The GAA Social Folgen

Winning an All-Ireland club with Lavey, captain of all his school teams, Sigerson leader at Maynooth and at one stage the only Priest, playing Gaelic Football. Times have changed, but at 40 "Fr Frank" decided the priesthood wasn't for him anymore. A big call, He now works for mental health charity ALPS, connecting with young people is his thing. Dromantine retreat outside Newry was the spot where Frank connected with young people, perhaps first, leaving a lasting impression. He spent most of his ministry in Africa, with some of the world’s poorest people. But, with guitar in hand and singing his favourite Christy Moore songs, Africa became home. Malaria almost killed him, more than once- but he kept going back. Life has moved in a different direction. Frank now has two daughters. Carina is six, Laoise is 11. Laoise has Down syndrome and brings "absolute joy to my life and everyone around her" This is his story, a nomadic existence and still making a difference.

A wonderful weekend of Gaelic football, hurling and now we're ready for the draw on...Tuesday?

When Tommy Walsh burst onto the Kerry scene, he was the talk of the country. A similar trajectory to the David Clifford journey in those early days. Talented, physically developed and a year after playing in an All-Ireland minor final, he was with the seniors and Kerry won Sam Maguire. In 2008 there was an All-Ireland final against Tyrone "The Twin Towers of Donaghy & Walsh." The Kerins O'Rahilly's clubman, left Ireland for a career in the AFL. First with St Kilda, then Sydney Swans. Walsh returned in 2015 and finished with three Munster titles, two All-Ireland's and lifted Sam Maguire with his brother Barry-John. Tommy's father Seán Walsh is the holder of seven All-Ireland medals. It's in the blood. Life after football has generally been good. He still resembles the big Russian out of the film Rocky IV “I get that a bit.” He's married to Dawn, they’ve a beautiful young daughter but in September 2025 their lives were hit hard. Tommy and Dawn lost twin boys and it's been a tough journey since. Blessed with good families and friends, Tommy is moving forward and comes across spectacularly well in this podcast. Coaching might be down the line, but for now it's enjoying life as best he can and reflecting on a successful career. Sport transported him to Australia, but "My mind was always in Kerry" The magnificent Tommy Walsh on the GAA Social