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The GAA Social brings to life stories from Gaelic Games. It features pundit discussions and wide-ranging interviews with the sport’s players, managers and officials.
126 Episodes
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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
1We 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
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just brilliant listening
love the podcast . but very poor coverage of monaghan about 5 minutes of the 30.