Mark Corry Answers Back In Nang Q and A

Tuesday 12.05.2020

1. Earliest GAA memory.

My earliest playing memory was when I was 12/13 versus Urney.  Only reason I remember is because it was such a bad day and I remember being freezing after it. Younger memory for me was when I was about 6 or so and I was allowed into Tyrone training one night to get a picture with Peter Canavan because I broke my arm, was the only thing to keep me quiet.

2. Was your family a traditional GAA family?

My parents wouldn’t have played much Gaelic but my mum and auntie Jo Lynch were always involved in the Castlederg committee. I had cousins played in successful Derg teams in the past as well. Dermott Corry played in the Derg minor team that won the division 1 double in 1988 and Damian Corry and Tar Lynch helped get the Derg promoted to division 2 around that time.

3. The best GAA venue you have been to?

I suppose it’s hard to beat Croke park on all Ireland Sunday when it’s packed to the rafters but I have a soft spot for Marius Mc Hugh Park. The pitch is always in brilliant condition.

4. School participation and/or success.

I didn’t play much during school. I remember going to the CBS in 6th year hoping to play Mc Rory but they had a great team the first year and won the Hogan and the second year I broke my shoulder and didn’t kick a ball so I didn’t play much.

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

When I was younger I remember Tyrone minors winning the all Ireland and Aidan Lynch getting man of the match. I couldn’t wait to get over to his house the next day to get a picture with him. Also loved watching Peter Canavan.

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

Played golf, soccer and Gaelic when I was younger. Found it harder to get a balance when I got a bit older so just play Gaelic now.

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

I’ve always had a good battle with Geard Devine from Owen Roes. We played a lot against each other growing up and you always knew it wasn’t going to be easy when he was walking towards you.

8. Best player you have ever seen play Gaelic football

Would have to be Peter Canavan for me he could score from anywhere, both footed, brave and hard as nails. He could do it all.

9. Are you a fan of the recent rule changes?

Not really I think the refs have a hard enough job as it is without giving them new rules every year. Refs at top level can deal with it a lot better than lower levels.

10. The best GAA match that you ever saw

Tyrone v Armagh All Ireland semi final was a brilliant match. Sweeney equalising then Canavan taking the free off Mugsy to hit the winner.

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

I think it definitely helps players develop and gives them a platform to play for the county at minor etc if they are good enough. It’s just hard to pick the right players all the time. I liked playing in them and you make good friends for life too.

12. Your own involvement around the club.

I just play at the minute. Want to get involved in coaching youth teams soon. I find it hard to commit to a team with work the past while.

13. How important is the GAA in your community?

I think it’s very important it brings the town together. Everyone working to raise money trying to improve the club all the time. Offers great structure for the youth and gives them something to dedicate themselves to from a young age.

14. Favourite county jersey (not Tyrone)

Offaly and Wexford

15. Are you a fan of penalties to decide the outcome of championship games?

No I don’t like it. I think it’s a bad way to lose. You train hard all year and you could lose a championship game hitting something you probably didn’t practice much at all year.