Errigal’s Maria Canavan Takes The Mc Aleer And Rushe Q And A

Friday 24.07.2020

1. Earliest GAA memory.

Spending a lot of time with my older brother Thomas teaching me on the back street.. him being left footed I don’t think it’s any surprise I’m the same! Starting out with Errigal our u8/10 training.. Siobhan McGarvey was our coach, she was our senior ladies captain at the time so I loved it.

 2. How much time do you give over to GAA each week? Can you give us a breakdown of an average week?

In normal circumstances it would be every week night with a game or training on Sunday. At the minute it’s 3 a week just with club. It’s great being able to commit your full time to the club makes it more enjoyable.

 3. The best GAA venue you have been to?

I think Croke Park is the obvious answer for this one. I also love Clones as I have had a few great days there, namely winning an Ulster Intermediate with Tyrone and an Ulster Club Minor championship with Errigal.

 4. School participation and/or success.

Started primary in St Malachy’s Glencull. With the school being small in numbers myself and a few other girls played mostly on the boys team. In St Ciaran’s we had great success over the years in different age groups including an All Ireland A title and 4 Ulster A championship titles.

 5. Club/ County role models that you looked up to as a youth

My uncle Pascal was (and still is) someone I look up to. He coached me a lot at underage level so I learned a lot from him and still do. He is someone who knows me as well as myself when it comes to football and I have massive respect for him. Lycrecia Quinn is still teaching me her tricks of the trade! She’s a joy to play with….. most of the time

 6. Other sports that you played or had an interest in.

It was all football for me on a competitive level. Although that didn’t stop us from messing about in the garden playing whatever was going.. rugby, tennis or golf to name a few.

 7. Most difficult opponent you have faced in club football and why?

Enjoying our younger players stepping up in club training over the last few weeks. Mary Traynor and Aine Quinn are both tough tight wee markers.

 8. Best player you have ever seen play Gaelic football 

I always loved watching Colm Gooch Cooper when I was younger, some talent.

 9. Are you happy enough to see the restart of club and county activities? 

Yeah it’s great to be back out playing together. Everyone really missed the social aspect of it so it’s good to see teammates again and have the craic while we are together.

 10. The best GAA match that you ever saw.

Any of the 3 Tyrone All Ireland wins. I can just about remember the ‘03 final. But what I remember most is being on the pitch in Croke Park after those 3 finals, it was unreal!

 11. Are you a fan of academies/development squads? Why?

Yes and no I suppose. It’s a great way to improve, learn and play with new players. Although, I don’t think it’s fair for younger players to be put in the position of choosing to go to club or county if and when their trainings/games clash.

 12. Your own involvement around the club.

Did a bit of refereeing for a few underage blitzes a while back.. was dodgy enough, thankfully I’ve been replaced.

 13. How important is the GAA in your community?

The GAA is massive to every community, it’s what keeps everyone together and brings a great buzz to the area especially on big occasions or wins.

 14. Favourite county jersey (not Tyrone) 

Mayo

 15. What are your main strengths as a footballer?

Would be my passing or shooting I’d say.