"We were very lucky" – Keith Higgins Discusses the Evolution of Gaelic Games in Exclusive Podcast Interview

10/07/2024 04:22 PM

By Patrick Sharkey,

In a captivating new episode of the podcast, Gaelic football and hurling icon Keith Higgins shared his insights on the evolving dynamics of both sports, the intricacies of leadership, and the unique challenges faced by modern dual players. A stoppage-time goal from Kerry's Fionan Mackessy clinched the victory at the death. A 13-man O'Loughlin Gaels side got a stunning victory over city rivals Dicksboro in a highly dramatic Kilkenny SHC quarter-final in UPMC Nowlan Park. Second-half red cards to Mikey Butler for an extraordinary challenge on Shane Stapleton and team captain Mark Bergin for an off-the-ball incident with Ollie Walsh looked to have the defending champions in real trouble but a stoppage-time goal from Kerry's Fionan Mackessy saved the day as Brian Hogan's side battled to a 2-17 to 0-20 success. With Luke Hogan earning an opening-minute goal and proving a real menace in attack, O'Loughlin's appeared to be in full control as they led their near neighbours.

Reflecting on his time with the inter-county squad, Higgins highlighted the importance of unity and camaraderie among players. "We were very lucky… that whole 33, 34 players were very, very close…"  

Conversely, Higgins acknowledged that maintaining harmony within a group can be challenging.

The chat also touched on the tactical evolution of Gaelic football, particularly over the last decade.

As a spiked leader, Higgins shared his philosophy on leadership within a team context. "I wasn’t a massive talker in the dressing room. I kind of tried to lead by example," he explained, recognising the need for varied approaches to motivate different personalities. "Some people will take that bit more of a harsher criticism… other lads need to kind of hand around the shoulder and encouragement to get the best out of them," he explained. Keith Higgins also said: "I think when I was playing, when I started off probably back in around 2005, 2006, when I was still trying to combine both of them."

Transitioning from inter-county play to club living, Higgins noted that the change has been seamless.

One of the critical issues discussed was the increasing demands placed on inter-county players and the implications for the future of the GAA. Higgins said, "I think the inter-county game has nearly kind of gone a small bit too big for itself… something’s going to have to give, I think," calling for a reassessment of scheduling and player welfare. "We need to have a real look at it and see what we want out of this," he urged, suggesting that a greater emphasis should be placed on club level.

Higgins also articulated concern regarding the sustainability of current commitments for dual players.

Hearers can gain deeper insights into the world of Gaelic sports and the personal experiences of one of its most respected figures by tuning into the full episode. Keith Higgins' thoughts not only shed light on the complexities of leadership and teamwork but also pose critical questions about the future of Gaelic games. Keith Higgins added: "Well, I suppose here in the club, there was football."

Tune in now on Spotify to catch the full interview!