their support for the new football playing rules, while female footballers are now keen to see changes to their game: 92% believe the rules need to be reviewed, particularly around the amount of contact permitted in the tackle.
"What is clear from the GPA Annual Player Survey is that players face significant demands due to their inter-county commitments and everyone within Gaelic games has a duty to ensure their welfare is protected," said GPA CEO Tom Parsons.
"If our players are telling us that a seven-month inter-county season is the maximum they can sustainably commit to, we need to listen or face the consequences of player drain and a threat to the amateur status of our games.
"This is not about money. A seven-month season would reduce the demands on players and also lower costs.
"Our mission is clear, to protect and empower the elite amateur player in an increasingly professional environment. That means ensuring proper standards, fair reimbursement of out-of-pocket costs, genuine rest periods, and opportunities to grow both on and off the field."
Watch the Dublin Senior Hurling Championship final, Na Fianna v Lucan Sarsfields, on Saturday from 7pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player
