"I'm hoping that all our preparations go according to plan. I'm hoping that everybody who is involved will give it their all and have the right attitude when it comes to competing and winning. Time will tell what role I will play in the team. I know there is a lot of work to be done. If I'm good enough to make the team, I'll make it, if not I'll be behind the guys that do 100 per cent."

While he is looking forward to making his return to county hurling, Ollie says he greatly enjoyed his sabbatical as the punishing training schedule associated with inter-county hurling can make it hard to find time for a personal life.

"Sometimes it can be difficult to find a balance but generally it's OK. Having the year off the county panel last year was a major change because I led my life like a normal person! I went away for weekends, went on holidays during the summer, if I was at a social event, I could relax and have a drink, simple things that other people would take for granted."

In his spare time, Ollie works with Ballinasloe-based company Western Postform and likes to fit in a game of golf when the opportunity arises. In the future, he says he would love to get involved in underage coaching but for the moment at least his focus is firmly on the Liam McCarthy!

"I feel with the right attitude from the players, Galway can challenge the best teams in the country. I believe the potential and the hurlers are there. It's all about getting our heads right for the challenge that lies ahead."

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment