Electric Ireland, proud sponsor of the Electric Ireland GAA Minor Championships, on Tuesday released Episode 17 of the ‘GAA Minor Moments’ podcast, featuring Donegal GAA legend Michael Murphy. Recognised as one of the county’s most decorated players, Murphy earned one All–Ireland medal, five Ulster titles, and three All–Star awards during his playing career. Making his Senior debut at the age of 18, he would go on to captain Donegal for many years across the course of his 15 season long intercounty career. He also won an Ulster title as a member of the county Minor team in 2006 and one Sigerson Cup medal from his time in Dublin City University.
In this episode, Michael speaks openly about the tactics involved in the Donegal All–Ireland victory of 2012, and how that victory impacted the game nationwide. Murphy says the “imitation of the All–Ireland winners can become very common across the country” and compares this to the ongoing evolution of tactics in hurling to mimic current champions Limerick. The strengthening of defensive structures and counter attacking in football since 2012 is something that may have come from this breakthrough victory, according to Murphy.
Michael briefly touches on the nature of bringing tactics from the training ground to match day. Specifically in relation to the All–Ireland final in 2012, he recalls spending hours in training camps practising the long diagonal ball ahead of their last match. Seeing this manoeuvre come to life in the game, exactly as they had practised, Murphy describes as “almost eerie to see.”
The Glenswilly man also talks about his time on the International Rules circuit. He commends the sport for its emphasis on the skills of Gaelic football and the riskier style of play. Michael comments that there has been a “huge shift [in football] towards the gym culture and running up and down the pitch as quick as you can”, rather than focusing on core skills of the game. He explains how he still follows the AFL, and is a regular viewer every weekend.
Murphy remembers his time as a Minor with Donegal as a wake–up call of sorts. He recalls the exhilarating highs of beating Tyrone in an Ulster semi–final in Clones, and meeting a frightening Kerry team who “were like men playing Minor”. When asked if he had any advice for current Minor players, he said simply to “enjoy every moment”.
Electric Ireland’s ‘GAA Minor Moments’ Podcast will air every Tuesday as well–known Irish stars share memories from their early sporting careers, reflecting on the defining moments from playing Minor and how it shaped them, both on and off the pitch.
The podcast will run for ten weeks over the course of the Electric Ireland Camogie and GAA Minor Championships, featuring a new guest each week from a star–studded line up. This will include John McNamara, Niall Breslin and more as they reflect on their time spent playing Minor and shed light on some great personal stories.
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