The GAA Social

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

The podcast looks at all the big winners and losers from the Allianz Leagues 2024. What does it say for championship? Our Podcast winner of the week and there's a lot of love for Johnny McGrath of Galway.It's the GAA Social on a Monday

In one of the most enjoyable podcasts since the GAA Social started it's meandering journey- Diarmuid O'Sullivan stands out. Nothing is off limits. Passed over as Cork manager- why? Rows with Kilkenny and Limerick and embracing his iconic status.Then, there's the strikes. In the noughties Cork called a strike three times. It was hugely controversial and still causes debate. The fall-outs continue and there's a feeling more than 20 years on, Cork were not supported as they should. Diarmuid’s father Jerry was on the Cork County Board at the time, a former Chairman- but his son was on the opposing side. Diarmuid was still living at home at the time. Conversation over the dinner table. Tricky!Diarmuid explains his first time crossing the border, the experience remains vivid in his mind. Should Casement stadium be built? Cork have their own issues around 'Oisin McConville Supervalue Park' as it's now known. O'Sullivan is helping Ronan Sheehan as part of the Down hurling management. It's a role he enjoys. Could he manage one of the top Munster teams? Could he manage Cork some day?It's the life and times of one of Hurling’s greatest icons- Diarmuid O'Sullivan on the GAA Social Podcast

Thomas & Oisin reflect on a bumper weekend of Gaelic Games. Wicklow earn their first win, and now play Antrim in a massive game for survival for both counties. Because of the Down/ Westmeath draw- how big is the Down Clare game this weekend? A promotion play-off for a place in division two. Laois still look good for promotion from Division four- despite defeat from Leitrim. Tommy Conroy catches the eye- despite losing to Derry. A Monaghan -Tyrone classic, Galway still in trouble with Roscommon and David Clifford misses a penalty. We kid you not!The GAA Social on a Monday - and we have a new winner of Player of the week!!!! (He throughly deserved it)

Aimee is perhaps the greatest Gaelic footballer of her generation. There are a couple in that top bracket, but the Armagh forward has already picked up Player of the year and despite her young age, has represented the Armagh senior team for nine years. Her debut came in 2015In this wide ranging podcast, we examine the amalgamation piece around the GAA/ LGFA and Camogie Association, her one piece of advice to those decision makers and her hopes that the hierarchy of all three organisations can follow the example of our clubs.Aimee comes from arguably the most talented Gaelic football family in Ireland at present. Her sister Blaithin plays for Armagh and her brothers Ciaran and Connaire line-out for the Armagh mens team. Aimee and Balithin also play Australian Rules with Melbourne Fooball Club, representing the Demons in the AFLW. Aimee has also played international soccer at all levels.Despite the obvious talents, Aimee struggled to acknowledge her greatness. Humble. The Camlough athlete examines the notion of placing a life on hold for sport, winning an All-Ireland with Armagh, media awareness and caution. Mackin also remembers the days when Armagh didn’t have a pitch to train on. It’s not like that now.Cruciate recovery into one of the greatest Gaelic footballers of her generation. It’s the brilliant Aimee Mackin on the GAA Social Podcast

Is County Mayo’s Gaelic football team cursed? You might have heard of the “Curse of Bambino” for the Boston Red Sox in US baseball. This is the story of Ireland’s equivalent. Irish-American sports reporter Dave McKenna investigates this curious case to find out if a decades old hex is behind their recent failures. Did the team really disrespect a funeral in 1951? And did that cause the mysterious bad luck that’s plagued the team ever since? Episode 1 of 3.Let us know what you think of #AmazingSportStories

This Podcast isn’t quite what you’d expect? Jackie Tyrell has won nine All-Ireland titles with Kilkenny & everything with his club. He’s one of Gaelic Games highest rated and respected TV analysts. He’s a model, assured and confident- it appears. Behind it all, was a hurler crippled with doubt.This Podcast explores the journey Jackie Tyrell has travelled. A bumpy one. The James Stephen’s club man also lifts the lid on Brian Cody, what he was like, what made him different. Jackie also explains his thoughts around Henry Shefflin, his decision to take Galway and the famous handshake/ non-handshake between the star manager and perhaps his greatest player? No regrets.Jackie also explains his obsessive nature. Press-ups/ sit-ups before bed, every single night, is just one tiny piece. There’s a brilliant insight into Tommy Walsh, the All-stars dinner when Tipperary cleaned up, Vodka & Redbull and the four digits that followed in a text message. There’s punditry, Donal Og "Going off one"- what was that like? And, there’s Cork. Ben O’Connor too.There’s also Lar Corbett. Fabulous stuff.

It's the Monday morning review of all the games and talking points as the Allianz Leagues burst into life

An extra-length Podcast, for a very good reason.It's 20 years since Cormac McAnallen died. At 24, the Tyrone captain already won a senior All-Ireland in 2003 and was next in line to life Sam Maguire as leader. It didn't happen. In the early hours of March 2nd, Donal McAnallen heard a noise in Cormac's room and found his brother. Donal explains what unfolded, Cormac's death and the trauma that seemed to hit everyone in a Gaelic Football nation.The Cormac Trust was setup in Cormac’s memory and it saved countless lives. It's a beautiful legacy and joining Donal, Thomas & Oisin is former Derry captain Kevin McCloy. In August 2014, Kevin collapsed in a club championship match. His life has never been the same, but it's a life "Owed" to Cormac. In a remarkable podcast, Kevin explains his own journey through cardiac arrest. It's an extraordinarily personal account of life, death and survival beyond the brink.Perhaps surprising, or maybe not, there are so many brilliant, funny moments in a special extra-length podcast, that turns several corners- some unexpected.The GAA Social are indebted to Donal and Kevin for their honesty. This was a difficult podcast to take part in, but both men were simply incredible. Genuine, humble, authentic and brilliant ambassadors for the short, but beautiful life of Cormac McAnallen.

All the talking points, games and the great forwards of our times.

Shauna Ennis is a double All-Ireland winning captain. The Meath defender is also a camog, playing for the successful Na Fianna club in Meath. in 2023, the club reached All-Ireland semi-finals in Camogie and football. Despite several efforts, nine dual players had to play both games within 21 hours. One game in Louth, another 300km away. Then there's the boys, treated better than the girls.Mary McAleese has set the target for 2027, listening to this podcast it can't come soon enough. But, it's a bumpy road ahead.

It's the Monday review podcast, uploaded for your commute. Start your week with your GAA wrap and a look ahead to what's next

Frank McGuigan was one of Gaelic Games greatest footballers. An All-star award in 1984 after his historic 11-points from play during the Ulster final of the same year. An icon to this day. Football is great and life is good.However a car accident ended his playing career and could have cost him his life. Frank was drunk behind the wheel and the accident sparked a period of depression and excessive drinking.In this extraordinary podcast, McGuigan explains the toll alcohol took on his marriage, his family and his football. It’s brutally honest. It engages Thomas and Oisin into a conversation around alcohol that’s eyebrow raising.Is Frank an alcoholic? He’s not sure. Fake stories around his drinking causes hurt, even today it annoys him. There's learnings in this podcast.This all comes after a 15 minutes McGuigan syle analysis of new rules and the modern game. Frank doesn’t miss.Tears in 2003 watching his son win Sam Maguire, annoyance over All-stars won and missed (Frank sold his All-star on e-bay)Then there’s that famous last photograph with former Tyrone manager Art McCrory, days before he died. A simple snap that’s now pricelessReferees, Peter Canavan and the distress over the thought of Mickey Harte leading Derry to an All-Ireland.Frank and his son Tommy have confirmed they’re moving to the States of Conor Glass walks up the Hogan steps.There are loads of laughs, fun and stomach creasing moments-especially when a dodgy message was forwarded instead of deleted. Big mistake.Frank McGuigan, one of the amazing people of our time.The GAA Social. Powerful listening

We hear from three MacRory Cup winning players, immediately after Omagh CBS defeat St Patrick's Academy Dungannon on the occasion of the 100th MacRory Cup final. It's immediate reaction. Manager Diarmuid McNulty joins Oisin & Thomas too. Then there's Oisin and the refeere mistake that's cost him four weeks on the sidelines. His response isn't what Thomas was expecting.It's the GAA Social on a Monday

An Ulster GAA Icon, who shaped the lives and football careers of thousands of young men. Adrian McGuckin helped St Patrick’s Maghera win 12 MacRory Cup titles and four All-Ireland championships. This weekend it’s the 100th MacRory Cup final. He managed Derry, but regrets it now. He explains why? This all comes after a playing career where the Ballinderry man won Ulster championships, played at Wembley and was the catalyst for success at both county and club level- with a humble heart.In his mid-seventies, McGuckin reflects on life growing up on a farm, a less traditional choice of school and coaching at Jordanstown, now Ulster University. McGuckin also reflects on loss after his wife Vera died approaching 20 years ago now. It’s a familiar story for so many people in society, but explained perhaps by so few.When Thomas and Oisin started their media journey- it was Adrian McGuckin who was at the centre of those days as a co-commentator and analyst for the BBC. Reminiscing, laughter and a former Derry manager who just “can’t get his head around” the new man in charge.It’s wonderful stuff as the band comes back together, from one of the best people you could meet.It’s Adrian McGuckin on the GAA Social. The voice is epic!

It's the Monday GAA Social review of a busy weekend in the Allianz league. Oisin picks the 2024 All-Ireland winner

This is an absorbing listen.Conor Glass is the most talked about GAA player of 2024. After winning an All-Ireland club title with Glen, beating Kerry with Derry six days after, and 24-hours-later, engaged into Tyrone royalty (She obviously said yes)In a revealing GAA Social, Glass brings us into the heart of Mickey Harte taking the Derry job and exclusively reveals he asked Malachy O’Rourke to consider the vacant managers position. It’s a big moment for club and county. There are other revelations including the meaning behind the Tour de France shirt worn on Monday club (more meaningful than you’d suspect) how he, Ciaran McFaul and Ethan Doherty played for Derry just six days after winning an All-Ireland club and the fear of “The wheels coming off” after Rory Gallagher stepped back as Derry manager. Glass provides an insight into the Harte/Devlin regime and the drive to win Sam Maguire. There’s a poignant discussion on Claire Glass (Conor’s mum) who was diagnosed with cancer. Claire decided to hide the illness from Conor, because of football.There’s also the insight into winning the All-Ireland club. The TV cameras picked him up at the final whistle, the tears flowed (the first of many that day)The future, the drive, the busiest man in Ireland and the Derry captain with Thomas and Oisin on the GAA Social.

It's the opening weekend of the Allianz leagues and Oisin McConville casts his eye over the major talking points with Thomas Niblock- and there's plenty!Monaghan stun Croke Park, Tyrone pick-up a win and Derry win in Tralee (With the Watty 3) Jim McGuinness is up and running- but there's cause for concern in Cork. Armagh, just OK. Thomas & Oisin go through division three and four and all the talking points on the Monday GAA Social. Available from 5am for your commute (Or just working from home)

Is it the last dance? Conor McManus explains his vision for 2024 and his future in Monaghan colours. Management is a discussion point, but this podcast brings listeners into the reality of playing top level Gaelic Games when the body is screaming stop. Operations await Conor in the very near future as a life beyond Blue and white is soon near. But not yet. After narrowly losing to Dublin in the 2023 All-Ireland semi-final, Monaghan were close. McManus explains his belief Monaghan can improve and the Sam Maguire is possible. It's a big ask. Conor explains the ruthless competition in challenging for an All-Ireland, winning championship games on penalties and commitment to the cause. Recorded in front of a 400 person studio audience, there’s plenty of laughs and craic in a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the greatest Gaelic footballers of our time. Is he the greatest Gaelic footballer, without an All-Ireland medal? It's the GAA Social Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville, with special guest Conor McManus

This is the remarkable life and story of Neil Lennon, wrapped in the hands of Gaelic Games. Born in Lurgan in County Armagh, Lennon rose to prominence in Gaelic games. Captaining his school and club in Lurgan, winning an All-Ireland with St Michael's before playing alongside Kieran McGeeney for Armagh, losing the Ulster final to Derry.That Ulster final ignited a relationship with former Derry player Anthony Tohill, who ended up at Celtic Park on Old Firm day. Chris Sutton taking bets on who could "Slap" David Beckham and the remarkable chilling management call made by Martin O'Neill on Cup final day. It's a fascinating insight into the ruthless nature of management.The podcast takes a look at a changing Irish society and for the first time Neil Lennon explains the details of how his International career ended, with the visit of two police officers. That low point fired a drive in Lennon, delivering managerial success and becoming Celtic manager at just 38.Neil Lennon also answers questions on the vacant Republic of Ireland managers job. Is he the man for the job?Scott Brown & Georgios Samaras watching Gaelic football, Martin O'Neill in awe of a GAA master and a brilliant insight into management. It’s the GAA Social with Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville- back for a new series. Let 2024 begin

It's been a long (short) season, with some brilliant (awful) games- but in the end, we have the best teams with the biggest prizes-a fine season. Limerick have Liam & Dublin won Sam. The Podcast will be taking an emotional break for a bit- Oisin & Thomas seem happy enough with this. Will we ever see them again? Would anyone actually be bothered? Before the break- The GAA Social 'Team of the Year' is picked. Actually, it's been more crafted. We also have our end of season review for the Podcast series. Brian Canavan, Seanie Johnston, Paddy McBride, Dion Dublin, Shane Walsh, Rory O'Carroll, our Live studio audience programme, Barry O'Hagan, Chrissy McKaigue, Big Conn, Niamh McLaughlin, Michael Murphy, Rian O'Neill, Austin Gleeson- these were the brilliant podcasts- THAT WERN'T MENTIONED!!!! From the team- we love you all and can't thank you enough. Oisin is away to France, Thomas is back to work, presenting BBC Newsline on Friday. No rest for the wicked!PS- we might drop a few episodes throughout the autumn, maybe.

Dublin are back as kings of Ireland. Philly McMahon joins Oisin & Thomas to talk through the All-Ireland final, Player of the year, the 2023 season and covering the All-Ireland final for the BBC- just a little bit differently. Philly McMahon is a very, very happy man!

Seamus Moynihan is one of the Kerry all-time legends. Four All-Ireland medals, three All-stars, Nine Munster championships and a lifetime in a Kerry defence. Championship arrived as a 19-year-old in midfield and finished 14 years later. Oisin always said Moynihan was his toughest opponent.In this episode we hear from the Glenflesk man about life, football, taking the U20's this year and his expectations ahead of the All-Ireland final.A fascinating insight into one of the all-time greats.Seamus Moynihan on the GAA Social