
The GAA Social
247 episodes — Page 5 of 5
Goalkeepers, Donegal delight, Jack isn't happy, 14-point superstar & Tyrone ship 6 goals in two games- but no need to panic!
Emotional day in Ballybofey as the All-Ireland champions start 2023 with a defeat. There’s also no need for Tyrone to panic. When one Shane Walsh isn’t enough and the madness of modern day goalkeeping- it’s here to stay.We have all the analysis from the opening league games in the new GAA season.Also, In his first Allianz league game as manager Oisin McConville talks through his first game in charge- a draw with Carlow and looks forward (well, sort of) to meeting his old friend and teammateTony McEntee who brings Sligo to Aughrim. Tweet Jibes, mind your own business and lots of love to Joe. It's the Monday GAA Social
Michael Murphy uncut. Donegal, why he retired & what's next
Late last year Michael Murphy shocked the GAA world by announcing his retirement. Rumours circulated. In this episode of the GAA Social, the former Donegal captain sets the record straight. He's one of the most well-known, gifted footballers of a generation- but someone we know very little about. Michael joins Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville to talk about drive, joining the BBC team as an analyst, Donegal underachievement and becoming Donegal manager some day? We're not so sure. Benny Coulter, Tyrone, that game against Dublin that shocked the sport, wedding days and remarkably Oisin is more tight lipped when it comes to talking about Wicklow. Entertaining and insightful- a unique insight into one of the sports greats. The GAA social is back!Oh, and both men pick their winners for the provincial and All-Ireland championships! Blood is thicker than water!!
Michael Murphy, The All-Ireland club final, Who's in the right- what happens next? Award winning GAA Social is back!!
The GAA Social is back! Not one, but two episodes per week in 2023! The award winning podcast series, voted Irish Sports podcast of the year in 2022, will have Oisin McConville joining Thomas Niblock every week. The biggest names connected to Gaelic Games will be interviewed in an exciting 2023 schedule.First- it’s Michael Murphy. The former Donegal captain shocked just about everyone in announcing his retirement. In his first in-depth broadcast interview, to be published later this week he explains all. This podcast however is talking about the biggest story in gaelic games- The All-Ireland club final.Objection in- Kilmacud & Glen- will we see a replay? The boys have their say, and don’t hold back.It is great to be back!!
Austin Gleeson, temper, different breed, Waterford for All-Ireland in 2023, mental frailties, Belfast beers
EFrom child prodigy to 'Hurling player of the year' Austin Gleeson is one of the sports biggest names and he’s on the GAA Social. In an open and frank podcast, the 2016 Player-of-the-year talks openly about mental frailties in Waterford, his doubts, what went wrong in 2022, Davy Fitzgerald as the new boss and his firm belief that he will win the All-Ireland- and it could happen in 2023.He speaks openly about losing Liam Cahill to Tipperary and his relationship with the former Waterford manager (Not brilliant on the Tuesday after going on the beer in Belfast)Oisin talks Wicklow and his role as their new manager (Starting on November 24th, and not a day before apparently) the training ban is firmly in placeGleeson also confronts (Actually, in the very first question) the reputation of his ‘Nasty streak’ He was sent off this year against Wexford and Cork.It’s a rare insight into one of the games greats. The moment when Austin fought back against claims he wasn’t fit enough, his before & after pictures are incredible. The kid who made his Mount Sion debut after eating a Snackbox- to the man who was the best hurler in Ireland- with more to come. An insightful podcast and a beautiful final compliment from the Tipperary manager on the brilliance of Austin Gleeson
Rian O'Neill. That Free, Armagh for Sam- Oisin for Wicklow (Not Mayo) What is 'The main man' Not feeling pressure. Breakthrough
Allstar nominee Rian O'Neill joins Thomas Niblock and Oisin Mcconville. Rian talks winning an All-Ireland, reputation for being bad, what is a main man and delaing with pressure. Rian brings us into the moment for the summer defining free-kick against Galway- was it better that Sean O'Shea's?Rian also brings us into the mind of a modern day top level gaelic footballer- the aspiration and winning with Crossmaglen.It's been a busy few weeks for Oisin who is now the Wicklow manager- but didn't get the May job along with Ray Dempsey. Did Mayo get it right? Oisin is very clear.It's also the first GAA social since the podcast won sports podcast of the year at the Irish Podcast awards. Thank you, our listeners on BBC Sounds for your support. Words couldn't reflect how grateful the team is for all your support.We're back!!
Rory beggan V Niall Morgan- Rivals, goalkeepers- future for the position. Insight on a different scale- will win Sam Maguire
Niall Morgan & Rory Beggan are two of the best goalkeepers in Gaelic football. Rivals, fiercely competitive and for the first time the GAA Social brings them both on a podcast to talk goalkeeping. Whats changed- where it’s going and why Niall Morgan believes teams will soon start playing without a goalkeeper.It’s a fascinating listen about the most talked about position in Gaelic football- and a must listen to coaches and aspiring number 1’s! Both men also chat through the season, where it went wrong and both believe they can still win Sam Maguire.The video session where Niall Morgan was told by management “That’s why you’ll never be as good as Rory Beggan” is quite the story. Brilliantly honest and an insight into making it at the top- and staying there.Refereeing comes under the spotlight, what’s actually said to match officials and those ongoing conversations with umpires.There’s also a look ahead to this weekends All-Ireland semi-finals. Kerry against Dublin and Derry’s battle with Galway. Both Rory & Niall agree on who will make this years All-Ireland finalJim Gavin the next Monaghan manager? Why not
Michael Duignan, living with cancer, Tomas O'Se as manager, Shane Lowry's role with Offaly- not sleeping for 3 years.
EIn a deeply personal and revelaing podcast, former Offaly All-Ireland winner Michael Duignan explains the loss of his wife Edel to cancer. The decade that preceeded it and letters written by Edel, to be read after her death. The "guilt" of moving on and faith of Edel, in Michael, and his ability to raise their two sons alone. It's moving, powerful and brutually honest. The podcast also examines the challenges when a high profile former player moves into administration, Tomas O'Se has potentially the next Offaly manager and a brilliant story on Derry captain Chrissy McKaigue. Duignan confirms a six-figure sum donated by Shane Lowry and the role of the former Open champion with his native county. There's also a look ahead to this weekends All-Ireland hurling semi-finals, that hand-shake between Henry Shefflin and Brian Cody, and Duignan backs Galway for Sam Maguire. Oisin reflects on a frantic weekend for Armagh, that row and the Tiernan Kelly incident. It's funny, it's moving, it's packed- another brilliant episode of the GAA Social
BONUS EPISODE:Benny Tierney- uncensored! Armagh days, 2002 hilarious from the start & a focus on this weekends quarter-finals
It's non-stop laughter!! When Oisin McConville is questioned is he the father of his daughter? (Yes you read that correctly) you know this podcast is going to be a bit different. Benny Tierney, a unique man with a brilliant football story. Is there room in the game for craic and fun? As we approach the 20th anniversary of the only time Armagh won Sam Maguire- we bring the band back together for the lagacy of that win and look ahead to a landmark day for Armagh against Galway. Oisin has his doubts over Kerry (and Dublin) and there's hope for Mayo. The call has been made though- Armagh will play Derry for a place in the years All-Ireland final! PS Oisin can confirm he is the happy father to three amazing children. Benny however is Ronaldo?
Andy McEntee- night of long knives, surviving, managing Meath, online abuse, Shane's death, provincial system is broken
In one of the most powerful, honest and explosive episodes of the GAA Social yet- Former Meath manager Andy McEntee explains what it’s really like being an inter-county manager. There was an attempt to oust he former All-Ireland winning club coach in October 2021- but Andy survived and was backed ferociously by the clubs in Meath. This is his account of what happened, the trust that was lost, the abusive messages and letters received by him and his family and the hurt inflicted. It’s not all bad- in the words of McEntee there were more good days and that’s reflected in the letters that dropped through his front door, the relationships with the players and a gradual improvement of the team against a backdrop of the greatest team of all-time, Dublin.For the first time in an interview, Andy explains the impact of loss following the death of his brother Shane, Minister for Agriculture, who died by suicide in 2012. It’s an emotional powerful story and shines a light on online abuse and the pressures of inter-county management.There are some brilliant moments of laughter and the positivity of Andy McEntee shines through. Brutally honest, funny and emotional and a focus on the All-Ireland football quarter-finals this weekend. Bad news for Armagh supporters, Oisin McConville believes they're going to win (so they'll lose) or will they? A brilliant podcast & massive respect to Andy McEntee for being so honest, especially talking about his brother Shane. A gent
Daniel Flynn, Life in Oz, the real Jack O'Connor- Hession block, beating Dublin, Mayo, Kerry for Sam- Who is Kieran McGeeney
One of the most talented gaelic footballers currently playing the sport- Daniel Flynn of Kildare reveals all to Thomas Niblock & Oisin McConville on the GAA Social. Reflections on losing to Mayo, what it's really like facing Dublin and does he really think Kildare can beat them? Why a career in AFL didn't work out and having to pick between seeing his grandfather before he died or go back for the funeral- but not both! It's a honest reflection on football, life and the future for him and Kildare. Kieran McGeeney was maager of Kildare when Daniel was first on the squad and he explains the impact the Armagh man had on the county and why the players almost decided to down tools when he was removed from post. He also reflects on Jack O'Connor, who left Kildare to take Kerry 'Who would turn down the chance to manage Manchester United? Facinating insight
Beating Tyrone, preparing to right the wrong of Donegal, Maghery, Love Island, Sean Cavanagh's book. Armagh future & Geezer
Aidan Forker has made the successful transition from an inter-county into one of the star defenders in the game. Reguraly asked to mark opponents most dangeous forwards, Forker explains what Darren McCurry said to him on Sunday, marking David Clifford at Croke Park and the hurt of their "flat" performance against Donegal in the opening round of the Ulster championship. with just days to go ahead of Armaghs crucial championship qualifier against Donegal (again) Aidan sits down with Thomas & Oisin in the Armagh Athletic grounds changing rooms (where the whiteboard still has the messages from Sundays win over Tyrone. It's a facinating insight into the drive of a modern day gaelic footballer and the challenges having a young family can provide is the selfish worls of sport. Love Island begins, Oisins predictions are beyond woeful (but he's happy enough) and Aidan lifts the lid on what its like gaving Kieran Donaghy and Kieran McGeeney in charge. A brilliant insight.
Mugsy, The session, Hating Armagh, All-Ireland winning coach, chopped by Mickey- by the newspaper! All things Armagh V Tyrone
EWhat a podcast. From Gingers (African sunset) to going on the session before the 2008 All-Ireland final- and lying to Mickey Harte. Owen Mulligan is brutually honest but after coaching Tyrone to the All-Ireland U20 title- there's a bit more to 'Mugsy' than many perhaps know. A facinating insight into on of sports greatest rivalries & what he really thought of Oisin McConville. The story of how his Tyrone days came to an end is incredible and how his stubborness prevented a return to red and white. With laughter throughout- this podcast is a colourful hilarious journey into the life of Mugsy and more importantly a new direction on the sidelines- and one he's pretty good at. Oisin believes he won the good looking competition.
Mark McHugh on Gallagher- Tony Scullion (Allstar x 4) on life- an Ulster final that defies belief. Oisin is moving to Derry
Recorded in front of a live studio audience in Slaughtneil's wonderful An Carn theatre- this podcast is different. Mark McHugh was coached by rory Gallagher at donegal, in Kilcar and speak weekly (Mark called Rory for directions to Slaughtneil) it's an utterly facinating insight into a coach- that's mellowed? Tony Scullion believes people should support Tyrone- but gets caught about 1995 and Oisin has backed Logan & Dooher to win Sam Maguire (Yes that's the team who Armagh play next) The podcast focuses on the Ulster final, how it will be won and lost- and who will lift Sam Maguire in July (That's right, it's July) Tony & Mark provide a brilliant insight into Michael Murphy. Plenty of craic & laughs- it's your one-stop podcast ahead of Sunday's Ulster final. This episode will also be available on BBC iplayer, with questions from the audience on Tuesday 24th May 2022PS- Tony Scullion has the best voice of any individual on earth, apart from the great American singer Barry White
Ladies football, where we've come and where we need to go. Armagh leading the way & Derry to lose mens final
Armagh captain Kelly Mallon has spent 14 years playing for Armagh. The greatest moment for her, is having a pitch to train on. Would a male senior Armagh player say that? It's a little uncomfortable but this podcast with Thomas & Oisin shines a light on the journey travelled within the sport- still not officially recognised- and most importantly what needs to happen next. Armagh Chairperson Sinead Reel is also on the podcast and explains how Armagh became the first and only inter-county ladies team to have their own bespoke facilities. No travel expenses- the boys get their food for the week- the girls don't. It's one of a number of points to come up in a brilliant podcast listen. Oisin McConville picks who will win the Ulster mens final and picks the bones of famous Derry win over Monaghan. Tailteann Cup draw also features- will it work out?
Making it. What it takes, MacRory winning manager Kevin Brady talks coaching youth & 16-year-old Derry player Ruairi Forbes
This one is different. Ruairi Forbes is an inter-county minor player, from the Ballinderry club and has won a MacRory. He's still in School at St Mary's Magherafelt and will still be there next year. He explains what it takes for a youngster to make it in Gaelic games. His journey continues to evolve, but he talks social media controls, quitting rugby, dedication, snowflake generation and why sport is so important. It's a rare, frank and honest insight into a 16-year-old aiming to play at the very top. Kevin Brady played for Antrim for 15 years and manages St Mary's MacRory cup winning team. He explains how to get the best out of young people- why they're different and lessons to be learned. Kevin also explains the Tailteann Cup from the eyes of a former captain who won the Tommy Murphy cup - he still has the framed photo! Oisin manages the Armagh U20's in an episode of the GAA Social that devotes the entire pod to coaching young people. It's a remarkable listen.PS- there's more. Womens knickers, San Francisco, formals, abuse, Donegal needing to change and Adrian McGuckin. Oh yes, Oisin wants the provincial championships scrapped. Another week of the GAA Social
Mark Lynch on recovery from cancer, Tyrone, chemo and losing his hair to an All-Ireland semi-final. Tony Scullion in jail.
EIt's a strange one. The most laughs in a single podcast- yet cancer is the topic! Former Derry gaelic footballer Mark Lynch charts his recovery from testicular cancer, the day he was told and going under the knife. Keeping positive helps and is his own unique way, Mark explains every step from diagnosis to 'the great day' Del boy & Rodney make an apperance via Oisin McConville, who remains confused about where Armagh actually are at? He does know where Banagher is- eventually! Recording was in Dungiven where stories of pints are told. This podcast smashes the shackles of cancer conservatism- and it's ok to use words like testicles and scrotum. It's educational and something every young man (and old) should listen to. Mark, Oisin & Thomas at their very best. We hope you enjoy
Ryan Murray on Championship defeat, Dubai,What is it with Antrim? Tailteann Cup, shoving Sean Kelly
This week Ryan Murray- talks the Antrim problem. The greater Belfast area has almost 20 times the population of Leitrim, but it consistently fails to win. Ryan doscusses leaving his grilfriend in Dubai to play for Antrim, dealing with a crushing defeat, and talks about what a GAA player can and cannot say. Antrim will now play in the Tailteann Cup and we hear about his frank views on the competition. Oisin McConville also reflects on a crushing defeat for Armagh and look ahead to Derry V Tyrone and possible a big upset in Leinster. Mickey Harte is at the wheel.
Mickey Harte & Oisin "Tyrone will win Sam" Peter Canavan won't manage, but Kerry for Sam- BBC pundits & angry Oisin
Ahead of the new championship season, BBC analysts Mickey Harte, Peter Canavan & Oisin McConville explain their predictions for the championship, thoughtful reflections from Harte on not being given the opportunity to manage Tyrone in 2022- and watching them win Sam Maguire. Managing your children and the difficulties it presents, the CCCC and Rian O'Neill. Oisin isn't happy with Jim McGuinness and Donegal and goes full Kevin Keegan. A brilliant championship opener ahead of what promises to be an amazing Ulster and All-Ireland championship.
Losing dad, contemplating suicide, back with Antrim, two cruciates, from St Gall's to Ballymacnabb. GPA,Slurry & lost at a wake
In an astonishing interview, Antrim goalkeeper Chris Kerr reveals how he contemplated suicide after the death of his father. The lowest point arrived after the final game at Casement Park, when Antrim lost to Monaghan and Kerr found himself at his lowest point. Despite the trauma and pain- this podcast is an uplifting journey from rock bottom to a man who has found a wife, a new home and is about to become a father for the first time this summer. Life is good for Chris Kerr. Now living in Armagh, Chris explains the difference between life at a rural club and his native St Gall's, receiving the call-up back to represent Antrim and looks ahead to the Ulster championship- Corrigan or nowhere! Chris now works with the GPA and explains the mental health challenges modern day GAA players face and along with Oisin McConville & Thomas Niblock- this is a podcast that starts football and meanders into life. A fabulous listen
Darren Hughes, Tiernan McCann's hair, jealousy, calving, Liam Sheedy, doing goals in championship- what is it about Tyrone?
In his first broadcast interview discussing one of the most talked about incidents at Croke Park, Darren Hughes talks in detail about the 2015 Rufflegate incident where he ruffled Tiernan McCann's hair, the Tyrone player dived and Hughes was sent-off. In 2010, Hughes played in goals against Armagh at Casement Park- we hear the detail how that event unfolded. Hughes also talks about jealousy, not supporting Tyrone in the All-Ireland last year and what All-Ireland winning hurling manager Liam Sheedy has brought to the Monaghan setup. discussion on two managers- Banty & Malachy O'Rourke feature in this podcast and we dig into the theory that Monaghan could win the All-Ireland this year. Darren believes it's achievable. Surviving calving season, milking at the farm and growing older are all aspects as one of Monaghans greatest and longest serving players talks frank, honestly and openly about life and football.
Sam Mulroy- Top scorer in Gaelic football, winning Sam, Kildare & Armagh. Horse is THE best. Mickey Harte will take us there..
EAn incredible insight into the Allianz League top scorer. It's not Darren McCurry, David Clifford or Dean Rock- it's Sam Mulroy. In a frank and honest interview, the Louth captain brings us inside the changing room, inside Mickey Harte and the road to becoming Leinster champions. Challenged by Oisin McConville- even outside football, Sam is brutally honest and sets his sights on becoming the best Gaelic footballer in Louth- and beyond! Will Smith makes an apperance and the boys discuss the love between Donegal and Armagh- looking long term and an exciting championship just around the corner. No questions dodged- the story about how Louth picked their goalkeeper is utterly facinating
Richie Power- Kilkenny legend, a life of success, 8 All-Irelands and keeping a secret. I'm addicted to gambling
This podcast started with Richie Power & his amazing career. 12 inter-county All-Irelands, double All-star, an All-Ireland with his club & coming from a family of hurling royalty. The Podcast ends with Richie, for the first time, talking about his gambling addiction. In an emotional, frank and honest interview, Richie explains how the addiction took hold of his life, where he ended up and reaching out for help. Richie and his three-time All Ireland winning father drove the car North to meet Oisin McConville in the Carrickdale hotel- a cry for help. Oisin McConville remembers that meeting and is alongside Richie as he explains a life in turmoil. Richie also explains to Thomas Niblock how his career was cut short because of injury, the power of the club, his struggles to cope and life outside the black & amber. It's a powerful podcast with fun moments and the harsh reality faced by many in society, who suffer from addiction. Richie Power, legend, father, All-Ireland winner, Allstar, addict. This is his story.
'If Mickey was still manager- I wouldn't be there' Changing wedding date,6 boys leaving, Puma Kings, no drink & inspired by mum
Darren McCurry rarely does interviews. Allstar, All-Ireland and top-scorer for Tyrone- 2021 was a dream year- but he reveals for the first time if Mickey Harte was still manager, he would have left the squad. In an absorbing interview, McCurry talks losing his mum at 13, the decision by 6 Tyrone players to step back from the panel this year and why he really changed the date for his upcoming wedding. Oisin McConville explains how missing a free taker cost Tyrone an All-Ireland, while McCurry takes us under the skin of modern day Gaelic footballer- specifically forwards- and why they need to be treated differently. Incredible dedication, training twice a day, Adidas V Puma Kings, drink v no drink & having an 8 pack (not beer) An incredible insight into the game and the person from one of the biggest names in Gaelic games.
Neil McManus, A sign on the door 'leave your feelings here' apathy for hurling from those in charge- return Ulster championship
How Antrim hurlers & management found out the Ulster championship will be no more- will raise your brows! Neil McManus takes aim at those in charge of hurling and believes there's an apathy shown towards the sport. He believes the Ulster championship should return and outlines how that could be possible, to the benefit of everyone! "Belfast is the key & we can exploit that" He laughs at the thought of the Tailteann cup receiving the exposure promised- and shows his hurling experience to prove his point. Neil McManus is one of the sports greatest players- consistently leading Antrim & Cushendall. His passion for hurling vibrates throughout this podcast. Wim Hof & cold water therapy (or as Neil calls it CWT) We also talk the future for Antrim. High hopes. The magic of the Glens & Watching his father take a heart attack. This is a brilliant podcast, from one of the best role models in sport.
Surviving cancer, back at football & captaining your county to an All-Ireland. The remarkable story of Mags McAlinden
The world of Mags McAlinden was rocked when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. An All-Ireland winning captain in 2012, it was the darkest time of her life. With the help of her family, Clann Eireann & Armagh teammates Mags recalls in detail her remarkable fightback against the disease. Mags is now back playing football for one final year & is hopes to collect an incredible 11th county championship title. This is her storyMags and Oisin McConville also discuss how ladies football has changed, where it's come from and Mag's father Brian, who was Armagh senior mens manager when Oisin McConville broke through in the 90's. From losing her hair to catching Armagh senior players sneaking out of a Monastery to the pub- this is an episode not be be missed. This is Mags first time talking about her story.
Keith Ricken, pulling out of the Trench cup, snobs, dealing with young people, "I dread Tailteann Cup" More clubs than Connacht
ECork senior football manager Keith Ricken is this weeks guest. He talks about the future of 3rd level football and aspirations of Cork. Keith won an All-Ireland with Cork U20's and has a unique way and vision for young people. It's refreshing and makes you think how best do we manage our young people from U6's to senior. We also also plot Corks journey back to the top of the game in the near future, Keiths rebuild job ahead of him and peel beneath the skin of Third level GAA and it's future within GAA. Oisin revisits the decision to pull DKIT out of the Trench cup- a decision not made by him! Was he right?
How Kilcoo won the All-Ireland- Conor Laverty like you've never heard him before.
ELike you've never heard Conor Laverty before- nothing is off-limits. Meeting Jim McGuinness for the Down senior job, a sick child during championship, behind the scenes of Irelands best club and the drive that motivates one of the most rural places in the country. Conor also discusses why he doesn't drink alcohol, his coaching ambitions, his playing future and how 4 men convinced Mickey Moran to take the managers job- twice! It's a lens into rural Ireland and sport at it's very best. How does a team go from junior football to the premier side in Gaelic games? This weeks GAA Social peels the skin of one of Gaelic footballs most unique sportsmen.
Crying in the toilet, I want to be marked by the best "he's all left" Walking away from Slaughtneil? Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink
The Marquee forward footballer, star hurling defender, 2021 GAA Allstar nominee Shane McGuigan talks being the best, playing both hurling and football and aspirations for Derry. The podcast digs deep into the mindset of one of Irelands great Gaelic footballers- and what makes him tick! With nothing off limits, we talk hopes of winning Sam Maguire, the dilemma of walking away from the sport you love, crying in the toilets in Ballybofey and how he learned to use his right foot during lockdown "I want to be marked by the best players"
Padraig Hampsey- winner!
EPadraig Hampsey sits down with Oisin McConville and Thomas Niblock and discusses winning the Sam Maguire, crowning off the most remarkable sporting story in 2022. A camp in disarray after losing to Kerry, ravaged by covid, but somehow collected the ultimate prize in Irish sport. Hampsey discusses the captaincy, the moment he'll take to the grave, the season and challenges ahead in 2022- and the dream of winning back-to-back All-Ireland titles. Open and honest, Hampsey brings us inside the Tyrone wire, his family and what it's like to play inter-county football. Padraig also discusses the challenges of running his business through the covid-19 pandemic and explores the murky world of verbals and it's place in sport.
Congress - motion defeated
Fermanagh manager Kieran Donnelly & Oisin McConville both tell Thomas Niblock how they feel the decision at congress was “wrong.” The pair discuss what’s next and what the real problems are. Donnelly talks about Fermanagh plans and Rory Gallagher's earring!
How Sam Maguire was actually won
Conor Meyler and Niall Morgan lift the lid on Tyrones All-Ireland winning season. They both talk openly about how covid affected them personally and the team. Conor opens up about asking for professional help, “I need to speak with someone” to help his journey to the pinnacle of Gaelic football- and life! Niall Morgan reveals how he was ‘tricked’ into playing for Tyrone and how the decision was made to pull out of the All-Ireland. Both speak emotionally about moment all their dreams came true- celebrations too!
Enda McGinley & Brendan Maher
Antrim manager and three-time All-Ireland winner Enda McGinley joins Oisín McConville and Thomas Niblock to discuss his first season in inter-county management. The highs and lows, the problems in Antrim and if the Saffron’s get out of division three.Enda discusses the mentality and dedication needed to become a successful county player and how that balances with club commitments. Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also sits down with recently retired, three-time All-Ireland winning Tipperary hurling captain, Brendan Maher. Brendan talks about Liam Sheedy, his own retirement and how it is insulting to be known as just a hurler.
Conor McManus & dealing with defeat
EThree-time All-Star Conor McManus joins Thomas Niblock and former All-Ireland winner Oisín McConville to discuss how GAA players deal with the pain of defeat. McManus also pays tribute to the Monaghan Under-20 captain Brendan Og Duffy, who died in a car crash last month. They discuss their toughest losses and look ahead to the All-Ireland semi-finals.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also sits down with former Laois manager and Kilkenny hurler Eddie Brennan who looks back on the All-Ireland hurling semi-finals and gives his opinion on this year’s final.
Rory Gallagher & the art of management
EDerry manager Rory Gallagher joins Thomas Niblock and Oisín McConville to discuss the art of management.The former Donegal coach opens up about his falling out with Jim McGuiness and recalls the secret to Donegal's All-Ireland success. Gallagher talks about how his approach had to change at Fermanagh and what his plans are for Derry.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also catches up with Keith Higgins after lifting the Nicky Rackard Cup. The Mayo man speaks about the challenges of competing at the highest level as a dual player.
Championship restructure? Brolly & McConville solve it
EThe Championship, should it stay or should it go? How should it be restructured? Joe Brolly & Oisín McConville debate it and give their proposals on how the GAA should restructure the competition. The former All-Ireland winners also preview the 2021 Ulster Championship final.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh catches up with John Heslin to get an inter-county player’s views on the current structure of the Championship.
Conor Glass & The Honeybadger
EDerry footballer Conor Glass sits down with Thomas Niblock and former All-Ireland winner Oisín McConville to discuss why he left a professional AFL career in Australia to return to play GAA. What could Rory Gallagher have possibly said on the phone to get someone to leave Melbourne for Maghera?Does Conor think he will win an All-Ireland, what rules need to be scrapped, should McGeeney stay on at Armagh? Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also catches up with Meath dual player Mickey “The Honeybadger” Burke. How did he get that nickname, what goes through a sports person mind when their career is coming to an end & what is going on with Meath?
Paddy Tally reveals all
In his only interview since leaving Down, Paddy Tally chats with Oisín McConville and Thomas Niblock to exclusively reveal the truth behind many stories.Tally talks about the real reasons why he left Down and the truth behind the covid training ban. Oisín and Paddy discuss the art of management and what it is really like for an inter-county manager in the modern game.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also sits down with former All-Ireland referee Brain Gavin who is extremely outspoken on the current state of refereeing in hurling.
Inter-county football... should I stay or should I go?
EFormer Tyrone footballer Connor McAliskey and Antrim’s Michael McCann join Oisín McConville and Thomas Niblock for a frank and open discussion about all things GAA. Connor talks about his recent decision to walk away from the Tyrone set up, the real truth why he did it, does he regret it and could he have been convinced to stay?Michael McCann who came back into the Antrim panel talks about the reasons why he left and returned. McCann also reflects on his side’s championship defeat against Armagh and reveals if he thinks Kieran McGeeney’s side are the real deal or not. The guys also discuss the biggest talking point in Gaelic football at the minute… the Stephen Cluxton mystery. Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also sits down with the recently-retired, five-time All-Ireland Dublin ladies champion, Noelle Healy who has made an unusual transition with the team.
The GAA President
Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh speaks with GAA President Larry Mc Carthy in a wide ranging and fascinating interview. The president discusses the importance of club, the recent rule changes, will Ladies Football and Camogie come under the GAA and what will happen with the provincial championships? Former All-Ireland winners Oisín McConville and Peter Canavan discuss Larry McCarthy's views and give their thoughts on what should happen within the GAA, along with discussing the opening weekend of the championship.
Geezer!
Armagh manager Kieran McGeeney sits down for a rare in-depth chat with former team-mate Oisín McConville and Thomas Niblock. 'Geezer' tells us if Armagh are good enough to win an Ulster Championship and an All-Ireland. Whether he would like to stay on as manager and gives us honest thoughts on what is wrong with the Tailteann Cup. McGeeney, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt also reveals what Conor McGregor is really like.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also caught up with Jamie Wall who had interesting views on the future of hurling and shared his predictions for this year's championship.This podcast is a rare insight into one of the games most determined characters! A must listen for all sports fans!
The Gooch in The Kingdom
EThomas Niblock and Oisín McConville travel to the heart of Kerry to meet arguably the greatest Gaelic footballer of all time, Colm 'The Gooch' Cooper! The Gooch talks about his own career & identity, what made him so good and does he still hold a grudge against Oisin?What is it about Kerry and football? How good is David Clifford really? What happened when the bone in Kieran McGeeney's finger came through his glove?A must listen for all GAA fans!
"You're insulting me!" - Brolly v McConville
EIt was never going to be quiet! Joe Brolly and Oisín McConville join Thomas Niblock to discuss this week’s theme, punditry… Just like in the studio, it gets heated! They clash, they disagree and they tell each other what they think of each other’s styles! Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also chats with Michael Duignan about some of things he has regretted saying and why being a pundit is not as easy as everyone thinks.Buckle up!
RETIREMENT
EFormer Tyrone All-Ireland winner Colm Cavanagh discusses the reasons behind his inter-county retirement with Oisín McConville and Thomas Niblock. Could he have been persuaded to stay on? What is his relationship with Mickey Harte really like? Does inter-county football hold you back in life?Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also chats with All-Ireland winning camogie player Sarah O'Donovan. The former Cork and Dublin star discusses how retirement wasn’t her choice and why coaching isn’t an obvious or easy transition.
RECOVERY: The Graham Geraghty & Rochelle Mullaney story
Graham Geraghty joins Thomas Niblick and Oisin McConville to give his first broadcast interview since he almost died late last year from a brain haemorrhage and aneurysm. He reveals to The GAA social he almost gave up on life, “If you’re going to take me, take me".The former double Allstar, All-Ireland winning captain & Oisin name their three most difficult defenders they ever faced.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh also catches up with Roscommon Ladies footballer Rochelle Mullaney who details her battle with cancer and how she has ambitions of being back on the pitch soon.
Armagh & Tyrone best 15
It was a rivalry that defined a generation. Armagh against Tyrone in the noughties, Irelands two best sides. Oisin McConville and Peter Canavan join Thomas Niblock to pick their best Tyrone and Armagh teams they played in between 2001-2005. Both then create the best combined Armagh/Tyrone side, leaving out friends and teammates to replace them with sworn enemies!!There are arguments, but a combined dream team is eventually settled. We explore the rivalry, the personalities at the heart of a sporting movement and what made this period so special for both counties - while all of Ireland watched on.
What to expect in 2021?
Marc Ó Sé and Oisín McConville join Thomas Niblock to discuss what we can expect from the GAA in 2021 - all the winners and losers!Kerry legend Ó Sé tells us why ‘the Gooch’ is to blame for a softness in the Kingdom and why the mark has to go. Oisín and Marc debate who will win each provincial championship, why Tyrone will be contenders this year and Shane Lowry's involvement with Offaly. Ryan O’Dwyer talks hurling with Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh and discusses that move from Tipperary to Dublin, his brain injury and why Antrim will be a force to be reckoned with 2021.
McConville’s memories
Oisín McConville shares his memories from that 2002 All-Ireland final, from the agony of a missed penalty to the ecstasy of finding the net.