PAY THE ONLY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SOCCER PROS AND GAELIC STARS
25 September 1996
By JOHN MELVIN
The only difference between modern day Gaelic footballers and top professional soccer players, is that the soccer stars get paid, according to a top team medic.Dr. Frank Davey, who has charge of the Mayo squad for Sunday's All-Ireland replay, has spoken about the demands on players, whose fitness levels are on a par with any professional soccer players.
"The only difference between both codes is that the Gaelic player has to hold down a day jobÓ, said Dr Davey.
The Charlestown based GP said it took huge commitment from players and a great pride in their county to put in the effort that the Mayo players have put in this year.
Dr. Davey said: "It seems, the reward in representing their county far outweighs any monetary gain." Dr Davey said the change in the professional approach to Gaelic football in the last decade has seen a huge increase in fitness levels while dietary consideration was now a significant factor in getting the best out of a team.
Players had to make huge sacrifices in their social and personal lives. Alcohol and nicotine had to be ruled out entirely as they diminished a player performance levels while a healthy 7-8 hours sleep was essential for team members to perform at the highest level.
"Many sacrifices have to be made both in their social and personal lives. Once the championship season commences, the social life is greatly limitedÓ, he said.
Dr. Davey added: "Late night partying, discos etc are completely out. "Alcohol consumption is prohibited, it can side track the mental and physical preparation and greatly diminish playing ability, likewise nicotine consumption is bannedÓ.
Dr Davey added: "A balanced diet of vegetables, pasta, fruit, chicken, more fruit and more chicken is mandatory. Anyone feeling under the weather is frequently and thoroughly checked and if there is a problem there, such as anaemia, it will be rapidly correctedÓ.
Dr Davey said the greatest difficult players had to face was that of travelling long distances for training. "Some face up to a 200 mile round trip to get to training and return in time to get a good night's sleepÓ, he said.
The team had been fortunate this year to stay injury-free. "We have been lucky in avoiding serious injuries, particularly muscle tears and joint injuries, Kevin Beirne being the exceptionÓ, he said.
He added that while many injuries can be accidental and can not be prevented, many can be avoided by adequately caring for the boys by properly warming up and stretching before a training session and especially on match day.
Connaught Telegraph - News - September 1996
Connaught Telegraph - Sport - September 1996
