The GAA Social

We all knew it was coming, but since Conor McManus retired the question has bubbled- who is the greatest Monaghan footballer? "Well I'd say Conor is greatest Monaghan finisher" it sets the tone of this brilliant insight into the great Nudie Hughes. He's a mural on the gable of the house he was reared, one of 14. All of them still living. Ulster championships, All-stars (in defence and attack) and an icon in Monaghan. In 2018 he was diagnosed with cancer- this week he begins a new treatment after a setback. There's no negativity here though, none. The positive mindset is authentic and real. Moving forward and living his best life. This is the life and times of the great Nudie Hughes (perhaps one of the two greatest footballers to play in Blue and white)

Michael Murphy returns (so does David Clifford) it's all happening on the GAA Social. Does Oisin struggle to take off the orange tinted glasses?

In February 2024, Tyrone were at home to Mickey Harte's Derry. It was a hugely significant game, for many reasons. Feargal Logan got up that morning, excited and ready for action. It was a big day. Until, he collapsed at the top of the stairs. The future was uncertain and he hasn't worked since. Feargal has thankfully recovered and on the 1 year anniversary of his stroke, he looks great and in superb form. Gratitude is his word at present. He's lost friends this year, good friends and many of them of a similar age. His age, Teammates. We reflect on Tyrone winning Sam Maguire in 2021, the covid controversy, fronting up on RTE and the late great Art McRory. Is a return to management something Feragal Logan would consider? Can you work full-time and give enough to inter-county management? Laughs, depth, two games against Kerry that defined a season and a wonderful man who's devoted a life to football, but considers himself to be the lucky one. The great Feargal Logan with Thomas & Oisin on the GAA Social

The GAA Social and all that's in it

This is the fascinating story of Jude McAtamney. From a talented footballing family in Swatragh, Co Derry, Jude played for inter-county U20 for three years- destined for senior football. Then covid hit and the beginning of a remarkable journey. Jude decided he wanted to become a kicker in the NFL. That journey brought him to Serbia, North Carolina, Australia, Rutgers before eventually signing for the New York Giants. When the Washington Commanders came to town, Jude got his chance and took it, nailing all of his kicks. It's a journey of ups and downs, doubts, sliding doors, all before finally making it in the NFL. There's more to come too. On Super Bowl week, this is the brilliant Jude McAtamney

Thomas & Oisin round-up the drama of week two. Bad flight home from London

Oliver McVeigh is known across the land. More than 40 years in sports photography and likely to turn up at any GAA event. The legendry 'Season of Sundays' annual is filled with his craft throughout the years. In this podcast, Oliver picks his favourite photos and explains why. Mugsy's arse, Henry Shefflin, the photo that led to the biggest ban in rugby and then there's the changing room shot. Joy that looks like sorrow. Halfway through, this podcast takes a different turn. Columba McVeigh is one of the 'disappeared' killed and secretly buried by the IRA. Columba, is the brother of Oliver. New year brings new hope and in the past few weeks, a significant new development. A lifelong promise to his mother and a determination to bring his brother home. This is the story of Oliver McVeigh. A brilliant podcast.

New rules, big omissions in playing squads (Dublin and Armagh specifically) and all the reaction to the opening weekend of the Allianz leagues

The GAA Social is back and we have perhaps the greatest manager of all time. Jim Gavin. New year, new rules and the FRC chairman himself, to discuss how it all came about. Recorded in front of a live audience

For this year- he's the best. Paul Conroy is thriving in midfield and believes Galway are good enought to win Sam Maguire. This podcast is packed with insights into the mindset of one of the top performers in modern day Gaelic football. Breaking his leg against Sean O'Shea, his annoyance when people pick on teachers and what's next in 2025. One of the genuine great guys in Gaelic Games.*This podcast was recorded before Paul Conroy picked up 2024 Player of the Year

Former Tyrone gaelic footballer, Successful manager, but managing death as a young man. This is the remarkable story of Jody Gormley. As strange as it may sound, a hugely uplifiting podcast. Perhaps the most powerful we've ever recorded (we don't say that lightly). He revealed to his Trillick players he has terminal cancer after losing the county final on Friday night. Jody has three children and an amazing wife Deirdre. The night before recording this podcast, Jody had a living Wake in Belfast with teammates, friends and former sporting enemies. He calls it "A gathering." Jody Gormley is a lesson in life. A beautiful man

Shane O'Donnell is expected to be named Hurler of the Year 2024. His performances this year, one of the main reasons why Liam MacCarthy resides in Clare over the winter. Shane considered giving up the game after a serious concussion in 2021. He didn't, Clare thrived and there's more to come. This podcast is hugely insightful into O'Donnell, his thinking, the thorny issues of image rights and he explains very clearly who the greatest player in Clare history is.It's another facinating conversation with one of the great hurlers, and decent people of our times.Shane O'Donnell on the GAA Social with Thomas Niblock and Oisin McConville

Sometimes podcasts just stop us in our tracks. This is one of them. Niall Grimley from Madden county Armagh. He didn't play a minute in Ulster championship and League- yet is now in the running for an All-star. It's a remarkable sporting journey that reached its climax on Sunday winning his first All-Ireland- and he's been crucial. Niall also broke his neck and tore his MCL. Unfortunately, there’s more. In November last year, Niall lost his brother Patrick and his wife Ceira in a road traffic accident enroute home from Patrick's 40th birthday party. Children left without mummy and daddy. Kiera McElvanna also lost her life in that accident, the wife of former Armagh All-Ireland winner Kevin McElvanna who made such an impact of us all when he appeared on this podcast earlier this year. It's an immeasurable loss to a community, even one as strong as Madden. Sunday was a mixed day, but a very special one. Niall Grimley is a very special person as we reflect on the summer that was. The championship that ten teams could have won, but it was Armagh who took Sam Maguire home.

We also pick our player of the Year! Not easy

Ronan Clarke- a former teammate of Oisin and a previous housemate with Thomas at University. Three great friends, sitting down for a chat on the week of the All-Ireland final. Memories flooding back. Ronan was 18 when he got the better of Kerry great Seamus Moynihan and collected an All-Ireland. He also won 'Young Player of he year' at the GAA All-stars. Ronan Clarke was some footballer- an even better personInjury, then a collision that had serious consequences. It's a packed life, family, coaching and now back at college because he wants to help people.Ronan Clarke, in a very very very rare interview. Very!

The best game we've ever seen. Ever! The reaction

We look ahead to the All-Ireland hurling final this weekend with an icon of the sport. Davy Fitzgerald will be in Croke Park as a supporter, in an All-Ireland final this weekend- for the first time! There is so much great stuff in this podcast and Davy answers the questions around his future- it is interesting! He's on of the greats, enjoying life, valuing health and driven to be the best. Liked or not.Davy Fitzgerald on the GAA Social Podcast with Thomas & Oisin

The boom is back

Where do you actually begin with Aidan O'Shea? He’s one of the biggest names in Gaelic games- but many, don’t seem to like him?He’s one of the greatest footballers in Mayo history, maybe even this generation, but he’s never won an All-Ireland.Mayo have failed in their quest for Sam Maguire for more than half a century, but the embodiment of that failure, for some, is Aidan O’Shea. Why?In a revealing episode of the GAA Social, Thomas & Oisin dive into who is Aidan O’Shea.8 Connacht senior championships, Minor and U21. Two Allianz League titles and he’s played for Ireland in 2013 and 2015. He’s also three All-stars. That’s more than Willie Joe Padden, Dermot Flanagan, Kenneth Mortimer, Alan Dillon, James Nallen, James Horan, David Clarke & Andy Moran. But is he valued as highly?There was the controversy in 2015/16 which led to a change of Mayo management with Noel Connelly & Pat Holmes in charge for one season. It remains a sore point.He’s lived most of his life, to some degree in the public eye. An Irish Times column when at School studying the leaving Cert, cost him a place at DCU. There’s been harsh learnings along the wayWhat comes out in the podcast is the progressive modern voice Aidan O’Shea presents. He is hugely interesting, comfortable in his skin and doesn’t really care if he’s liked.There’s been low points. Doubts, struggles and hand written letters to his parents home. His house too. Those closest have learned to intercept these ‘notes’ before they land. Dealing with social media and saying no, more than many would realise.His devotion to Mayo is clear. What is the Mayo problem and do we as a Gaelic Games public come down too heavy on an amateur sportsman, doing his best for his county. He's getting married next month, he's a daughter and life is good but will be be back in red and green- definitively?We examine success and scrutinise failures and above all, get to know one of the great footballing talents of our time. We also remember 'Three phone' John O'Mahoney. A man, exceptional at being decent. He also was the man who brought Aidan O'Shea into the senior squad- when he as still at school. O'Shea provides a fine tribute.It’s a 90 minute special with Aidan O’Shea. We think you’ll enjoy

Less than a year into the role, Mickey Harte has stepped down as Derry manager. It was a controversial appointment in September 2023 and after a successful league- Derry in championship fell apart.Thomas & Oisin are joined by Aidan O’Shea on The GAA Social Podcast- Wednesday edition, but the boys took some time to discuss the news of Mickey Harte’s departure and who will replace him

We begin the look ahead to the 2024 All-Ireland final. A Clare/ Cork final. The drive for five is dead and the beauty of Croke alive- but it can be a cruel place

Niall Devlin is one of the top performers for Tyrone this season. He's only 22. He captained his county to an All-Ireland U20 title two years ago and has made the successful step up into senior level. It's his third season with the seniors. We reflect on Tyrone and look forward to the Tyrone Elclassico with the first round championship meeting of Clonoe and Coalisland. Niall won't be playing. He's learned his lesson. Progression, studying, family and football- life was great for Niall.It changed. On March 5th, leaving training at Garvaghy, the Tyrone team were told the Omagh road was closed because of an accident, "Another poor family." It was his family, his brother Caolan. The 30-year-old died instantly in a collision with a lorry and another family feeling the loss of tragedy on the A5. That's more than 50 dead since 2006 on the same road. That number will realistically, increase.Niall is learning to live with loss, his mum and dad too. Football has helped and remarkably he landed back at training within a week "I'm here to play"And play he did, on a wet night against Monaghan, a relegation eliminator of sorts. An emotional night and Niall stood for a minutes silence, for his brother. It's a story of family, Coalisland and Tyrone. It's a deeply personal account, told by a young man who radiates leadership, decency and a role model.This is Niall Devlin. A remarkable podcast and one of the best people, you could ever wish to meet.

The final four revealed. One more step to the All-Ireland final

A former Cavan goalkeeper, for Alan it was trying to fit in when he moved from Dublin as a child "Tractors or football." It turns out, he was pretty good at football and after playing Cavan minors and U21's, Alan found himself in Croke Park playing Kerry for a place in the All-Ireland semi-final. Life was good. It wasn't always that way. Struggling with depression, suicide felt like an option. Alan paved his way back from the brink. That road ultimately led him to the US. Working as a podcaster, a performance coach and now managing New York. He's also on his honeymoon with the brilliant Mary-Kate. Philadelphia Eagles are top of the list, the Phillys too.Life is good. Strength, resolve and being betterIt's Alan O'Mara on the GAA Social Podcast

It's packed, the All-Ireland minor final has been decided and the case for the All-Ireland quarter-finals to be played outside Croke Park

This was a lovely hour with former BBC Co-commentator Peter McGinnity. Winning Championship titles with his native Roslea and St John's Belfast, a player/ manager for Fermanagh and still coaching with Tyrone champions Trillick. Jody Gormley's team are aiming to become the first team since Carrickmore in 2006, to retain the senior championship.There's plenty of laughs, but 70 has rattled Peter, just a little. A fine man, a brilliant voice and another lovely podcast on the GAA Social

The real stuff has finally arrived...

Pete McGrath is a Gaelic football legend. He won Sam Maguire in 1991 & 1994 with his native Down. A lifetime coaching at the great Down/ Armagh nursery St Colman's College, he's coached some of the best players to wear the red and black- from the early days to their biggest. He's had an incredible life. Totally devoted to football, no family, just devotion to faith and Down. He wasn't in the top ten picks for the Down job in the late 80's- but he got the job, on his terms. Success followed.It wasn't all comfortable. A falling out with players, including All-stars Greg Blaney and James McCartan threatened to derail the Down campaign of 1994.One of the more interesting elements of the podcast is how McGrath was forced to change when he was Fermanagh manager. Showing humility after being called out. It shows enormous strength. At 71, Pete McGrath is the senior football manager of Aghagallon and the minor manager of his native club Rostrevor. Modern players are different people now, are they less resilient? In 1994 the UVF burst into a local bar in Loughinisland when the Republic of Ireland were playing in the World Cup. The killed six civilians, wounding five more. Down had an Ulster championship semi-final game the next day. Normality then, seems unthinkable now. It's a remarkable insight into one of the darkest times in our history.There's the Meath/Down saga from 1991, crossing the border with Sam Maguire, 71 going on 41 and runs in the Mournes to clear the head!Nothing off-limits. It's the iconic Mourneman Pete McGrath. Down legend. Forever young

We know the quarter-finalists of the Tailteann Cup and we now know Limerick will win five All-Ireland titles in a row. Don’t we? They picked up a 6th consecutive Munster championship over the weekend, surely now the greatest of all time? Kilkenny may have something to say about that after comfortably picking up another Leinster title, beating Dublin.Th All-Ireland minor semi-finals have now been decided. Derry will play Kerry, while Aidan O’Rourke’s Armagh will play Mayo. Are we underselling the minor product?We also look ahead to the final football championship group matches. With so much on the line, it feels that championship summer may finally have arrived. We’ll see.We also reflect on the phenomenal reaction to the Kevin McElvanna Podcast.It’s the GAA Social, on a Monday with Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville

It was a tragedy that rocked the Co Armagh village of Madden. Still does. Three of their own, killed in a road accident returning in a taxi bus after a 40th birthday in Dundalk. 2002 All-Ireland winner Kevin McElvanna lost his wife Ciara and their four children are now without mum. A life changing moment. Kevin is a surgeon and broke his neck in the accident. He's continuing to recover.For the first time, Kevin explains what happened, how he's coped and what the future holds. It's a remarkable podcast- one of our most powerful. A deeply personal story told with strength and dignity. Perhaps strangely, It's also uplifting, inspiring and laced with moments of laughter.The strength and power of Kevin McElvanna shines through. Madden as a community lost their of their best, but the community survives and thrives. Patrick Grimley, who also died on that November night, would have been proud watching his younger brother Niall tear Derry apart at Celtic Park on Sunday. GAA people. Decent people.This is the story of Kevin McElvanna, on the GAA Social with Thomas & Oisin. A must listen.

Is this Derry team at an end? How good are Armagh? Cork are back, Donegal will regroup and the Tailteann Cup prelim quarter-final draw

This weeks is the fourth anniversary of East Belfast GAA. It all started with a tweet and now the club has more playing members than any other in Ulster. It's a remarkable story. The path, has been challenging. Pipe bombs, graffiti, oil poured on playing surface, threats and just this weekend past, another security alert.The club has not just survived, but blossomed. With more than 1/4 of its players from a protestant background the club is challenging perceptions around the GAA. In a traditionally unionist area of Belfast, the establishment of the GAA club raised eyebrows. Dave thought it made sense in an area with the same population as county Kilkenny to have its own club. This podcast is very different.Love, loss and the birth of Ulster's newest (and biggest) GAA club.This is the story of East Belfast GAA, explained for the first-time in full, by co-founder Dave McGreevy(Podcast recorded as part of BBC 100 anniversary at the Saint Patrick centre in Downpatrick, with a live audience) #BBCComesToTown

Review of the games in hurling and football. Despite the amateur status of GAA- should the sport move to some Friday/ Monday games? Oisin McConville believes it should

This is the remarkable story of Ambrose Rogers. The quiet man of Down, but cut from GAA Royalty. Ambrose is 39. His father Ambrose snr, died when he was 39. That death left a 14 year-old child, the eldest of four, without a dad. A hole that cannot be filled. Life goes on and young Ambrose blossoms into a brilliant young man, a superb young footballer. He captains his county to an All-Ireland final in 2010- but he cannot take his place on the team. The cruciate. Ambrose shocked a nation when he lined out that day- but the call didn't come and Down lost by a point. It's just one of a number of insights into this Down legend.The podcast explores coaching, this current Down team and Ambrose reveals he would love to manage his native county, some day, but not yet.Recorded in front of a studio audience at the Saint Patrick centre in Downpatrick, this is Ambrose Rogers.

A brilliant sporting weekend reflected, plenty of football but Hurling still king

This is a magnificent podcast. Thomas & Oisin have wanted a referee for some time, and the GAA Social landed one of the best. Maurice Deegan uncut and answers all the questions around referees and reveals his new role at Croke Park. The Laois man has joined BBC coverage of Gaelic Games over the past 15 months and the feedback has been awesome.This is really, really good. The GAA Social with referee Maurice Deegan, a man Oisin has never really liked. Enjoy

Louth smack a performance, nobody out side their camp predicted- but ultimately Dublin still win. An 18th title for Stephen Cluxton. We reflect on the most dramatic of days at Clones as Donegal come back, to win the Ulster championship. A truly remarkable occasion. What next for Armagh? Well, it's Tyrone!

Steven McDonnell is one of the greatest Gaelic footballers of his generation. A former player-of-the year, three-time All-star, All-Ireland winner and seven-time Ulster champion. Success was a familiar path, and it’s perhaps no surprise that he made David Clifford’s dream 7’s team. Some man.In this podcast, Oisin teams up with his old buddy to talk the good ole days, the constant challenge of Donegal and what we can expect in the 2024 Ulster final. The former Ireland player also calls on the GAA to reinstate the International rules series and has a plan how it can flourish. Behind the talented footballer is also a man who cared for his mum as she died from Alzheimer’s. It’s a cruel disease “We lost our mum before she died.” The illness paused his managerial ambitions but not his love of the sport and why he thinks most forwards are failing. Steven tries a Kieran Donaghy accent, reveals his ‘extensive’ weights programme and provides a brilliant insight on the famous Conor Gormley block in the 2003 All-Ireland final against Tyrone. The podcast also reflects on last week’s Colin Bell Podcast, someone McDonnell knows well and the day the Armagh legend tricked Stephen Cluxton into a red card. Stevie from Killeavy- the footballing icon, the finest of men. Our guest this week, on the GAA Social Podcast.

It's a provincial title for Kerry and Galway on two very different occasions. Clare can take great encouragement from their final defeat in Munster- but the same can't be said about Mayo. Oisin believes they might not even make it out of their group. Galway found something from within and the scenes at the final whistle suggest this was something big for the Tribesmen.

Colin Bell is one of those truly remarkable people you come across in life. Authentic, beautiful. Colin played with the great Sean & Kevin O'Neill for Newry Mitchel's. He also played for Down minors and U21's- he even played soccer for Newry Town. A teacher, married to the wonderful Eithne & a busy life with seven children under six years old. But life was good.Then his son Kevin was killed in a hit & run incident in New York. Life would never be the same again. From that devastation, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust was born. The charity has brought home more than 1800 people, who've died abroad. In the ten years of the charity, that's one every two days- and becoming busier. During the recording of this Podcast, it became apparent just how critical the charity is. The recording was interrupted on three occasions with emergency phone calls. Life has changed, but the impact of KBRT is immense. How Colin reflects on his son, what he was like and the legacy he's left behind is beautiful.There's never been an arrest for Kevin's death. What would Colin say if those responsible reached out?Despite the sensitive nature of this podcast, it's an hour of fun, laughs and the reveal that Colin "Has a left foot that could cut cake"There's a remarkable revelation at the end, but the shining light is Colin, his son Kevin and the stunning impact they have on so many lives.This is the remarkable GAA Social with former Down footballer, Colin Bell.If you've a story on Colin, please reach out and let us know

Ryan McHugh joins Thomas & Oisin on the GAA Social after Donegal qualify for the 2024 Ulster final. An insight into the Jim McGuinness world and a look ahead to the Ulster final against Armagh. But first, there's two very different semi-finals to reflect in Ulster and Leinster. Clare & Cork serve up a cracker and Antrim show they can do it- and do it well.Lee Chin is an unbelievable hurler. One last thing, and we know it's unlikely, but is it conceivable that Donegal could win an All-Ireland? The GAA Social on a Monday

This podcast is among the most powerful the GAA Social has ever recorded. We accept that's a big statement. you can judge for yourself. Liam Hinphey played for Ulster and Derry in Hurling. He played football for his county and was the key player when Derry beat All-Ireland champions Tyrone in Omagh in 2006. He marked Sean Cavanagh that day, got the better of him too. So the focus of this podcast, was supposed to be the upcoming Ulster semi-final between Derry and Tyrone. Jim McGuinness had other ideas.We ploughed on regardless and what a story. Liam has a young son, also called Liam. He has Dravet Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy. It can be fatal. It's a constant challenge for Liam and his wife Clare. Liam also lost his father this year- an icon of Derry, Dungiven and Kilkenny hurling. He's also called Liam, apparently William III. A fine man. We explore grief, being better and challenging yourself. Don't be fooled, there are outrageous moments of laughter in this podcast, smiles, digs with nothing off limits.It's an inspiring story of life, survival and being the best version of yourself. Being better. This is Liam Hinphey, approaching 40 and one of the best people you could meet. A great daddy

Kerry and Galway win, Derry don't, Donegal do. Drama, epic entertainment and 17,000 talking points. Then, there's the clinker between Tyrone and Cavan. Cathal McShane joins Thomas & Oisin to reflect on the weekend, the GAA championship bursts into life

Seamus Kennedy was captain of Tipperary hurlers, 6 days later he was taking on the All-Ireland champions Limerick when disaster struck. Cruciate gone, season over. In his first interview since injury last month, the talented dual player brings us into the devastation of injury. There is perspective. Dillon Quirke died less than two yeas ago, Tipperary are still recovering, knowing they'll never truly get there.There is hunger within Tipperary to win Liam MacCarthy. To be better. 2023 was disappointing, failing to reach the All-Ireland semi-finals. Is there more in Tipp? This podcast dives into the Munster hurling championship. It's cut-throat, but it's beautiful.Seamus comes from success. It's in the blood. One of the really interesting takes on this podcast is the discussion around life balance. The demands are almost impossible, but players want to drive standards. Are we asking too much? Injuries are certainly on the increase. Despite playing football for Clonmel Commericals, who are seeking three football championships in a row, Seamus can obtain a balanced life. He's still, the model pro.Life, Arsenal, winning All-Irelands, dual-players and being in love with Tipperary.One last thing, Why does everyone hate Tipp? Is it actually a thing? We ask Seamus

Paddy Burns was brilliant against Fermanagh, in the running for man-of-the-match. He speaks brilliantly on this Podcast- it's utterly refreshing! Michael Murphy develops the players relationships with media and how that's changed. We reflect on the weekend action and start looking ahead to next weekend. So many big games, but there is one that stands out a little. Derry V Donegal. Mickey V Jim. Michael Murphy has his say and the podcast also reflects on an incredible run for Wicklow. Lost by one point to Kildare but will go into the Tailteann cup with confidence.It's the GAA Social on a Monday, Murph replaces McConville.

He’s the footballer everyone is talking about. It feels like Charlie Smyth has been everywhere over the past few weeks, but we haven’t heard a lot from him? In his first long form interview since signing for the New Orleans Saints, the former Down and Mayobridge GAA player, brings the GAA Social into his new world.An avid listener to the GAA Social podcast, Charlie explores his new world with Thomas and Oisin. A new sport, new life and a drive that’s within to make in in the NFL. It’s a remarkable journey, so far.A 3 year contract with one of the biggest clubs in American sport, Charlie moves to New Orleans this weekend. We discuss money, how much he will and can make, goals, challenging for the number one kicking position (currently held by Blake Grupe) and meeting some of the biggest names in American Sport ‘Bout ye Cam Jordan’ “Money doesn’t drive me”We discuss the pressure of the NFL combine, delivering and signing a contract- all after imaging himself as Kerry footballer Bryan Sheehan. Charlies story is unconventional. Struggling to make a school team, regrouping to star for Down in U20 Ulster championship glory. Then, the devastation. No more Down, and he wasn’t playing with his club Mayobridge. It was a real low, but that disappointment was harnessed in a positive way. Focus, drive and total commitment. Courage was clear and Charlie burst into life.We mentioned it's Charlie's first long form interview- but not his first interview. The Late Late show on RTE was the destination on Friday, what was that like?Some people laughed when a young recently qualified teacher wanted to make a career in the NFL. They’re not laughing now It’s Charlie Smyth on the GAA Social, with Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville

We look ahead to this weekend, the games and review all the matches. Michael Murphy explains where the Provincial championships should sit- and what their prize should be.

When we stopped recording, videographer Tristan turned to Thomas and said 'I don't think there's many we've done as powerful as that?" We think he’s right.We've been trying to record this podcast for two years, today we finally can bring it to our listeners. It’s different and challenges a few boundaries. For a son to ask questions to his mother, on a podcast, around sensitive areas, is strange, but it’s powerful. We hope you can appreciate and enjoy one of the kindest, most generous and authentic people anyone could meet. Margaret McConville is one of those unique, remarkable people you rarely come across in life. Raring a family in what felt like a war zone- but losing a young son in the tranquillity of Donegal. It's taken a toll, but the attitude of Margaret is inspiring. Football and family is key. There's grand-children and great grand-children now. All of them adore Margaret.Oisin had a well-publicised gambling problem, but there was another side Margaret had to face. At one stage in this podcast, we almost feel like we're eve-dropping on an intimate private conversation between mother and son. They’ve allowed us in.Oisin also explores his different childhood and why he’s so passionate in helping others. It would be easier to walk away.It's Oisin's mummy- on the GAA Social. The beautiful Margaret McConville, 88 years young!

Laois win division four, Westmeath win perhaps, the most important game of all, Donegal continue to blossom at Armagh expense and Derry v Dublin is setup for a rivalry that could define the next 24 months. We'll see. It's the GAA Social with Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville

Garvan Jones scored 1-8 (1-7 from play) against Cavan over the weekend. It was a magnificent win for Fermanagh, but it couldn’t keep them in division two. The Allianz leagues can be cruel, but with Championship just over two weeks away, Garvan brings the podcast into the mind of a current inter-county footballer. With two older brothers playing Fermanagh, who’ve this year decided to step back- the time is right for Garvan to help lead. He’s had a brilliant 2024 personally, leading the attack, scoring heavily and delivering on the promise he’s shown throughout his club career with Derrygonnelly and with Fermanagh. What’s made him better now? Why now? Hopes and desires for 2024 and playing Armagh in the opening round of the Ulster championship. Are Fermanagh good enough?We also talk broadcasting, coverage of games, what do players want to see? University football pints to the serious business of senior inter-county football. Being in the mindset.It’s Garvan Jones on the GAA Social with Thomas & Oisin