Demands & Preparation For Intercounty Camogie with Dr Philip Connors
What does it really take to prepare for the physical demands of intercounty camogie? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Philip Connors, lecturer and researcher, who completed his PhD on the exact topic. We dive deep into the GPS data, fitness testing, and training methods used at the elite level of camogie—and what coaches can learn from it all.🔔 Get more resources on camogie training & coaching straight to your inbox:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Philip shares unique insights from being embedded with a senior intercounty team for two seasons, explaining:The real match demands across different positionsWhy traditional training often falls shortHow to better structure sessions using games-based training, sprint exposure, and skill drillsThe biggest gaps in camogie physical prep (hint: speed and plyometrics!)Female-specific challenges, from ACL risk to logistical and cultural constraintsWhether you’re coaching at club or county level, camogie, football, or hurling—this episode will challenge your assumptions and sharpen your training plans. One for coaches who care about getting the details right.🎧 Listen now and level up your approach to physical preparation.
--------
56:03
The Expert's Guide To Recovery with Damien O'Sullivan
Recovery isn’t a luxury – it’s a strategy. In this episode, we welcome Damian Sullivan, owner of Borish Wellness & Recovery Suite, for a no-nonsense deep dive into what actually helps your body recover—and what might just be a waste of time. Whether you're training hard, juggling work and life, or just need a recharge, this episode gives you science-backed clarity.Damian shares the truth about cryo baths, compression boots, sauna sessions, and how your sleep, stress, and social recovery may be the low-hanging fruit you're missing. You’ll walk away understanding the difference between recovery and adaptation—and how to adjust your routine depending on the time of year or your training phase.👉 Sign up to my free newsletter to get expert insights and tools to level up your performance: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773
--------
35:44
Should Youth Athletes Do Running Without The Ball
In this episode, we dive deep into a controversial topic in youth coaching: Should young players, particularly U14 to Minor, engage in isolated conditioning — running without the ball?We explore:How background and past experiences shape coaching opinionsSurvey results from coaches, parents, and athletesWhy context — not tradition — should dictate your conditioning choicesThe hidden cost of focusing on fitness over skill developmentHow to support multi-sport players without overloading themWhen isolated running might be beneficial (and how to frame it positively)Real stories from coaching mistakes and lessons learnedWhy balancing fitness, skill, and tactical awareness is key to long-term success👉 Whether you’re a GAA coach, a parent, or a sports educator, this episode will help you make better decisions that truly support young athletes' development — not just in fitness, but in their future careers too.
--------
32:59
Redefining Success In Youth Sport - Petey Shaw Part 2
In part 2 of the conversation with Petey, we looked at how he has redefined success in youth sport.In his time as Director of Rugby at Terenure College, he has seen huge improvements in the amount of players taking up and being retained in Rugby as they've reduced the focus on winning trophies at younger ages.We discussed the main changes he has made which have led to numerous benefits across the entire school.
--------
31:30
Multi Sport Youth Athletes - Petey Shaw Part 1
In part 1 of the discussion with Petey Shaw, we dive into his PhD research on the plight of multi-sport youth athletes in Ireland.We hear so much about the benefits of playing a wide range of sports but what are the specific benefits and what, if any, are the drawbacks or consequences.Be sure to tune in next week where we look at optimal environments for youth sports and how we can redefine success for underage sports teams.
Ireland