The Petey Performance Podcast

This week I’m joined on the podcast by Fermanagh Senior Footballer and online S&C coach, Brenda Bannon. We begin with a conversation around her current hamstring tendinopathy and what she has been doing to address it and get back to full fitness! Brenda opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her rehabilitation so far. She shares the nitty-gritty of her current tailored rehab regimen, what she’s learned through the injury and the nuances of her hamstring rig sessions provided by the GPA. We follow that by going into the intricate balance of maintaining her athletic performance while juggling her commitment to helping others as an online coach. We delve into the mental side of performance and leadership. With the wisdom of someone who has navigated the peaks and valleys of a long competitive career so far, she speaks to the power of maintaining a growth mindset.  Her transition from radiography to strength and conditioning coaching illustrates a bold leap, guided by passion and a desire to impact the lives of athletes more profoundly. This is a particularly individual journey and one that Brenda is proud to speak about candidly. Tackling personal challenges like social anxiety and professional pressures, Brenda offers an unflinchingly honest look at the hurdles of building a personal brand and the emotional toll of a public persona. This episode peels back the layers on how she manages these aspects and the importance of her use of therapy and sports psychology in the past. Brenda speaks about the ebbs and flows of personal development and finding gratitude amid adversity.  We finish off with a discussion about her burgeoning career in S&C coaching, providing a beacon of inspiration for those navigating their paths in sports, leadership, or any field driven by a quest for excellence. Time-Stamps 0:00 - Hamstring Rehab and Performance Strategies 9:57 - Growth Mindset in Sports and Leadership 15:39 - Transitioning to S&C & Career Pressures 27:48 - Social Anxiety and Personal Development 38:47 - Journey of Growth and Gratitude 45:42 - Passion for Strength and Conditioning Coaching 1:00:26 - Personal Growth and Coaching Journey

How does an elite athlete in one sport, that’s just won the ultimate prize of the All-Ireland Final, transition into a completely new sport, as a beginner, in just under a week? How does that athlete then go on to not only develop new skills and earn a position in the starting team, but go on to win a Premiership with her new club in her first season? Jennifer Dunne is a trailblazer, a first of her kind and an incredibly open conversationalist, which is why this conversation is a must not miss for any athlete or fan in Ireland or Australia. Join us as Jennifer, the primary school teacher and All-Ireland winning Dublin-midfielder, shares her extraordinary journey of triumph in Ireland followed by an adventurous chapter and ultimately successful first season in Australia in the AFLW.  From the whirlwind of her All-Ireland victory celebrations to the subsequent plunge into the Australian lifestyle and the Aussie Rules fields, she paints a picture of 2023 that would make any athlete jealous. However, her heartfelt reflections on the challenges and exhilaration of the transitions are as inspiring as they are insightful. Navigating the world of elite sports requires more than just physical prowess; it's a mental game that champions like Jennifer find balance in with grace and resilience. In our conversation, we unpack the complexities of adapting to different team cultures, the art of compartmentalising emotions for peak performance, and the humility needed to approach each new season as a fresh start.  Jennifer's perspective on the Irish influence in the AFLW, coupled with the debate over capping international talent, offers a thoughtful look at the cultural and professional enticements of playing abroad versus the innate passion for representing your club and county in the amateur world of Gaelic games. Jennifer gives us a glimpse into the significant role off-field relationships play in on-field success with both Dublin and Brisbane Lions. Playing with your teammates is one thing, playing with your best friends is something entirely different and more powerful. Through her experiences, we touch on broader themes of travel, emigration, and striking a balance between life as an athlete and the necessity for breaks and self-care. As Jennifer expresses her pride in promoting Ladies Gaelic Football and her hopes to inspire the next generation, listeners will find themselves moved by a story that transcends sports, embodying the universal values of adaptation, connection, and resilience. Time-Stamps 0:00 - Moving Overseas 7:32 - Transitioning Between Gaelic Football and Aussie Rules 17:38 - Irish Players in AFLW 23:20 - Parallels between Brisbane Lions & Dublin GAA 30:01 - Building Team Bonds for Success 41:40 - Time Off and Traveling Abroad 44:25 - Irish Athlete's Experience in Australia 51:24 - Promoting Ladies Gaelic Football 56:56 - Achievements, Lessons, and Role Models

Caught off guard by a health scare on my journey back to the Ireland, I share some insight into what lessons I have learned from navigating that particular challenge. I also share some of my plans for the coming months at home and talk about what excites me about being back on Erin’s isle. However, the focus of this episode is not on myself, it’s on the challenges of athlete rehabilitation in the online space, where the blend of quality and consistency sets the tone for how quickly they can recover and return to competition. There are many nuances to effective coaching and one of the most important is how we communicate. It’s power is underestimated and the skill of communication is often under-trained and not focused on by coaches and practitioners alike. Every word, every gesture carries weight, and finding the right balance is both an art and a science. I also explore the coach-athlete relationship, delving into the psychological factors and resilience needed in the face of injury and the skills of listening, empathy and trust that help the athlete to succeed in their struggles against adversity. Time Stamps 0:00 - Health Scare Traveling Home 7:00 - Quality and Consistency in Rehabilitation 16:52 - Athlete Training and Coaching Dynamics 31:06 - Optimism, Resilience, and Athlete Recovery 36:37 - Effective Communication Strategies in Coaching 40:08 - Mentorship 47:24 - Athlete Recovery and Coaching Opportunities

This week I share my extraordinary experiences with two of the world’s most successful rugby 7s teams, the All Blacks Sevens and the Black Ferns Sevens, and the profound professional and personal insights gained from my couple of days spent shadowing with them in Mount Maunganui. My adventures this month didn't stop there; the lessons learned from the GWS Giants and the dynamics in AFL teams like Collingwood Magpies and NRL’s finest, Wests Tigers have profoundly influenced my approach to teamwork and leadership.  With valuable contributions from Peter Hughes in NZ and other experts in Oz, we delve into the critical balance of collaboration and privacy in the workplace, helping athletes to fulfil their potential while maintaining a focus on connecting with them on a personal level as well. Within this episode, I unravel the art of fostering a family-first culture that aligns with the team’s and community’s values. I share my experiences from two very different professional setups and hopefully impart some wisdom that I have been so lucky to garner on my travels around Australasia.  Hopefully you’ll learn the importance of fostering athlete autonomy and the necessity for coaches to build trust with their athletes first before imparting their wisdom and seeking to help. Join me for these stories and strategies that might just change the game for you too. Time-Stamps 00:00 - Professional Development and Cultural Insights 13:45 - Key Lessons From GWS Giants 18:44 - Effective Communication and Leadership in Sports 30:40 - Developing Positive Habits in Athletes 38:08 - Leadership, Culture, and Skill Development 45:15 - Life Updates

When life hurls a curveball, some of us catch it and change the game. That's exactly what Ian Reeves, formerly of the Gaelic Players Association and now with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, did when he joined the world of Australia’s National Rugby League. Join us for an intimate conversation where Ian gets candid about the highs and lows of his international leap in coaching psychology, and the unexpected conversations that catapulted him from Ireland to Australia.  Discover the day-to-day grind that powers a top NRL team and the personal anecdotes that map Ian's incredible journey of adaptability and learning on the fly. Ian goes into detail on the multifaceted role of a psychologist working with elite athletes and walks us through the evolution of athlete support, detailing the fine balance between enhancing mental skills for peak performance and providing therapeutic aid.  Ian offers insights into how he fosters an environment that encourages athletes to be open, how he builds and maintains strong relationships and offers his playbook for maintaining mental well-being amidst the pressures of professional sports. Wrapping things up with robust insights, Ian Reeves emphasises the importance of nurturing a life beyond the field.  He spotlights NRL star Latrell Mitchell's approach to dual career development, illustrating the power of having diverse interests and preparing for life after sports.  Tune in to this episode for a blend of heartfelt storytelling and actionable advice that's sure to provide you with some actionable insights for the long game ahead. Time-stamps 0:07 - Transition From GPA to NRL 8:11 - Supporting Athletes Through Mental Skills 19:05 - Building Relationships and Communication 32:14 - Personal Development and Relationships Abroad 36:34 - Setting Boundaries in Conversations With Athletes 47:24 - Professional vs Amateur Approach 52:39 - Athletic Identity and Dual Career Development

This week I sit down with All-Ireland winner and new GWS Giant recruit Éilish O’Dowd. Éilish’s story is an interesting one as she is the only All-Ireland winner to have transferred to her adopted county of Dublin and won the championship in the same-season! Following a stellar year last year, she’s swapped the Gaelic football field for the Australian Rules oval and has just begun her journey with the Giants in the AFLW. Éilish provides us with unprecedented insights into the complexities of adapting to new teammates year after year as she fills us in on her journey. Éilish discusses the challenges of mastering a new sport and how her Gaelic prowess gives her an edge in some aspects of AFLW. Having just beaten the Giant’s previous record in the 1.6km time trial, she goes into depth on why she enjoys the aspects of the game that allow her to run in open field. Her anecdotes paint a vivid picture how she aims to grasp the sport's intricacies and the parallels between the elite athleticism demanded in both AFLW and Gaelic football.  Advice from fellow Irish players who've navigated this path into Aussie rules has had a profound impact on Éilish. With the standout message being the journey is as much about patience and joy as it is about skill and strategy. Transitioning isn't just about learning the sports tactics; it's a full-on emotional rollercoaster.  Uprooting from Dublin to Sydney is no easy decision and Éilish goes into detail on the many variables that she had to consider before taking her next step. We also touch on her beginnings in Leitrim, her love of her home county and her initial concerns with transferring club from Ballinamore to Na Fianna. Her candid insights into the realities of burnout in sport paint a real picture of why many athletes have chosen to change clubs in recent years and highlight the dangers of pursuing a route that doesn’t serve you for too long. This podcast provides fantastic insights for any young athletes that are struggling with similar issues or are venturing on similar journeys. Time-Stamps 0:00 - Transitioning into the GWS Giants 7:26 - Learning a New Sport 19:15 - From Dublin to Sydney 28:32 - Club Transfer & Culture Shock 43:10 - Community, Athletics, and Family

This week I sat down with Niamh Kelly of the Adelaide Crows, to talk about her experiences over the off-season, travelling home to Ireland and back Oz, before she’s expected back for pre-season. Niamh shares how she aims to achieve balance between taking a mental break and staying in top shape for the upcoming season. We speak in-depth about all that Niamh has learned over the last 4 years in Australia playing in the AFLW. We also cover her relationships with other AFLW players, such as her sister Grace and former podcast guests, Paris McCarthy & Julie O’Sullivan. Niamh touches on the mentorship that players receive smooths the transition into the league, the evolution of her game, and the focus areas that are critical to her ongoing success. We delve into how Niamh stays grounded and the importance of a strong support network in coming back from serious injuries through the trials of rehabilitation. We go into the added spice that comes with playing against her sister and former Mayo teammates in a new professional sport, and the 'banter' that often comes as part and parcel of the game. Niamh’s positive attitude and clear passion for her athletic endeavours make it apparent why she has been successful, both on and off the field. Join us for an episode that makes it clear just what it takes to succeed as a professional athlete in a country away from home! *Time-Stamps* 0:00 - Niamh’s Off-season Training and Adventures 3:57 - Learning and Growing in the AFLW 9:58 - Niamh’s Journey Towards AFL Success so far 21:59 - AFLW from an Irish Perspective 29:28 - Australian vs Irish Culture and Self-Belief 41:54 - Ideas to Grow Both AFLW & Ladies Gaelic Football 49:39 - Balancing Work and Life in Sport

This week I speak on a couple of topics that I and others have probably been reluctant to speak about in the past. However, authenticity is really important to me and I’ve made a conscious decision to be open and honest on this podcast about the wins that I have, as well as the struggles that I’ve been dealing with. Some of these struggles will be familiar to fellow coaches, podcasters & business owners, and maybe even those not in this space as well. I speak about the struggles of booking guests and how I frame this barrier in my mind. I touch on the resistance faced on a daily basis by content creators, the dedication it takes to polish interviewing skills and the self-criticism and commitment that sometimes is necessary to be a standout in your own field. This episode peels away the glamour to expose the persistence and personal growth required to steer the ship of self-employment. Join me as I reflect on the lessons learned from both the triumphs and the setbacks, and how leading a team adds weight to every decision I make. Online coaching is often thought about as an incredibly lucrative career path and even though it comes with its perks, there are many unspoken problems that coaches face when moving into the online space. I make an attempt to touch on a couple of them today. Speaking on the self-criticism and doubt that comes with clients departing and the therapeutic challenge of knowing you're enough, I do my best to be as candid as possible with the hope that it will help someone else in a similar position. And as well as that, I speak about the balancing act of fostering deep connections and managing social anxiety while holding space for others. Life as an entrepreneur is a journey of continuous learning, and I speak again about the importance of self-improvement in accelerating your career development and practice. I finally touch on my attempt to add value to the industry in laying out the blueprint of my online mentorship program, designed to guide others in mastering their craft, be it speed development or effective team communication. If I can help a few people that were in the position I was in a few years ago, then it’ll be more than worthwhile to choose optimism, creation and putting my process out into the world, rather than choosing to stay pessimistic, cynical and closed-off. Drop me a message with the word “Mentorship” if you’re interested in hearing more about what I’ve put together! Time-Stamps 0:00 - Struggles of Being an Entrepreneur 13:02 - Navigating Personal Growth and Social Anxiety 26:13 - Importance of Learning and Personal Development 32:51 - Optimism in Creating Mentorship Programs 39:11 - Performance Mentoring and Rehab Opportunities

My decision to move down under to Australia was made with long-term personal and professional growth in mind. My recent experiences in Oz have been incredibly valuable and I thought it appropriate to give the listeners a little life update in relation to everything that’s been happening in both my professional and private life. With a conscious effort being made to grow the online business of Petey Performance, I have a number of  online client victories and personal milestones to share with you guys. I'm thrilled to unpack these narratives, from the gutsy rehabs to the thrilling triumphs of athletes preparing for county trials and new opportunities. Each step and each story only fuels my desire to continue helping more people and providing new and informative content for my clients, followers and listeners. Navigating the complexities of competition, I've realised that self-awareness is undoubtedly one of the most valuable qualities in a coaches arsenal. I touch on that, but I also dive into detail around my own process for goal-setting and feedback, diving into the art of self-assessment and the importance of recognising the thin line between self-perception and reality. I speak again about how a relevant needs analysis can unmask your potential and the transformative impact of consistent practice and new behaviour implementation. Finally, I give you guys insights into the many valuable shadowing opportunities that I’ve had so far in Oz. I provide insights into my trips to NRL club, Wests Tigers, the South Sydney Rabbitohs and my experience in Melbourne with AFL club, Collingwood FC and two private gym facilities as well. These insights cut through the noise, painting a picture of what it takes to nurture a growth mindset within the bustling ecosystem of a performance team. Join me as I share what lessons I’ve learned on my travels so far, with many more to come I’m sure! Time-stamps 0:00 Update and Success Stories in Australia 6:29 Goal Setting and Seeking Feedback 9:46 Personal Growth and Sporting Experiences 22:36 Coaching, Culture, and Performance Staff Importance 31:22 Coaching and Gym Observations and Experiences 44:17 March Membership Availability and Mentorship Introduction

Join us on episode 135 of the podcast as we are joined for a conversation on athletic mastery by Shane Lehane, esteemed athletic development coach for the Sydney Swans.  From the rugged fields of Leicester Tigers to the exhilarating pitches of the Melbourne Rebels, Shane shares his 18-year journey through the world of S&C, blending physical prowess with tactical understanding of game-demands. Discover the cultural fabric and communication styles that Irish coaches like Shane weave into the Australian sports tapestry, enhancing team dynamics and coaching effectiveness in ways that textbook strategies never could. Shane recounts his transition from elite rugby union to his current role Australian rules football. His candid reflections on self-discovery and the challenges of mastering a new sport provide valuable lessons for any young coaches entering the industry. Discover how his Irish heritage shapes his coaching philosophy and fuels his courage to share innovative methodologies with peers and players alike. Shane recounts insightful reflections on strength and conditioning, and his invaluable advice for aspiring athletes and coaches navigating the competitive landscape. Each chapter of our conversation unveils philosophical insights that embrace fluidity over rigidity, respecting the nuanced artistry of training. Join us for an enlightening episode that transcends physical training, delving into the essence of coaching and how we can effectively combine game models, physical preparation and psychological conditioning to develop well-rounded athletes that are capable of playing the game at the highest level possible. Time-Stamps 0:00 Exploring Systems Thinking in Team Sports 11:54 The Evolution of Athletic Development Coaching 19:59 Team Performance in a New Environment 28:52 Tactical Periodization and Evaluating Athletic Role 36:57 Coaching Skills and Overcoming Presentation Reluctance 40:15 Multiple Perspectives in Strength Conditioning 52:56 Understanding Context and Nuance in Training 1:06:22 Advice for Breaking Into the Industry

Joining the conversation this week is Graeme Morris. Graeme is an Athletic Development Coach & leads the Rehab program at NRL powerhouse, Wests Tigers. This is Graeme’s second appearance on the podcast, so we had a lot to talk about, as we sat down in the Tigers’ facility for a conversation about all things to do with his role, the coaching team and the amazing culture at the Tigers! With the competitive season on the horizon, we spoke about what excites Graeme the most about waking up for work every morning and his aspirations for the season ahead. Graeme also leads the speed and agility portion of the Tigers’ program, so we spent some time conversing about what he’s been interested by and has been observing of late. We delve into the art of tailoring training to the individual, while never losing sight of the team's overarching game plan. It's a delicate dance of precision and adaptability, and we offer a peek behind the curtain of what it takes to keep an elite rugby league squad at its peak, both physically and psychologically. But beyond the field, we chart Graeme’s personal journey over the last couple of years as he’s transitioned from working for himself, to landing his dream job in team-sport. If you’re a coach or athlete involved in team-sport, then this episode should have some nuggets of wisdom within the incredibly real conversation we had! What a way to kick off season 4! Time-Stamps 0:07 Authenticity, Rehab, Speed, and Excitement 13:56 Professional Athlete Training and Team Culture 23:19 Speed and Agility Coaching in Rugby 35:17 Coaching Approach and Authenticity 39:11 Authenticity and Purpose in Coaching 51:02 Lessons Learned in Coaching and Life 1:00:13 Advice for Younger Self Lessons Learned

Get ready to be transported from the rolling green fields of Kerry to the dynamic, fast-paced world of Australian Rules Football. We have two former Kerry footballers, Paris McCarty and Julie O'Sullivan, who now don the red and white of Sydney Swans, sharing their incredible journey on this podcast. They offer a sneak peek into their training regime, their Irish origins, and the stark reality of limited professional sports opportunities in Kerry that spurred their move Down Under.  Drawing parallels between Gaelic football, Australian Rules Football, and basketball.  This isn't a mere chatter about their transition from Gaelic football to AFL, but a profound conversation on pre-season training, recuperation from injuries, and the relentless pursuit to stay on top. It's about the grit, the sweat, and the sheer willpower, wrapped in motivational anecdotes.  The episode doesn't stop there. We also delve into the nuances of different coaching styles across continents. Our guests open up about the transparency, personal connection, and relentless drive their Australian coach brings to the game while highlighting the stark contrast with the US coaching style experienced by Paris during her D1 collegiate basketball career. The conversation eventually navigates to their strengths, weaknesses, unforgettable moments, and their aspirations. So, tune in and immerse yourself in the world of women's AFL, the life of professional athletes, and their indomitable spirit. Time-Stamps 0:07 - AFLW and Kerry Football Journey 10:21 - Athletes' Experience in New York 15:52 - Skills in AFL and Gaelic Football 25:25 - Pre-Season Challenges and Game Importance 30:25 - Management and Coaching Styles 34:41 - Women's Australian Rules Football Strategies 47:54 - Irish Athletes on AFLW and Journeys 1:01:03 - Take Opportunities, Never Settle

With my impending move to Australia on the horizon, today’s solo episode covers my plans for the immediate future as transition the bulk of my business online.  I'll share the ups, downs, and all the in-betweens of this huge life shift, including potential opportunities this move might bring and the importance of prioritising mental health amidst change. You'll also hear about my exciting plans to launch a virtual course/ mentorship program this coming January. I cover athletic development and coaching eye in detail and outline how you can create a comprehensive and time-efficient process for improving speed and change of direction. I'll share my experiences, insights, and some practical tips on topics like understanding biomechanics, effective communication with athletes, goal setting, and the gap that often exists in the middle to late stages of rehab and return to performance. We'll also discuss the different archetypes of athletes and how to tailor their training to individualise their process and thus improve their performance.  I also go through the infrasternal angles and how knowing what to look for  in relation to athlete characteristics has influenced my thought-process for development of speed and change of direction abilities. We'll talk about how wide ISAs have a natural advantage in change of direction tasks due to their wider stance and ability to generate high forces, but we'll also discuss the potential strain and risks that come along as a result of their poorer reactivity. I'll also reveal some common injuries seen in these athletes and discuss the impact of incorporating reactive and plyometric work into their training. If you're currently perplexed by athlete archetypes and don’t know where to start when it comes to coaching eye for speed development, you definitely don't want to miss this. Join Petey Performance: peteyperformance.com  Time-Stamps 0:07 - Moving to Australia and Future Ventures 12:45 - Designing a Comprehensive Athlete Training Program 20:19 - Wide ISAs and Running Mechanics Effects 24:41 - Gaelic Games Sprinting Techniques Analysis 35:37 - Identifying Overrotators and Underrotators 39:24 - Frontside and Backside Mechanics in Athletic 46:16 - Connections and Coaching in Australia

Get ready to lace up your football boots and step onto the pitch as Rory and I take you through his recent Monaghan Senior County Championship win. We invite you into the team huddle as we speak about Scotstown's championship journey, revealing how he handled the post-game press, safeguarded team strategies, and navigated the recovery period. As he reveals the highs and lows of their victory, you'll gain insight into the intense competitiveness of Monaghan Senior club football, the importance of a deep and diverse panel, and Scotstown's secrets to in-team harmony. But the football talk doesn't stop at the club championships. We discuss how they've been preparing for the upcoming Ulster club championship, revealing the unique strategies for maintaining focus and keeping intensity high. We also delve into the evolving goalkeeping role, with Rory sharing his thoughts on shot stopping, kicking, and high balling techniques that feature prominently in modern games.  As we wrap up, Rory and I take a break from the game to share some of the life lessons he's gleaned from his career on the pitch so far. He underscores the importance of life beyond football, and discusses how to strike the balance between being a competitive athlete and maintaining his mental health. This conversation is a testament to the complexities of football and life, revealing how to navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories in both. So, strap on your shin guards, press play, and join us for an engaging, in-depth conversation on the beautiful game. Join the GAA Gamespeed Blueprint: peteyperformance.com  Time-Stamps  0:02 - Post-Championship Victory and Recovery Discussion 5:38 - Challenges and Depth in Club Championships 14:31 - Achievements, Leadership, and Future Goals 22:17 - Challenges and Expectations in Ulster Championship 26:57 - Friendship and Leadership in Gaelic Football 33:36 - The Evolution of Goalkeeper Role 44:57 - Shot Stopping and Kick Outs in Gaelic Football 52:50 - Penalty Shootouts and the Desire to Win  1:01:58 - Achievements, Athletes, and Life Lessons 1:10:05 - Scotstown's Club Championship Victory

This episode is from a guest appearance on The DGR Podcast with David Grey. We speak about my approach to coaching and my focus on late-stage rehab, running mechanics, and return to performance. I share my personal experiences as both an athlete and a coach and I go into detail on how coaches' words and actions can greatly influence our athletes and clients. We speak a lot about business, exploring the hybrid model of in-person and online coaching. We delve into why movement matters in training and why some may be oblivious to the value of external feedback through the use of video, despite it's importance. On the same note, we talk about how to systemise late-stage rehab for maximal efficiency. I share my insights on how to assess and improve an athlete's technique, emphasising the importance of coach-athlete relationships and how they can be used to enhance performance. Finally, we turn the spotlight on some recent tough decisions that I've made including why I turned down an head inter-county job.  We discuss how saying “no” can open doors for personal and professional growth and how building a solid brand can influence your career trajectory. Whether you're a coach, an athlete, or just intrigued by the business of sports performance, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey. Join the GAA Gamespeed Blueprint: peteyperformance.com  Time Stamps 0:02 - Sports Performance Coaching and Business Insights 8:15 - The Impact of Mindset on Performance 19:43 - Impact of Online Coaching and Movement 34:30 - Improve Coaching and Systemize Rehab Programs 42:39 - Coaching and Influencing in Athletic Training 47:57 - Job Decision 59:21 - Collaboration and Equipment in Performance Training 1:04:04 - Sports Injury, Future Plans in Australia

Join us for a candid and insightful discussion with a player who I've coached for the last couple of years and a good friend/teammate, Siobhán McGrath, as we walk down memory lane, reminiscing about our past seasons and her recent retirement from senior club football. Siobhan opens up about the mounting mental pressures her team faced after unexpected triumphs, and how they've navigated the highs and lows of the game. As we delve deeper into our conversation, Siobhan shares riveting anecdotes from her time with the Dublin senior ladies, painting a vivid picture of the adrenaline, nerves, and pressure that colour every game. We pivot towards the subject of mental awareness in sports, shining a spotlight on player roles and the essentiality of a warrior mentality. We also dive into how communication influences a team's performance and how Siobhan developed her football skills over time. Finally, we engage in an enlightening discussion about Siobhan’s decision to retire, the expectations of the Dublin panel, and her dreams of winning a senior title with Thomas Davis. We explore the importance of goal setting, the spirit of community in Thomas Davis, and the challenges of striking a balance between work and play. Rounding up, we emphasise the significance of embracing enjoyment in life, learning from feedback, and cherishing the people and moments around us. Don't miss out on this comprehensive exploration of Gaelic Football, retirement reflections, and the pursuit of balance and joy in life. Purchase the GAA Gamespeed Blueprint Here! Time-Stamps 0:07 - Club Season and Retirement Reflections 12:28 - Pressure and Performance in Sports 17:52 - Mental Awareness in Sports 23:27 - Communication in Football Development 28:07 - Player Management in Gaelic Football Evolution 41:01 - Retirement and Reflecting on Achievements 48:41 - Goal Setting and Community Spirit 1:02:33 - Finding Balance and Enjoyment in Life

Want to maximise your athletic potential in the off-season? What if you could turn your downtime into an opportunity for remarkable improvement? This episode is the one-stop source for all athletes seeking to enhance their performance during the off-season. We start by discussing the importance of taking a well-deserved break, conducting an in-depth review of the past year, and setting goals for the future. We highlight the crucial role of coaches in providing feedback and your role in introspection to identify possible roadblocks in your athletic journey. Looking for actionable insights on how training impacts your performance? We’ve got you covered. We tackle the concept of negative transfer of training and its effects on athletes. Discover how repetitive movement patterns train our bodies to excel, contributing to your sudden leaps in performance. We stress the necessity of deliberate practice with a focus on your weak points, not just your strengths. And yes, we talk about why pitch work in the off-season is a game-changer! But that's not all. We delve into strategies for athletic improvement, with an emphasis on the vital role of nutrition. Hear us discuss why carbohydrates are crucial for intensity and performance, and why professional advice from nutritionists is a must. Plus, we touch on other elements of a healthy lifestyle, like adequate sleep and recovery. Wrapping up, we explore the GAA Gamespeed Blueprint, a tailored 16-week program to hone speed and agility. So, are you committed to becoming a better athlete in the off-season? Jump in and let’s start this journey together. Time-Stamps  0:02 - Mistakes in Offseason Training 10:07 - Training's Impact on Athletic Performance 17:10 - Improving Athletic Skills in the Off-Season 24:28 - Training Strategies for Athletic Improvement 38:18 - Importance of Carbohydrates in Athletic Training 43:42 - GAA Gamespeed Blueprint and Future Plans

It's all about choices and timing. Here's a tale that takes you through the obstacle-laden road of decision-making that came my way when I was offered a Head S&C role in an Inter-county setup. The role was a perfect fit, yet the timing couldn't have been more off. Find out how I managed to steer clear of burnout and stress by choosing to not take up this opportunity. A six-day coaching routine had already been taking its toll on me, and the prospect of taking up the Inter-county role felt like it would mean sacrificing precious moments with family and friends, and my love for sport. I hope my story inspires you to make decisions that work best for you and not just align with what's expected. As I explore alternatives, like applying for a working holiday visa in Australia, I encourage you to listen in and remember - it's your life, your decisions. Tune in now for an insightful solo episode on the Petey Performance Podcast. Time-Stamps 0:07 - Turning Down an Intercounty Role 16:35 - Choosing Myself Over Others

In this week's episode, we engage in a candid conversation with Sports Nutritionist, John O’Connor. We discuss in depth the different elements of Sports Nutrition within the GAA. John gives us insights into questions at the elite level, alcohol consumption, the HPX Conference, and his career to date. We also cover the GAA industry as a whole from a Sports Nutrition and S&C standpoint. Tune in now for an insightful episode with John O’Connor. Time Stamps 0:07Body Composition and Nutrition in Sports 13:26Nutrition's Importance in Sports Performance 22:23Drinking Bans in Team Sports Impact 29:57Alcohol, Nutrition, and Body Composition 35:50Lecturing, Relationships, and Sports Nutrition 44:07Sports Nutritionist in Ireland 57:04LeBron James and Elite Mindset 1:03:07Finding Your Own Path, Avoid Comparison

In this week's episode we engage in a deep conversation with Antrim GAA football and Business Owner, Eoghan McCabe. We explore the world of a dedicated athlete in the demanding realm of Inter-County GAA. Eoghan gives us some insights on injury management, business growth, networking, and achieving balance in his work and personal life. We cover a ton of valuable topics ranging from, injuries and rehabilitation strategies, training and seeking external expertise, the dynamics of business and adding value to clients, scaling and challenging oneself, embracing opportunities, building industry connections, achieving a balanced life, and adopting a mindset of abundance. Through intriguing discussions, gain a deeper understanding of Eoghan's experiences, aspirations, and the journey to his success both on and off the field. Tune in now for an insightful episode with Eoghan McCabe. Time Stamps 02:07 - Networking  09:09 - How coaching has accelerated growth  15:47 - Pushing Business 22:31 - Learning from Failure 30:02 - Pushing through injuries 37:15 - The Struggle of additional sessions 43:18 - Enjoying the fruits of your labour 51:21 - Secrecy in GAA 01:02:07 - The mindset of doubting others