John Coughlan reviews ‘The Greatest Show on Earth: The Inside Story of the Legendary 1970 World Cup’ by Andrew Downie.

The cover of ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’ by Andrew Downie shows Pelé with a raised fist, held in the arms of his teammate Jairzinho. It is one of the most iconic images in football, taken after Pelé scored the first of Brazil’s four goals against Italy in the final of the 1970 World Cup. 

That World Cup, hosted by Mexico, was the first to be televised in colour. It was also the first to feature red and yellow cards and to permit up to two substitutions which previously were only permitted in the case of injury. 

The Brazil team that won the final used none, with the same eleven players starting and finishing the 90 minutes.  

The 1970s with Pelé, Cruyff, and Beckenbauer, to name a few of the luminaries of the time, may well have been the heyday of football. I was not around for that World Cup in 1970 (I was born in the 80s), but it seems that for many who were, that competition was the very apogee of the sport. 

Andrew Downie is one such person. 

His book is an unusual one in many ways. It describes every single game in the 1970 World Cup. It was a tournament of memorable matches and moments, but some games – take for example the nil all between hosts Mexico and the USSR in the first game of the tournament – don’t necessarily warrant much description at all. 

The author adds descriptions here and there, helping the reader understand the context of each game. But for the most part, the action is described by the participants – players, coaches, hangers on. The accounts can’t have been given directly to the author, rather it seems he extracted them from other accounts – books, magazines, or whatever. 

The book is a real challenge to something I have come to realise when reading books about football – the football itself is rarely the most interesting part. But this book is all about the football, with little of the off-field colour that usually brings football books to life. 

But it does make for interesting reading, especially when the accounts of players from opposing teams contrast and contradict each other. In Brazil’s intense and dirty encounter with Uruguay in the semi-final, Pelé not only got away with an elbow on Uruguayan defender Dagoberto Fontes, he got a freekick himself for doing it. 

Downie quotes Fontes as saying Pelé caught him in the eye with a deliberate and very violent act. For his part, Pelé says he did it in self-defence, a kind of Minority Report situation, anticipating that he was about to be fouled, he lashed out, landing an elbow on Fontes for intending to foul The King. It seems the ref agreed with Pelé.

If you were to read this book in isolation, it might be a little on the dry side, but with Youtube allowing you to watch the matches being described by the participants, their accounts really do come alive. 

The television producers behind the broadcast of that World Cup seemed to have been so excited by the arrival of colour that they made the surprising choice of really – and I mean really – enhancing the colour. This is not the colour of the ordinary world, there is some pre-Instagram filter that really makes it pop. 

Brazil look beautiful in their luminous canary yellow. The pitches are greener than any grass I have ever walked on. Even England look swish in their all-white kit, a la Real Madrid. 

I found this book interesting because it gave me the opportunity to look at matches and moves, I wouldn’t have otherwise. I had seen Carlos Alberto’s goal in the final many times, but I hadn’t seen Tostao’s assist for Clodoaldo goal in the semis. It’s magic. I had seen Gordon Banks famous save from Pelé, but I hadn’t seen Felix, the Brazilian keeper, pull off an almost equally impressive save from a Franny Lee header in the same game. 

If you are interested in a deep dive into the most lauded of all the World Cups, the book is worthwhile, just make sure you have your phone to hand so you can watch the action in all its technicolour glory. 

John Coughlan co-hosts the Dynamo Football Bookclub, available wherever you get your pods.

John Coughlan finds the autobiography of the world’s greatest footballer a boring read.

In our two years of reading football books on the Dynamo Football Bookclub, we have observed a consistent pattern – the world’s most eminent players often seem to be among its most captivating characters. 

Maradona and Cruyff would be on football’s Mount Rushmore, and both were totally captivating characters. Garrincha too; a legend who lived an enthralling and ultimately tragic life. Even the likes of Gazza and Ibrahimovic; they didn’t reach the heights of the others but were among the top players of their generations and are both notably quirky characters in their own suitably enigmatic ways. 

The fact that Messi is an Argentinian dribbler means he is always compared to Maradona. But in some ways, it makes more sense to compare him to Pelé. 

Pelé and Maradona were before my time, but for all Maradona’s genius, it always seemed that Pelé was considered the greater – if not necessarily better – player. There seems to be a consensus now that Messi is the best of all, or at least the best since Pelé. In terms of style, Messi is akin to Maradona but in terms of success – and ultimately greatest – it is Pelé who is his peer. 

There is one other way that the two make good bedfellows, Messi and Pelé. For all their sporting successes and the incredible lives they have led, they have remained steadfastly boring throughout. 

Reading Pelé’s autography – with its aptly uninteresting title ‘My Autobiography’ – one can’t help but be struck by the odd boring-ness of the man. He is not dull, as such, indeed he seems a very genial fellow with nothing bad to say about anyone, but there remains something very boring about him.  

Why is this?  It must be partly timing. Pelé was great, the greatest, everyone agreed. But he came to fame in 1958 when, as he points out in the book, there were no mobile phones. More significantly, there isn’t much footage. 

That in itself may be partly down to geography. 

Pelé famously played most of his career in Brazil, where he was deemed ‘unexportable’ by an act of Parliament. Had he scored 569 goals for Real Madrid rather than Santos, there would probably be more film of him. Even the high points of his part in the 1970 World Cup win – all of which was caught on camera – focus less on the goals he scored than the ones he didn’t – a near miss from halfway against Czechoslovakia, rounding the keeper and putting it wide against Uruguay, and that save by Gordon Banks. 

As there is no way to go back and change this, all of us who arrived after Pelé, just have to take it as given. Pelé was the best. Maybe Messi is better but really, who knows? 

All the greats mentioned above were eminently more interesting than Pelé but that’s because they were eminently more flawed. Maradona like drugs and controversy, Cruyff was some kind of footballing megalomaniac, Gazza was Gazza. 

What makes Pelé boring ultimately is that he seems to have been a pretty happy and stable individual. He played guitar, acted in films, and generally said the right thing in any given moment. But none of this made him interesting. He was nice. And nice is boring.  

His autobiography is not particularly interesting. I knew the broad outlines of the Pelé story going in and that’s all that’s there really. I finished the book thinking that it’s a shame that there isn’t a more interesting book about him. But then, it might not be possible to write an interesting book about Pelé. In a strange way that says something very good about the man.

Captain, secretary, teacher, and sea swimmer: Aisling O’Connell wears many hats, writes Niamh Coughlan, all leading back to her community. As a cornerstone of the Skibbereen RFC women’s team, she has turned a passion for rugby into a lifestyle that spans leadership on the field and dedicated service off it. 

Aisling grew up in Lisheen, which is about a five-minute drive from Skibbereen. “It’s a gorgeous spot that I’ve learned to appreciate more with age; the community spirit there is second-to-none. I went to school at Gaelscoil Dr. Uí Shúilleabháin – where I actually teach now. Being one of six kids meant a busy house and constant outdoor adventures with our massive circle of cousins. Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better childhood.”

As a child, Aisling took part in many different extracurricular activities. “Growing up, I tried everything from ballet and music to GAA and basketball. Luckily for my parents’ eardrums, only the sports stuck! I played football for Ilen Rovers and basketball with the Skibbereen Eagles for years. I also trained as a lifeguard and water safety instructor.”

After returning to playing basketball a few years after starting university, one of Aisling’s teammates, Aoife Breen, approached her and asked if she would like to try rugby with the Skibbereen women’s team. It was going to be the first adult women’s team in the club and seemed like an exciting opportunity. “I think the fact it was a new team made starting easier, as I wasn’t worried about being the only one who didn’t have a clue what was going on. I was hooked after the first training and haven’t looked back since. It definitely took a while to grasp all the new rules but it’s an insanely enjoyable sport and one I took to quite easily.”

From the get-go, Skibbereen RFC was a welcoming, tight-knit environment. Despite having only a few training sessions under her belt, Aisling was named as a starter for their first home game. “I think I vomited with nerves before that game! It was an incredible game, so much fun and a huge amount of support from all the girls as well as our then coach – Sana Govender. Once that first game ended, I knew it was a sport and a club that I wanted to be involved in. The social side also helped things for sure.”

Skibbereen RFC is part of a dedicated rugby community in West Cork, joining the ranks of clubs like Bandon, Bantry Bay, Clonakilty, Kinsale, and Dunmanway. “We’re immensely proud of Skibbereen rugby. It’s a club built on community, family, and genuine inclusion. Our volunteers are incredible; you never have to ask twice for help with a fundraiser. The club simply wouldn’t run without the dedication of people like our groundskeeper, Paddy Hurley, and committee members like Eric Coombes, Jacinta Veale, and Paula Dinan. Between them and our top-tier coaches, there’s a constant drive to provide the best experience for every player.”

Following the initial success of the ladies’ team, members faced challenges as numbers dropped due to various factors. This subsequently led to Skibbereen ladies joining forces with Bantry Bay RFC. “Between travel, college, and our best players being scouted for All-Ireland League (AIL) clubs, our numbers dropped. For the last two seasons, however, we’ve found a new lease on life by amalgamating with Bantry Bay RFC. It’s a partnership that runs from U14s right through to the seniors, and it’s been brilliant. Combining our players, coaches, and facilities has given us a massive boost, and our underage teams are now going from strength to strength.”

A few years ago, Aisling was named captain of the ladies’ team, which was a milestone that stepped her into a vital leadership role and made her a focal point for the rest of the squad “Being named captain was a privilege, especially with a squad that showed up and gave everything. Rugby is unique because the referee primarily communicates through the captain, so I had to be incredibly dialled in. It was vital to be the voice for my teammates, whether they had concerns about early scrum pushes or high tackles, while balancing that with respect for the ref. I always strove to be approachable, making sure the girls felt heard and that their welfare was the top priority on the pitch.”

A stand-out moment came a few years back when the ladies team defied the odds to reach the All-Ireland semi-finals. “The women’s adult rugby team had exploded in the first season; within two years, we’d won every competition in sight. We were even chosen as one of two teams to represent Munster in the Junior All-Ireland. We were gutted to miss out in the semi-finals, but the experience is something I’ll never forget.”

Being captain also requires a specific skillset: maintaining a calm, level-headed demeanour and being prepared to take the hits as they come. “It can be much tougher when you’re having a hard game yourself and feeling hard done by. It’s difficult at times to remain calm and explain yourself without becoming argumentative or questioning the referee’s decision. As Captain, you must be able to calm others down even when you may feel the same way. If you’re being beaten badly and team morale is low, it can be hard to encourage others, but digging deep and leading by example is vital in those situations.”

Confidence-building was the primary leadership tool Aisling used to drive team dynamics. “In the early stages, it’s easy to feel intimidated because you’re learning so many new things like tackling, contact, positioning – it’s all completely unfamiliar. But when my coaches and teammates celebrated the small wins, created a supportive environment, and encouraged me to just give it a go, I felt like I could actually do this. I started relaxing, playing more freely, and improving way faster than I thought I could. And honestly, that’s what kept me coming back. Feeling included and capable made me want to stick with it, and over time, it’s helped me grow not just as a player, but as a person.”

As in all sports, there are highs and lows, but Aisling views the lowest points as the places where the most progress is actually made. “Honestly, tough losses are just part of rugby, especially while you’re still growing in the game. The key is not to let one bad result shake your belief. In women’s rugby, so many teams are building and learning together, so setbacks are often where the biggest progress comes from. After a loss, I try to take a bit of time to feel it, then look at what went wrong without being too hard on myself. Focusing on small positives , like an improved defence or a stronger set piece, helps turn it into motivation. Good teams lean on each other, keep the energy supportive, and remember the enjoyment of playing in the first place.”

Although quick to challenge the common perception that rugby is an inherently dangerous sport, Aisling argues that with strict officiating and proper coaching in tackling, passing, and rucking, it is no more prone to injury than any other field game. 

“I really want to shift the idea that rugby is just a ‘rough sport’ where you’re bound to get hurt. Between the strict laws and the referees who enforce them, you’re no more likely to get injured here than in any other sport. It’s physical, sure, but once you’ve mastered the right techniques for rucking and tackling, that danger factor disappears. People also think you need a certain build to play, but some of our smallest girls are the ones I’d least like to be tackled by!”

Aisling’s favourite opponents are Dolphin RFC. “We have met them numerous times over the past few years and are always a tough yet kind and fun opponent. Despite ‘hammering’ each other on the pitch, both teams share a close bond, always staying social and supporting each other through injuries.”

Training has looked very different for Aisling lately. After rupturing her ACL in the final two minutes of a match in December 2024, she underwent surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation journey that kept her off the rugby pitch for nine months. “After a long road of gym work, physio, and solo runs, I was cleared to return to training in September 2025. However, following the passing of my brother Stephen that same month, I’ve taken a small break, with plans to return in the next few weeks. The support from the club and my teammates across Skibbereen and Bantry Bay has been huge through everything; I’ll be forever grateful to have that community behind me.”

Niamh Quinn, the athletic therapist working with the team this year, has been instrumental in the injury recovery process. “We’ve all learned a huge amount from Niamh, and it’s clearly reflected in our lower injury rate this season. Rugby is incredibly physical, so the real work of recovery is proactive. It’s all about injury prevention, peak fitness, and maintaining the right mindset.”

Even with a busy professional life, Aisling maintains a dedicated routine that balances training with active recovery. A cornerstone of her day is her commitment to a daily sea swim. Her day begins at 6:15am with a dog walk and a quick dip in the sea – a non-negotiable ritual before she heads to work at 8am. She works as a primary school teacher, teaching first and second class at Gaelscoil Dr. Uí Shúilleabháin, and two years ago, Aisling stepped into the role of Club Secretary for Skibbereen RFC.

“I’m very lucky to be part of a school that is so inclusive and gives children opportunities they often aren’t granted. A few of my students actually started rugby through the IRFU ‘Give It A Try’ sessions I ran at the club, and they’ve been hooked ever since. Between those programmes and the work Skibbereen RFC and Munster Rugby do by sending coaches into the schools, it’s a brilliant way to encourage the next generation to get involved.”

After a productive workday and a quick caffeine stop, she shifts back into athlete mode for an afternoon gym session or run. “Evenings are dedicated to school prep and rugby administration, and I use saunas regularly for recovery. As well as that, no matter how sore I am the day after a game, I ensure I get out for a walk and do some stretching to keep moving. And I always take the dog out for another walk before bed!”

When she isn’t training, Aisling is an avid reader. “I spend much of my free time browsing the shelves at Worm Books in Schull or sitting by the shore. I believe beaches are a year-round joy, not just for the summer months.” Beyond her books, she cherishes time with family, coffee dates with friends, and exploring the landscape of West Cork. “We are incredibly lucky to live where we do, and it’s something I’ll never take for granted.

“A dream day for me has to be a sunny, (unusually) quiet summer’s day in Schull. I’d start early with the sunrise, a dog walk, and a swim, then just sit on the strand reading in the sun. I’d head over to Budds of Ballydehob for coffee with a friend and catch up with family at home. To finish, I’d go back to the beach for another dip and a BBQ for dinner. Being in bed by 10pm after all that? The dream!”

Looking ahead to the rest of 2026, Aisling’s primary focus is her much-anticipated return to competitive rugby. “I can’t wait to get back to competitive rugby. When you’re used to training two or three times a week with a match every Sunday, losing that routine is a huge life change. Being back on the pitch made me realise how much I rely on the sport for my mental well-being; the ‘buzz’ you get after a session or a game is something you just can’t find anywhere else.”

Eve’s love for the game started at home in the back garden, and she has been a proud wearer of the Bantry Blues jersey ever since. When she isn’t on the football field, the former Cork All-Ireland minor winner balances her sporting life with her work as a nurse. Growing up in Bantry alongside her parents, two sisters, and brother, Eve’s schedule was always packed. She went to Our Lady of Mercy National School before moving on to Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí, and between school sports and the club, there was rarely a quiet day. 

The 25-year-old puts a lot of her development as a player down to the environment she grew up in. She credits the close-knit community in Bantry and the town’s deep-rooted GAA culture for shaping her development as a player. “My earliest memories would be playing in the back garden with my siblings, no matter the weather, or heading down to training with the boys teams in Wolfe Tone Park.” She remains quick to acknowledge the role her hometown played in her success: “I was very lucky to have grown up in such a beautiful place by the sea, with a great sense of community and a brilliant GAA club behind me.”  

Her family remains the backbone of her sporting career, having been the ones who first nudged her toward the pitch. “My parents and siblings played a massive role in encouraging me when I was younger, and they’re still my biggest supporters today.” Beyond the support at home, it’s the social aspect of the game that keeps her motivated. “Heading to training isn’t just about the drills, it’s about lifelong friendships and the chance to catch up with the girls every week that I enjoy the most!”

Growing up, Eve did a variety of different sports. “I did athletics, basketball, Irish dancing, hip-hop dancing and swimming over the years but Gaelic football was always my favourite.”  That variety paid off, particularly her time on the track, which gave her the pace she is known for today. “I competed in athletics for years and we’d head to the Community Games every summer. There was a good group of us, from the young ages up to minors, who made the trip to Athlone every year.”

Given her background on the track, it’s no surprise that Eve is most at home in the middle of the field.  “My most natural position would be either midfield or half forward as I feel most effective when I am able to utilise my running ability and to be a link between my teammates.”

Eve’s path at county level started back in 2014 with the Under 14s, and she worked her way up through the ranks, playing minor by 2018. Her progress didn’t stop there, as she was brought into the Cork senior panel for the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Most recently, she was back in the red jersey in 2024, lining out for the senior B team. 

“The most memorable game from those years has to be the West Cork Final in 2016. We were Under 16s and we beat Kinsale in Clonakilty. We had years of rivalry with Kinsale at underage level, and it was just a cracker of a game. Being captain made it the best feeling, and we still talk about it in Bantry to this day!”

“The shift from playing for fun to playing with more ambition happened during my teens, right around the time I started playing with the Cork team. It was then I really noticed the step up in the commitment and the drive you need to have. I realised I wanted to be able to hold my own and really compete at that level, and that’s when the focus really changed for me.”

Naturally, it wasn’t always easy. “For me, the biggest challenge moving through the underage ranks was definitely my confidence. Trying to break into the starting team with Cork and often not being chosen to play games sometimes would affect my confidence or impact my performance, but I had to try to block out those thoughts in my head and just suck it up if I wanted to keep going.”

“Eventually, there came a time when I realised I actually could compete at that higher level. I started putting a lot more effort into my training and my overall game and being up against such talented players all the time was so beneficial for me. It really sharpened my play and gave me the belief that I belonged out there on the field with them.”

A typical week of training is a balancing act between the pitch, the gym and professional life. “Normally it’s football training twice a week with a match at the weekend. Then I aim to squeeze in one or two gym sessions or classes in between.”

Alongside the regular training schedule every week, Eve has put a bigger focus on strength work. “Since my early playing days, I’d say I’ve grown a lot stronger and more physical as a player by focusing on the gym as much as the pitch. Strength and conditioning is just as important, especially to avoid injury. 

“I tore my ACL in 2021. The recovery was challenging both physically and mentally,  and it’s a lonely injury to have. But it taught me resilience and gave me the motivation to get my body even stronger for when I returned to play 13 months later.”

“Now I am focusing on fuelling my body right and making sure I’m well rested. I do meal prep every week so I am organised and I try not to overthink things too much, but I do try to visualise plays on the field before every game.”

There are also the logistical demands that make the jump to county level so different from the club scene. The commitment goes beyond solely the intensity on the pitch, and it’s often the scheduling that proves the toughest part to manage. “A big difference I’ve seen with playing county is the various days, times and locations you have to be available for. It isn’t always straightforward trying to juggle work on top of all the travel and matches.”

Outside of big match days, people often also don’t realise the level of dedication it takes to train week in and week out, no matter the weather, often missing out on social plans along the way. “There have been a few important occasions that have had to be sacrificed for the game.”

From a role model perspective, Eve has always looked up to Emma Spillane. “She won two All-Stars at a very young age, and I always admired her dedication, leadership and speed on the field. She has always been a fantastic player, and it was a pleasure playing alongside her as I got older.”

The 2026 season brings a significant shift to the game with the LGFA (Ladies Gaelic Football Association) trialling twelve new rule enhancements during the National League. Designed to increase the pace and reward long-range skill, the most notable changes include the introduction of a two-point scoring arc for kicks from outside 40 metres and a ‘solo and go’ rule, which allows a fouled player to continue play instantly without waiting for a whistle. Other tactical shifts, such as the requirement to keep three players in the opposition half at all times and a new kick-out mark, aim to reduce massed defences and encourage high catching.

“I’m excited for the new rules to be trialled. They could make the game much faster and more appealing for the supporters to watch. There is still an imbalance with media coverage compared to the men’s game, and I think making the game even more dynamic could encourage more people to come out and support us.”

Despite the challenges, she acknowledges how much progress has been made since she first started. “The game has come a long way for women; there’s a much bigger following now and the media coverage is definitely better than it was. Training facilities and coaching have improved so much too, as well as the focus on how important strength and conditioning is for female players.”

Today, Eve is balancing her football with her career as an Intellectual Disability (ID) nurse, currently living and working in Australia. Even though she’s far from West Cork, the game is never far away, thanks to the massive Irish community over there. A typical day for Eve is busy but balanced: “I’ll work during the day and then head to training or the gym afterwards. Then it’s tea and Netflix in the evening to unwind. “Going out for a coffee or heading off for a walk or a swim is essential for me too!”

“Up until now, I’d say playing football and sport in general has taught me that I’m dedicated and disciplined. It’s given me a good head on my shoulders for handling losses and learning from them. I’m very goal-oriented, and I’d love to be able to do a half-marathon at some point, all while continuing to grow in my role as a nurse.”

I’d like to start by wishing you all a healthy and happy 2026. As you reflect on the start of this year, what small change could make the biggest difference to your wellbeing? I hope that wherever you are in your life stage, you can tap into your reserves of inner light to guide you through January. 

In my last article, I wrote about how important daylight is for our mental health. The thing I love about January is that, even if we feel a little flat –or even just flat broke after the Christmas period – the days are beginning to lengthen and our bodies can start to build up their vitamin D stores. As January progresses, we naturally begin to feel energised by the lengthening days, more energetic and up for challenges but early January often calls for more of a gentle reset.

As I’m writing this on Nollaig na mBan, I want to take a moment to acknowledge all the women in our lives who have worked so hard to make Christmas a time of joy and coming together for their families. Who are the women in your life you’d like to acknowledge for their care and support? And it’s not just for Christmas, as they say; our mothers, our sisters, our friends and daughters take on so much care and responsibility that at times life may feel very pressured. We often get swept up in the collective current of Christmas with all the ideas and expectations of the season, so what a joy it is to have January in order to go within, to tune into oneself once more and sense the potential of the new year ahead. What does rest and recalibration look like for you this month? January is the perfect month for it.

You might have gathered that I’m not one for radical New Year’s resolutions, though the health and fitness industry is famous for its ‘New Year, New You’ message. Are your health goals truly your own, or are they shaped by outside expectations? Inherent in this message is a sense of rejection of the old you as being somehow wrong or inadequate. Ironic how we are encouraged to lie about munching on things over Christmas only to be shamed into dieting and exercise in the aftermath! It’s the boom-bust scenario wheeled out every year. From this perspective, January is traditionally the month where we troop off to the gym or embark on extreme diets or exercise regimens with a new broom energy only to fail within a few weeks. What about this year taking the January time to tune into yourself instead and see what it is that really makes you happy and healthy? What about coming off auto-pilot and tailoring your own health and happiness for the new year at your own pace?

Meanwhile, we can be following some very simple health guidelines to help us rebalance after Christmas and gently shed any few pounds we many have acquired. Truly, what we all need is moderation. 

January is a time for gentle self-compassion, allowing yourself to embrace new beginnings without pressure or judgement. Rather than focusing solely on physical health, consider your emotional and mental wellbeing as equally important aspects of renewal. By nurturing kindness towards yourself, you can create space for positive change to flourish naturally throughout the year. Make new habits a commitment of care and love for your wellbeing rather than a punishment.

Here are some simple parameters to consider as you begin your health journey in 2026.

Time

Look at your time allowances… do you have the kind of lifestyle that allows you to be scheduled in your approach and allot regular time for exercise, or is life more unpredictable for you? Exercise should not be yet another demand on our time – this approach will lead to either our own resentment or the resentment of those around us. Good for you if you can head off for a five-hour cycle, but not so good if you’re leaving behind a resentful family! Health should be for all the family. How can you best make time for movement that fits your life and supports those around you?

Choice of Activity

Well, what do you like to do? Are you the sociable type who likes to have a laugh and join in with groups, or do you prefer a more mindful, inner-guided approach? Or is it being outdoors that does it for you, walking or swimming? Do you enjoy the camaraderie of your local gym or fitness class? What activities bring you genuine joy and help you feel healthy? Happiness and gratitude create health.  Whatever it is you love, do as much of it as time and weather (and family) allow.

Sleep and Rest

The holy grail of eight hours remains the same. And the old saying “an hour before midnight is worth two after” remains true. Sleep is essential and remember the hours spent sleeping count towards your fasting time where the body can ‘go offline’ so to speak and carry out its essential maintenance. I want to include quality rest time here too. How often do we just sit in silence and rest in our own presence? This space, unique to each individual, is where our inspiration arises and making this a practice is deeply nourishing for our souls.

Food

Keep it simple… Reduce your sugar intake; Drink more water; Eat more veg and fruit; Chew!; Try to fast for 12 hours using your natural sleep window.Which simple change – less sugar, more water, or more vegetables – feels most achievable for you right now?

Fascia and Fun

Consider gentle stretching, dancing, yoga or Pilates to support your fascia and overall mobility. And don’t forget to make time for fun – what’s one thing you can do this week just for the joy of it? Doing something new or different has been proven to help us feel like we can slow time down, especially important in these busy times.

This January, take a moment to tune into yourself. Choose one small, positive change and commit to it for the next week. Notice how it makes you feel and celebrate your progress – no matter how small. Remember, your journey to health and happiness is unique to you. Why not start today?

Local physio and marathon runner, Darren Kelly

Dunmanway native Darren Kelly is rapidly making his mark on the marathon circuit, clocking a remarkable personal best of 2:50:03 at this year’s Dublin City Marathon. Niamh Coughlan shares how since taking up running seriously in 2023, Darren has already delivered impressive performances on some of the world’s most iconic running courses, including Boston, London, and both Dublin and Cork City Marathons.

“I’ve been a Dunmanway man all my life, really. I was a very active kid – back in those days you kind of had to be,” says Darren. “You were kicked out the door in the morning, and home time was when the street lights came on.” Darren always had a strong interest in field sports, and was very much involved with the Doheny GAA Club from the age of six or seven, later playing soccer with both Dunmanway Town FC and Togher FC.

Working as a physiotherapist at the West Cork Pain Relief Clinic, Darren shares how it was his own sporting injuries that steered him toward his career path. “I had a meniscus tear in my knee and underwent an arthroscopy. I had the same pain before and after the surgery, but I battled on for years playing football. It wasn’t until I started my physiotherapy course and became a patient for one of the older students, starting proper strength training, that the symptoms finally disappeared. I still wonder today if, had I done the strength training before the surgery, I might never have needed it at all.”

He only became interested in running in his early 30s. “When I was still involved in GAA and soccer, I’d enter the odd race here and there, but there was never any real training. I was definitely winging it.”

It wasn’t until 2023, his final year playing GAA, that running truly came to the forefront. “I always had an interest in it to some extent, but GAA and soccer always took priority. The marathon was on the bucket list, but I suppose I never really knew if I’d ever actually complete one.”

Darren’s GAA background proved to be a major advantage, providing the foundation for breaking into running. “Even though I played as a goalkeeper at adult level, I was always fit. Most players hated pre-season because it was all running, but I secretly loved it. I knew I could push myself. My first race was actually a half marathon in Clonakilty about six or seven years ago. It was winter, so there was no football. I went in with no training, thinking I’d be grand but I soon found out. It was a lot of hard work..”

Completing his first marathon in April 2024, Darren had secured a place in the London Marathon through the CUH Charity around six or seven months earlier. He began training in September/October 2023 and went on to clock an impressive 2:57:30 in London, a time that qualified him for this year’s Boston Marathon, where he improved again with a 2:54:30 finish. To date, he has taken on London, Cork, Boston, and Dublin twice, recently achieving a personal best of 2:50:03 in the capital. “You’d think Boston would be the standout marathon and the city is incredible, but for atmosphere alone, London is the winner. The noise as I ran over Tower Bridge that day will stay with me for a very, very long time.”

The structured regime behind marathon training turned out to be far more intense than Darren expected. “When I started running as my number one sport, I thought it was a case of getting a pair of runners and off you go. The amount of work on everything else is crazy.”

In preparation for his most recent marathon, he was training six to seven days a week, mixing slow runs, intervals, tempo sessions, and long runs. “There was a spell where I was averaging 90-100 kilometres per week for about five or six weeks before the taper. I always tell the lads that if I’d trained this hard for football, I’d have been a grand player”.

And the marathons won’t end there. Darren hopes to add several more to his list before eventually hanging up the trainers. “Over the next few years, I’d love to take on a few more of the majors, Chicago, New York, Berlin – but of course, it all depends on staying injury-free”.

Despite being vigilant about prevention of injury, he has had his share of them, particularly lower-limb issues accumulated over years of GAA and soccer. He has dealt with a grade-2 hip flexor strain, a meniscus tear, and multiple ankle sprains. Since taking up running, however, he has been relatively lucky. “I’d only missed one week with injury until recently, when I suffered a stress fracture in my tibia during the Dublin Marathon. I had medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints) leading up to the race, and I knew the risk I was taking before toeing the line. I ended up fracturing it during the race, so at the moment I’m off running while it heals. I’ve replaced my training with strength and conditioning, the bike, and the elliptical, and I’m hoping to return to pool running this week.”

He believes the strength-and-conditioning aspect of running is still widely underestimated. “I’d cut back on my gym time before the injury, and I genuinely think that if I’d kept it up, I might not have picked up this one.”

Darren runs with Doheny Athletics Club and often heads out with a few of its members when he can. David Mawe usually gets the text. Most of the time, though, his training is done solo, as his work hours don’t always line up with the club’s. “I don’t mind that, to be honest. Running is an individual sport, and you have to be self-driven to achieve your goals”.

West Cork is spoiled for choice when it comes to running routes, and one of Darren’s favourites is close to home. Every year, he helps organise the Dunmanway 10km Road Race. “If I didn’t mention that route as my favourite, I’d be in trouble! 

“2026 will be our fourth year hosting the race since the committee came together to bring it back to life, and to date we’ve raised over €30,000 for local charities and amenities. It’s a fantastic course, taking in the town and the beautiful countryside around Dunmanway. There’s a nice challenging hill in the final kilometre, but once you hit the top it’s a fast downhill sprint to the finish. In fairness, the local community comes out in force every year, and that support creates a really special atmosphere on race day.”

As a physiotherapist, Darren’s day starts early, usually around 6:30 or 7am, before he heads to the clinic for a full day’s work. “I typically finish at 5 or 6pm, and then it’s time to train.” He’s grateful to have Dunmanway Swimming Pool nearby, which has become a key part of his routine. “If it’s dry, I’ll park the car there, head out for my run, and then go into the pool for a recovery session afterwards. If the weather is really bad, I’ll use the gym upstairs in the pool. I swear the staff there must be sick of the sight of me!”

Working with others comes naturally to Darren, though he’s still relatively new to sports physiotherapy. Each year he takes on a new 30-hour course in an area which is of interest to him. “I’ve been practicing nearly seven years now, and the research is always evolving. A lot of people who end up in the clinic have taken up running and are simply doing too much too soon. They pick up injuries because their bodies aren’t used to the stress they’re putting themselves under. Someone can go from living a fairly sedentary life to suddenly running three or four 5ks a week. The biggest tip I can give is to build slowly and to respect the easy-pace run.”

Recovery is just as important as training. “I’m very lucky to have the swimming pool locally, so I spend a lot of time there doing injury-prevention work, easy stretching, and mobility exercises after training. I don’t want to knock any recovery method, I think they all have a place, but there are four pillars of recovery that are often overlooked: sleep, hydration, nutrition, and stress management. You can do the best post-training routine ever, but if you’re skipping meals, eating junk food every night, or glued to your phone at 2am, you haven’t really recovered – you’ve just ticked a box. No amount of recovery boots or massage guns can replace these four pillars.”

As a runner and someone who works with runners, there is a mutual understanding just how impatient athletes can be when injured. “It’s all about setting different goals along the way, with the overall aim being a return to your sport. Nobody wants to be stuck doing a rehabilitation program, but that’s just part of life and injuries happen.”

Setting personal challenges is the key to improvement in running. “Unless you’re Jakob Ingebrigtsen, there’s always someone faster than you. Even locally, I know I’m unlikely to win a 10km, 10-mile, or half-marathon race, but I set goals for myself and aim to achieve them in each race. Continually hitting personal targets in anything has its own rewards.”

When he’s not working or training, Darren enjoys spending time with his partner, Amy. “She’s a very patient woman, putting up with all my training.” They often take her dog, Bailey, for walks or go out for dinner. “After that, I’m usually found watching sports, whether it’s GAA, Liverpool, athletics, or Formula 1.”

Although running is a major part of his lifestyle, Darren doesn’t let it overshadow everything. “I try not to talk about running unless someone asks. I know it could take over my whole personality, so I’m conscious around friends, family, and even patients in the clinic to keep it in check. Even doing this interview feels very different for me. I like to stay under the radar, but if it inspires even one person to take up running, it’s worth it.”

Looking ahead, 2026 already has exciting plans on the horizon. “I hope to run the Seville Marathon in February, but my comeback from injury will determine that. After that, I plan to take part in plenty of local runs across Cork over the spring and summer, before hopefully tackling another major marathon in the autumn. It’s shaping up to be another big year on the road.”

A Brazilian native, Daniela’s passion for volleyball began in childhood, playing on her school team as a teenager. “When I moved to Europe, life took me in a different direction, I got married, started a family, and volleyball became just a memory.”

Twenty years later, after her marriage ended, Daniela felt drawn back to the sport she loved. “In 2019, while living in County Waterford, I joined a club in Kilkenny and began playing again with their women’s team. It didn’t take long for that old passion to return. Then Covid arrived, and suddenly I found myself at home with my eight children.”

By 2022, Daniela and her family had settled in West Cork. The club began with a simple dream. She wanted to keep playing the sport she had rediscovered while giving her children the chance to grow as players. “A friend generously sponsored me to take a life coaching course, and during that time I realised what I truly wanted: to become a volleyball coach and bring the sport I love to West Cork. The nearest club was in Cork City, so I decided to create one right here in our community.” 

With support from Volleyball Ireland and the West Cork Development Programme, the club held its first session in July of last year at the playground in Skibbereen “They provided us with a net and a few volleyballs and that was enough to get started. That summer, we played every week, whether at the playground or on the beach.”

Daniela’s vision for the club is to spread the love of volleyball across West Cork and create a vibrant, inclusive community where players of all ages and abilities can develop their skills, confidence, and teamwork. As founder and head coach, she hopes to establish more training centres throughout the region, giving even more children and teens the chance to discover and enjoy the sport. 

“As a mom of many, I’ve learned that children and teens can’t be forced to do something they don’t truly want to do. We, as parents and coaches, can encourage and guide them but real growth only happens when ‘they’ choose to engage.”

For those new to the sport, volleyball is a team game played with six players on each side. Using their hands and arms, players hit the ball over a net, aiming to land it on the opponent’s court to score points. 

“When we started last September, most of our players had never really played volleyball before. Now, just a year later, I see those same players helping me coach new ones. Watching them grow in confidence and passion, and seeing them pass that love for the game on to others is very rewarding.”

“In Ireland, volleyball isn’t as common in schools as sports like Gaelic games or athletics. So when a new player joins and tells me they’ve played before, I know that usually means they’ve only had a little exposure to the sport.”

Training players of all ages several times a week, Daniela always begins with a solid warm-up and stretching routine. “Sometimes our warm-up feels more like a workout and we might use some tools or light weights I keep in the hall, and other times it’s all about agility games. It really depends on what we need to focus on in that session. After warming up, we move on to the basics. Every training includes time for fundamentals, because even professional players keep practising them”. Daniela currently has a group of volunteers getting certified so they can also join the club’s coaching team. 

Fourteen-year-old Bethan Hunt from Dunmanway first heard about the club through a friend. “I first got involved with volleyball when my friend saw that the club was starting and asked me to go with her. I’ve been part of the team for a year now.” Alongside volleyball, Bethan also plays rugby with the U16 Rebelletes.

Already active in league games and tournaments, the U16, U18 and adult teams are gaining valuable experience each week. Before a big match, Bethan says she likes to start her day “with a big breakfast and a good stretch to get ready to play.”

The court is a place for both learning and making mistakes. “Teamwork is so important in training. It’s great to have a team that always encourages and helps each other when we make mistakes. I think my favourite part is all the new friends I’ve made playing volleyball. A lot of people on the team are from different countries, and it’s great to learn new things from them.”

Bethan plays as a setter and says the sport has helped her grow both on and off the court. “I’ve definitely become more confident and talkative since I started playing volleyball. My favourite player is probably Harper Murray and she plays for Nebraska in America.”

Despite all the positives, being based in the countryside comes with its challenges. The biggest being transportation. “Our training hall can be far for some families, and with limited public transport, it’s not always easy for players, especially teens, to travel independently. Most of our players are from Skibbereen, but there’s no direct bus to Dunmanway, which makes it difficult for parents. We also have players from Clonakilty facing similar issues.”

Another challenge for the club is finding available sports halls. With West Cork’s unpredictable weather, access to more suitable indoor facilities would make a huge difference, and this isn’t just a local issue. Even clubs in the city struggle to secure enough hall time.

Despite the challenges, the club continues to grow and move forward. “This year, we’re proudly taking part in the Volleyball Ireland National League, entering two youth teams and a women’s team. I’m sure we’ll face new challenges along the way, but also new opportunities to grow and learn as a club.”

Volleyball Ireland has played a key role in growing the sport nationwide, with new clubs emerging across the country. This year’s National League will see over a thousand players taking part. Building on that momentum, Daniela has recently launched a volleyball programme in primary and secondary schools across West Cork, with over 13 primary schools already signed up to take part.

Clonakilty Community College is the first secondary school to start a girls’ volleyball team through Daniela’s programme. “Hopefully, this will inspire more schools to join in so that one day we’ll see volleyball thriving in every school across West Cork.”

“I see a future where we’ll be hosting school competitions and helping the love for the game spread even further,” Daniela says. As more children discover volleyball, I believe we’ll see new training centres opening and West Cork becoming a real reference point for Irish volleyball. As for our players, I’ll continue to encourage them to keep growing in the game!”

West Cork Volleyball Club welcomes everyone: kids, teens and adults. The club’s U16 and U18 teams train on Thursdays from 5–7pm and Saturdays from 2-4pm. The adult team trains on Tuesday nights from 8-10pm.  For more information, visit westcorkvolleyballclub.com.

We tend to associate pelvic floor issues with post-partum and post-menopausal women for obvious reasons but a recent study carried out by Dublin City University (published in Science and Medicine in Football) on young women involved in camogie and Gaelic football revealed that 37 per cent experienced urinary leakage during training and play. Urinary leakage comes about due to stress incontinence while 47.8pc experience urge incontinence or the urge to pass urine, during training or matches. And genital pain, another consequence of pelvic floor dysfunction was reported by 43.4pc of respondents. What was so surprising about this data was just how prevalent this issue is, with just under half of young female athletes suffering with pelvic floor issues while training and participating in sports. These statistics raise a number of questions. Was the issue always there, but no-one ever thought to ask before? Is it down to the increasing intensity of impact in our sports and our sports training for both young women and young men? Or is it down to increasing stress levels for young athletes, as anxiety and stress can lead to tight and weak pelvic floors. Most likely all of the above are true to some extent. 

What matters however, is not so much why this issue is arising, though it makes for interesting contemplation, but how can we take remedial action so young women do not have to suffer in silence with this issue. Early intervention is essential, as ignoring the issue does not make it go away and it can lead to chronic pelvic floor dysfunction down the line, which has real implications for female health over a woman’s lifespan. Intervention and education can be a literal game-changer for young women who experience pelvic floor dysfunction, empowering them to continue to play and thrive at their sport.

In this short article I want to write about a remedial strategy that can be undertaken immediately if this issue applies to you.

Pelvic Floor Muscle training (PFMT)

This technique has proven to be extremely effective in correcting pelvic floor dysfunction in young women. I appreciate that the following instructions may be a little technical, but for coaches and trainers or even those affected directly by this issue these following techniques work and are worth learning and disseminating.

We always need to start by tuning into our breath.

Building co-ordination with breath

You can sit or lie down and place one hand on your abdomen and one hand on your rib cage (if you are sitting make sure you have your ribs stacked over your hips and you are not slumped).As you inhale, breathe into your hands and think about filling your belly and pelvic floor with air.

Notice your hands descending as you exhale, noticing your rib cage and abdomen deflating, and imagine the pelvic floor deflating and passively lifting upward. Once you become aware of this coordination of the breath and the pelvic floor movement you can start to add in a gentle pelvic floor contraction.

Next begin to add a gentle pelvic floor contraction…as you inhale, feel your rib cage and belly expand and allow that expansion to fill your pelvic bowl and expand your pelvic floor, filling out gently. Now as you exhale feel your belly deflate and your rib cage drop and sense your pelvic floor lifting up internally. Focus on lifting up the muscles of the vagina and anus, this is the sensed experience of engaging the pelvic floor. The practice of consciously co-ordinating the pelvic floor with the breath is vital, as many of us have a breathing pattern that is out of sync with our pelvic floor (and diaphragm) movement and this helps to reset and relax us into a natural, healthy rhythm. Remember tension and stress can have an adverse effect on the adequate functioning of the pelvic floor so learning to breathe consciously here is of healing benefit.

Building endurance 

Once you have a handle on the first practice you want to build in some endurance and strength exercises. These can help build the pelvic floor’s ability to maintain continence and support the pelvic organs, while also enhancing the mind-muscle connection.

These contractions take about two to three minutes to do. And for the coaches of teams or for the individual themselves you can add them to a warm-up, or do them on your own whenever you have a few minutes to practice.

To do an endurance contraction, sit or lie down and draw the pelvic floor in and up, you should feel a contraction or tightening in the pelvic floor and a bit of tightening in the lower abdomen which is the co-contraction of the transversus abdominus.

Stay as relaxed as possible, not holding the breath, tensing the shoulders or squeezing the buttock muscles and hold the pelvic floor contraction for six to eight seconds. Then relax. If this is too hard to maintain then try contracting the pelvic floor muscles a little more lightly. The important thing is to build up endurance and hold the felt sensation of the contraction for the length of time required. You should aim for eight to 12 repetitions and do two to three sets. Practice this two to three times a week.

Building strength 

Once you get the hang of the endurance contractions you should have a real awareness of how to engage your pelvic floor with correct breathing pattern and can start to add it to your existing exercise routine. I would pick one exercise. For example, say you have a conditioning programme in the gym and you want to add pelvic floor training as a component to your weights session. Choose one exercise where you can practice pelvic floor contractions. Make sure the exercise is not too forceful or complex, a simple movement is best, such as an overhead press. What you would do here is consciously exhale and contract the pelvic floor simultaneously for the duration of the exertion, as you press the weight up (the hardest part of the exercise). Consciously inhale and lower the pelvic floor as you inhale to return the weight to the start. Repeat for one set of 10 or 12 repetitions.

Pick just one exercise in your programme to work your pelvic floor; you don’t want to overly fatigue the muscle, as this will be counterproductive. You can of course vary which exercise you pick from session to session, which will be good for overall training results. Varying the exercises and the load placed on the pelvic floor will help carry the strength over into functional movements on the field or in competition as well as in daily life.

When Austrian native Monika Power first arrived in Ireland as a 20-year-old au pair in 1995, she could never have imagined that the cold Atlantic waters off West Cork would one day play such an important part in her life. “I remember dipping my toe in for the first time,” she shares with Mary O’Brien. “The pain was quite intense. I had spent a lot of time in lakes back in Austria but back then swimming in the sea just wasn’t for me.”

It wasn’t until 2008 after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that Monika realised her body had become intolerant to hot and cold temperatures.

While Glengarriff is now home, it wasn’t the sea or the landscape that first captured the young au-pair’s heart so many years ago but rather a local lad with the gift of the gab by the name of Dave Power. After giving Monika and her brother a lift when they were hitchhiking around Ireland, a long-distance relationship ensued, kept alive by letters for two years.

Nearly 30 years later, the happily married couple have two children, and Monika, 51, has become well-known down west for her role in encouraging nervous swimmers, young and old, into the cold water.

In 2012, she joined The Water School in Ballylickey, where she began training as a swim teacher and water safety instructor and discovered a lifelong passion. “I didn’t even have a proper swimming costume when I started,” she admits, “But I knew immediately that this was exactly what I wanted to do.” 

Since then many people have learned to swim with confidence under her calm and encouraging instruction, oftentimes starting off in the warmth of the pool at the Maritime Hotel in Bantry before moving on to the shifting currents of Bantry Bay and Glengarriff Harbour.

Over time Monika leaned naturally towards providing individual instruction, as she finds teaching groups challenging. She prefers to engage with each swimmer’s unique needs, after realising that both children and adults, at some stage during their swimming journey, benefit from personalised coaching. “Water gives both children and adults the freedom to move with ease, especially when struggling physically due to injuries or a neurodiversity,” she explains.

It was during the pandemic, like so many in West Cork, that she finally found herself drawn to the sea. “My sister-in-law lent me a wetsuit and off I went,” she says. After struggling so long with the cold, she realised how energising and revitalising swimming in the sea can be and “was hooked”.

Seeing an opportunity to combine her teaching experience with this newfound passion, Monika completed an open water coaching qualification with Olympic open water swimmer Keri Anne Payne, travelling to Belfast between lockdowns for the practical sessions. After sharing her newly-acquired skills with her local community, in 2022, she made the leap to start up her own swim coaching business and ‘Coast Swimmer’ was born.

Monica’s approach to coaching is slow and steady. “Open water swimming is a double-edged sword,” she explains. “The benefits are incredible – that pure joy and invigoration – but it must be done safely.

She stresses how important it is that sea swimmers familiarise themselves with changing conditions like rip currents, weather and temperature before entering the water and that they take the time to acclimatise to the cold. “Try to go regularly but choose a safe area and a routine that suits your lifestyle and is easy to manage,” she advises.

The swim teacher keeps her swim groups small in order to give her full attention to individuals. “Safety comes first and confidence matters,” she says.

She also helps out with Water Safety Ireland classes during the summer, teaching vital life-saving skills to young people during the swim weeks. “That’s a big part of what I love about what I do,” she says. “Seeing the next generation, not just enjoying the water, but passing on knowledge on how to stay safe in the water and going on to become instructors themselves.”

Two of her students, Amy (70) and Mary (62), learned to swim later in life and now swim all year-long to stay fit.

“I had just retired from a busy job and was a full-time carer when I started swimming with Monika,” shares Amy. “I remember looking across to Ellen’s Rock and seeing a buoy, maybe ten strokes away, in the water. I thought I’d love to be able to swim that far.” After six weeks Amy swam to the buoy and can now swim 1K with ease. 

“At the start swimming was just an outlet, something to give me focus, providing the opportunity to meet people. Now I see my fitness improving year on year and I have a newfound confidence as a result.”

She continues to swim weekly with Monica, who she says is “an amazing teacher with infinite patience”.

Another student, 13-year-old Amelia, completed a 3K swim over the summer, raising €2,800 for Bantry Inshore Search and Rescue.

“Monica is a brilliant instructor and under her instruction Amelia gained the extra confidence she needed to go into the open water,” shares Amelia’s dad Eoghan Quish “Swimming 3K was an amazing achievement for someone so young and Amelia is aiming for the 5K next year.”

Four years ago Helen learned how to do the front crawl under Monika’s guidance and this year swam her first 5K in open water, as well as bringing home a medal from the Vibes and Scribes Lee Swim last July.

“Swimming has become my happy place,” she says “and I am grateful to Monika for her support on my journey.”

For Monika, every session is special. “It’s a heartwarming experience” she says. “When someone who was afraid finally takes off without fear, or when clients get back to me with happy swimming stories after joining their friends – that’s what keeps me going.” 

She recalls one woman who had always swum head up doing the breast stroke, too afraid to look beneath the surface. She was terrified, but she trusted me. The moment she looked down, she saw the beauty underneath – the light, the seaweed, the fish. I couldn’t get her out of the water after that!”

Diving her time between the open water and pool, Monika teaches all levels and abilities. She offers four different levels in the sea during the summer, catering for beginners to more experienced sea swimmers training for local swim events or triathlons around the country. 

Her next project, she says, will focus on parents and toddlers in the pool, but with more emphasis on the parents. “When parents are confident in the water with their little ones these children will benefit in their future swim journey!” she explains.  

Looking back, the swim teacher is modest about how many people she’s helped – she’s lost count – but her impact in Glengarriff and beyond is easy to see. Over the past three years, Monika has guided countless swimmers into the sea, from beginners staying close to shore to more experienced ones taking on challenges of up to 5k.

If you would like more information you can text Monika on 087-2396284.

Sixteen-year-old Noah Cunnane is a dedicated member of Muskerry Athletics Club, an organisation that is going from strength to strength, marking an impressive start to 2025 with a standout performance at the opening Cross Country meet in Riverstick in September last. Competing against strong opposition from Bandon, Skibbereen, Courseys, Dohneys, Durrus, Riverstick Kinsale, and Bantry, the club proudly secured the coveted West Cork Club Shield. Just two days later, the club hosted more than 850 primary school children at its Ummera training grounds for an exciting schools’ event. Niamh Coughlan chats to rising star Noah about his breakthrough moments this year.

A native of Carrigadrohid, a village in the parish of Aghinagh, Noah is the eldest of three. His younger brother and sister are also proud members of West Muskerry AC, a club that is now building on the success of forty-six athletes who qualified for All-Ireland A in 2024 and three consecutive Best All-Ireland B Club titles. Muskerry AC is now preparing to host the Even Age, Junior, and Senior County Championships this autumn.

Noah is appreciative of the character of his home village Carrigadrohid, with its historic castle, GAA grounds, and village shop. He attended Canovee National School, and is now in transition year at De la Salle Boys school in Macroom.

“Growing up, I was involved in football with Canovee, soccer with Coachford, and athletics with West Muskerry AC. If I wasn’t doing athletics, I would be playing soccer. These days, I focus solely on athletics, as I train a lot during the week with the club. I first discovered the sport through a friend who was going to train. I decided to give it a try, and I’ve been going ever since that night.”

One of Noah’s earliest memories of athletics is running through the grounds in Ummera at night with a torch on his head. “It was such a fun experience and really sparked my love for the sport. I have also tried other sports like long jump, javelin and shot put, which I even won a few medals in.”

Noah trains six nights a week. “Monday and Wednesday are my club training days, while on Tuesday and Thursday, I usually do a 10km run. Friday is my rest day, and then on Saturday we meet for an endurance training session. Sunday is always my long run, which is normally around 16km.” 

Speed, technique and distance vary between track and field. “I prefer cross country because of the longer distances and the changing terrain, more hills, more fun. Track is mainly for my summer training, while road races are something I do in the off-season when I’m taking a break from cross country. One of our regular sessions is on rolling hills. The loop starts with a steep climb, then continues with a gradual incline before finishing off with a tough double hill. In total, it’s about 800 metres, and we might repeat it six or seven times in a session. It’s a great workout, but definitely one of the toughest on the agenda.”

Around Cork, one of his favourite places to run is the Marina. Its newly renovated paths have made it a real hotspot in the city. “With the club, we’ve also run in Millstreet Country Park, which I really enjoy too. On the track, I think the 1500m or 3000m would be my favourite events. They fall between middle and long distances, and I like how tactical they can be, which makes them exciting to run.”

Being in fourth year means no major exams are lingering, but it’s still a challenge to find balance in daily life. “It can be hard to fit everything in, but I try to prioritise my running while still making time for the occasional night out and keeping up with schoolwork. A good few of my friends are also part of West Muskerry, so training doubles as a chance to socialise, which makes it all the more enjoyable.”

On the tougher days, what stands out about Noah is his determination. He draws on his overall fitness and keeps himself motivated by thinking about how others are progressing and reminding himself that he has to keep up. Watching athletics also gives him that extra push to stay focused and driven.

Noah has a few role models in athletics, but one in particular stands out – fellow West Cork man, Darragh McElhinney. “He’s a huge inspiration to me. I still remember the first time I saw him run at the National All-Ireland Championship in Donegal. It was an amazing race and left a lasting impression on me.”

When it comes to pre-race routines, Noah likes to keep things simple. “On race days, I usually wake up early and start with a shower. Breakfast is always pretty basic, as I don’t like to eat too much before competing. I make sure my bag is ready with everything I’ll need, especially my spikes and a spare pair of socks, since cross country can get very muddy. If I feel nervous before a race, I’ll put on some music to distract myself, which really helps. I usually do a slow jog before the warm-up and then run through my race plan in my head so I’m mentally prepared. I don’t tend to get too nervous before races, but having that routine keeps me focused.”

Last year, Noah qualified for the National Cross Country Championships, which is among his proudest athletics moments to date. As part of this success, he got a West Muskerry Athletics club top recognition for his performance. His goal this season is to make the Cork Cross Country Team for the Nationals. “Looking ahead, and in the next five years, I’d love to still be running and to be part of my college or university athletics team.”

At only sixteen, he’s been fortunate to avoid any major injuries. “I did have some Achilles pain, but with the physio’s tips and exercises, I was able to manage it while things settled. It was tough not being able to train fully with everyone else and having to stick to slow runs or cross-training, but thankfully it’s all healed now and it’s been a while since I’ve had any issues. I just need a good warm-up before any running. I also use an inhaler, and learning how to manage it properly before races took some time, but I’ve got it right now and it’s made a real difference.”

The Diamond League is Noah’s dream race to compete in. Recognised as one of the most prestigious athletics series in the world, it brings together the top track and field athletes to compete across a circuit of elite meetings hosted in major cities around the globe.

When he’s not on the track or competing, Noah enjoys spending time with friends or simply having a lazy day at home where he has a chance to rest, recharge, and prepare for another week of chasing his goals.

A central figure on the Cork Senior Ladies Football team, Laura O’Mahony’s sporting journey is rooted in her hometown of Skibbereen. Her passion for Gaelic football began in her back garden and, since 2010, Laura has played with her club O’Donovan Rossa. When she’s not on the field, Laura works as a secondary school teacher in Kinsale Community School. She chats to Niamh Coughlan about some of the highlights and challenges of playing football at club and county level.

Laura grew up in Skibbereen and, through school, attended the local Cúl Camps where she discovered her love for Gaelic football. “My earliest memory of playing football goes back to an U12 match with O’Donovan Rossa against Bantry Blues in Bantry. We actually have a picture from that day framed at home. When our club formed an LGFA team in 2010, I joined straight away.”

After the amalgamation of Skibbereen’s three secondary schools, she continued her studies at Skibbereen Community School, all while balancing her commitments to O’Donovan Rossa and the Cork underage teams. Alongside football, she also played some basketball when in Mercy Heights.

Representing Cork has always been one of Laura’s greatest aspirations. “From a young age, I dreamed of playing and competing at the highest level, inspired by the strong legacy of Cork Ladies Football and the remarkable players who enjoyed that historic era of success. Being from Cork makes me extremely proud, and every time I wear the jersey, it’s about more than just representing myself. I’m representing my family, my club, the young girls playing football across our county, and the exceptional players that played before me.”

Cork’s 2025 senior campaign began with high hopes in the TG4 All-Ireland Senior Championship. Drawn in a challenging Group 2 alongside reigning Munster champions Kerry and Mayo, Cork faced tough opposition from the start.

 Although they began strong in the group stage kick-off against Kerry in June of this year, Cork conceded in the second half, succumbing to a 5-7 to 2-9 defeat to the Kingdom. Following that setback, Cork were under pressure to maintain their place in the Championship. In their quarter-final tie, they faced Dublin and suffered a comprehensive 3-15 to 0-7 defeat, bringing their 2025 championship run to an end. 

“Both this year and last year brought some tough defeats for the team, but like every season, those setbacks became the starting point for what comes next. I’ve always believed you learn more from your defeats than your wins, and that has certainly been true for us. Last year’s loss to Galway, for example, fuelled our drive to earn promotion back to Division 1 at the start of this season. In the same way, I’ve no doubt that our loss to Dublin in this year’s championship will be carefully analysed and used as motivation to build towards an even stronger campaign next year.”

One of the biggest challenges Laura has faced in the sport is the sheer demand of long seasons. For the past number of years, she has been fortunate to enjoy great success with O’Donovan Rossa, but with that comes almost year-round football. “I’d often go from playing with my club right up until December, to starting back into intercounty training at the end of the same month. It can definitely make it difficult to schedule holidays or real downtime, but honestly, I wouldn’t change the last few years for anything.”

Growing up, Laura’s greatest influence has always been her family. “From the early Saturday mornings spent driving me up and down to Cork, to the constant feedback, support, and motivation, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.” She also acknowledges her first club coach, Michael McCarthy, whose encouragement and positivity helped her develop a love for the game from a young age. Beyond home and club, Laura looked up to Cork greats such as Briege Corkery and Valerie Mulcahy who are fantastic role models and athletes. 

Since stepping up to senior football, the biggest challenge for the Skibbereen native has been adapting to the physicality of the game. “The strength and power required in tackles, along with the speed and intensity at which the game is played, demanded the biggest adjustment. Getting used to that tempo was the toughest part of making the transition for me.”

Between club and county games, training requires a balanced approach to optimise performance, while incorporating rest and recovery, and to avoid injury. “A typical training schedule usually includes three pitch sessions and around two gym sessions each week. Of course, this can vary depending on matches. For instance, during the current club championship, our routine shifts to two midweek training sessions with games at the weekend.”

Back in 2020, Laura suffered a knee injury that kept her sidelined for nearly 11 months. “Thankfully, I am very lucky to say that I have usually only had very small niggles that have required a short time to get right. Luckily, with the help of fantastic physios and rehab specialists, and a brilliant support system around me, it wasn’t long until I was back on the pitch again!”

Playing at the highest level requires more than just physical preparation, mental focus plays a huge role too. For Laura, having a sense of control is key. “I definitely think controlling the controllables helps me in my preparation ahead of big games. Whether it’s making sure I have proper nutrition and hydration, or getting enough sleep, those things cater for the physical side. On the other hand, I try not to think too much about the game until a day or two beforehand, which helps ease any nerves. I also find that using visualisation techniques really benefits me.”

Fitness is a central part of her everyday lifestyle, and she is always looking to improve, even in the smallest details. “Looking back at last year’s intercounty championship, I wasn’t entirely happy with my finishing and composure in front of goal, so that became an area I aimed to improve on throughout both club and intercounty this season.”

Like any sport, there have been ups and downs both in club and county. |I’ve been very fortunate to experience success both in a Skibb and a Cork jersey. However, my favourite moment so far has to be winning the Junior All-Ireland Final with my club back in December 2023. If I could bottle that feeling when the final whistle blew, with all our friends and family rushing onto the pitch to celebrate what we had just achieved, I definitely would.”

On the other hand, one of the toughest defeats came while playing with the home side. Losing to a strong Annaghdown team in the All-Ireland Intermediate semi-final last season was a difficult moment to process for her. However, like any loss, the team has used it as motivation to bounce back and compete at the senior grade this year.

Creating a positive dressing room environment before a game may seem like a small gesture, but it has a big impact for the girls. “It’s a space we use to meet and bond both before and after training, and arriving early gives us time to chat beforehand. On match days, however, the dressing room is definitely more focused, as everyone prepares for the game ahead. Usually, we have a speaker playing, with our shared playlist. At this time, the girls might go for a walk, or do stretching and activation exercises specific to their own routines. Overall, it’s a place where we’ve grown closer together as a group and feels like a safe space.”

The conversation around women’s representation in sport continues to grow year on year, with brands like Lidl and others shining a spotlight on women in the GAA through their campaigns and advertisements. “It’s fantastic to see that the profile of ladies’ football in Ireland has been, and is, growing every year, with more media coverage, larger attendances, and greater visibility and support for female athletes. As a result, the younger generation of players now have accessible role models to inspire them.”

To keep building on this momentum, the more double-headers and prime fixture slots, along with greater promotion at grassroots level, would make a huge difference. She greatly appreciates the progress and growing support already in place, but feels that consistently showcasing the game on bigger stages, by playing in the large stadiums around the country, will be key to closing the gap and further raising the profile of Ladies Football.

From one footballer to another, Laura’s advice to young girls is simple: stay committed. “Being committed through practicing your skills every day, being committed to going to training religiously even when you might not feel like it. Lastly, being committed through hard work on the pitch and simply enjoying your football when playing will take you a long way!”

Like many, balancing work, hobbies and professional life can be challenging. Laura works as a secondary school teacher in Kinsale Community School, where she teaches Maths and P.E.

“Since I’ve been representing Cork from a young age, travelling up for training on school evenings and weekends, I’ve grown very used to managing the balance. The key for me is good time management and being organised, knowing what’s a priority and what needs to be done before heading to training or to work. At the same time, it’s vital to make space for myself outside of work and football, to enjoy life and have some proper downtime.”

Away from football, Laura enjoys keeping things simple. She usually relaxes at home in front of the TV with her family, and spending quality time with both family and friends is what helps her unwind. It gives her the chance to reset, switch off from everything, and avoid burnout.

Looking ahead, one of Laura’s main goals for the next few years is for O’Donovan Rossa to be consistently competitive at senior level. She describes the recent successes with her club as both fantastic and a privilege, creating a special bond between the players and management that she feels is truly unique.

A student at Dublin City University (DCU), Conor is originally from Glanville, a small village north of Cork city. At DCU, he vaulted a new personal best and university record of 4.45 m during the 2025 Irish Universities Athletics Association (IUAA) Championships. A member of Leevale Athletics Club in Cork City since the age of nine, growing up, Conor explored a wide range of disciplines in athletics before discovering his natural aptitude for pole vaulting at the age of 13. “I was always a really energetic kid, so I naturally gravitated toward sports. I tried everything growing up. Gymnastics was actually my main sport from the age of five. I competed with Douglas Gymnastics Club and won All-Ireland titles at juvenile level.”

After turning 13, the young athlete decided to step away from gymnastics to focus more on athletics. “I’d already been running with Leevale AC since I was nine, trying every event under the sun before discovering pole vault at 13. Along the way, I also dabbled in swimming, GAA, and soccer, but athletics and gymnastics were always my favourites.”

Conor is currently in his second year at Dublin City University, where he is pursuing a BSc in Bioprocessing on a sports scholarship.

“One of my earliest memories of athletics was watching the Cork City Sports International for my ninth birthday.,” he shares. “Even though I was heavily involved in gymnastics at the time, I’d always loved to run. My parents brought me out to the track to experience professional athletics up close, and I was instantly hooked. Just two months later, I joined Leevale AC – and I’ve never looked back since.”

Conor began his athletics journey as a hurdler, and in his first year of secondary school, he won the Minor All-Ireland Schools title – breaking the Irish Schools record for his age group in the process. “My hurdles coach, John Naughton, was incredibly knowledgeable and knew I had a background in gymnastics, which is a key component of pole vault, along with speed, something I already had from hurdling. He suggested I give the pole vault a try. I was a bit hesitant at first, but I quickly fell in love with it.”

With the guidance of his pole vault coach, Derrick Neff, the event soon became his main focus. In 2019, Conor won both the hurdles and pole vault at the All-Ireland Schools Championships, breaking the Irish Schools record in pole vault. Just weeks later, he earned his first Irish cap, representing his country in pole vault at the Schools International Athletic Board (SIAB) International. “That season was a turning point and I realised I had real potential in the event.”

The technical demands of pole vault don’t come without their challenges. “There are definitely many difficult aspects to the sport. The technique is very complex. It takes years to refine and even then, you’re always working on something.” For Conor, the biggest challenge has been the mental pressure.

“My technique is quite strong at this stage, but there are days when the hardest part is getting my mind to let me jump. It can be scary. I’ve been in great physical shape before, but mentally things just wouldn’t click and on those days, nothing seems to work. It’s really frustrating. I’ve faced a number of mental blocks over the years, even to the point where I had to step away from vaulting for a while. But I’ve learned that you just have to keep showing up, stay patient, and eventually, things will fall into place.”

For those who are unfamiliar with the sport, pole vault is a highly technical and physically demanding event that combines speed, strength, and precision. It involves a sprint while carrying a flexible pole, typically around 4.50 metres long, which the athlete plants into a box on the ground to launch themselves vertically and clear a horizontal bar set several metres above.

To prepare for a vault run, Conor focuses on keeping his mind calm and clear. “Before I jump, I take deep breaths to settle myself. I empty my mind completely. I try my best not to focus on the bar itself. Instead, I concentrate on the technical cues my coach, Jim Alexander, gives me. Those are the things I need to perfect in order to jump higher. I work on clearing my mind of any negative thoughts so I can approach each vault with a sense of freedom and confidence. If I overthink it, that’s when things go wrong, so I keep it simple and trust myself and the pole to do the work. I also include regular meditation sessions throughout the week, which really helps me stay mentally steady and focused.”

For Conor, the groundwork and preparation for the season ahead is laid down during the winter season. “Winter isn’t really about vaulting for me, it’s the time to focus on building speed, endurance, strength in the gym, and gymnastics skills. It’s all about getting my body into the best possible shape. At the same time, I also work on refining key technical elements. Without solid technique, it’s incredibly difficult to jump high, no matter how strong or fast you are.”

Conor’s proudest moment to date came just two weeks ago when he was named to the Irish squad for the European Team Championships in Maribor, Slovenia, which took place last week. “It’s my first senior international team, so it really means a lot to me. It felt amazing to finally be recognised and rewarded for all the hard work I’ve put in over the past few years.”

Another standout achievement in his career was becoming the youngest ever winner of a National Senior Championship in athletics at just 16-years-old. “That was such a big moment for me. I genuinely wasn’t expecting to win, especially as the youngest in the event. I was completely overwhelmed, and it meant so much.”

As a student living in Dublin, Conor leads a busy but balanced life. “My course has a pretty heavy workload, which isn’t ideal as a scholarship athlete, but I do my best to manage it all. Most mornings I’m in lectures, then I train in the evenings and try to squeeze in some time at the library. It can be hard to find time for everything, especially now that I’m living away from home and have more responsibilities, but I’m heading into third year now, so I’ve gotten used to the routine’. 

“This year, I feel like I’ve found a really good balance across all areas of my life. Even though I’m busy with training and studying, I always make time for my boyfriend, friends, and family. When I’m not on the track or in the library, I’m usually out and about doing something. I love going on nights out with my friends, as long as it’s not before a big session. I don’t want to miss out on making memories just because I’m a scholarship athlete. Balance is essential and without it, this lifestyle just isn’t sustainable.”

The weekly training routine is a mix of track and gym work, depending on the demands of each season. As competition season approaches, the pole vault sessions increase so that he is in tip-top shape. College evenings are spent with friends. This summer, Conor is also working part-time as a catering assistant at Dublin Zoo while continuing to focus on his training for the summer athletics season.

It hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Conor. He’s faced his share of mental and physical setbacks, including moments where he would “blank” just before a jump. “I’ve had a lot of mental blocks where my brain just wouldn’t let me jump. It was frustrating, but I kept showing up, and eventually things started to fall into place.”

He has had to learn some lessons from a young age but which have benefitted him in many ways. “It can be really tough at times, but I’ve learned not to let the highs get too high or the lows drag me too low. There were moments when things just weren’t clicking and I genuinely considered quitting but I chose to persevere and keep going. I’ve realised how important it is to celebrate the small wins along the way. Sometimes I’m too hard on myself; I work so hard, and I don’t always take the time to acknowledge the little milestones. But those moments matter just as much.”

Physically, he also dealt with challenges and last year, he tore a muscle in his chest that sidelined him for several months. “It was annoying, but I focused on rehab and got back to full fitness this year. In a way, it gave me a chance to take a break from athletics and do something different. I travelled a lot during that time, which is something I wouldn’t normally get the opportunity to do during a busy competition season.”

Having the right coach is also a crucial part of an athlete’s success; they’re the ones who spend the most time with you during performance and preparation. “My coach, Jim, places a strong emphasis on the technical aspects of pole vault, which is so important for long-term progress. His approach has taught me to be patient and consistent. Sometimes progress feels slow, but then out of nowhere, you’ll make a breakthrough.” Conor’s advice to young athletes would be to train your mind as well as you train your body. “And don’t be afraid to try every event—you never know which one you’re really suited to until you try.”

Swedish-American pole vaulter, Armand Duplantis, is a role model to Conor. “He’s the world record holder in pole vault and just on another level. I really admire him for how much exposure he’s brought to the event. I love watching him jump; his technique and consistency are incredible. I actually got the chance to see him break the world record in person at the Paris Olympics last year. It was such an amazing experience and definitely something I’ll never forget.”

Looking ahead, competing at the Olympic Games is firmly on Conor’s radar. “I’d love to compete in the Olympics. It’s been my dream since I was a kid. It’s a big goal, but I’m going to give it everything I have to make it happen.`’ When it comes to dream venues, two stand out. “The London Stadium, where the 2012 Olympics were held, would be incredible – the atmosphere there is insane. And the Monaco stadium, where the Diamond League takes place, just looks so cool. I’d love the chance to compete there one day.”

There are also clear ambitions for his professional career. Conor hopes to progress further in the biopharma industry after graduating from university. “Working in pharma while competing around the world would be just unbelievable.”