
About this episode
Niall Devlin is one of the top performers for Tyrone this season. He's only 22. He captained his county to an All-Ireland U20 title two years ago and has made the successful step up into senior level. It's his third season with the seniors. We reflect on Tyrone and look forward to the Tyrone Elclassico with the first round championship meeting of Clonoe and Coalisland. Niall won't be playing. He's learned his lesson. Progression, studying, family and football- life was great for Niall.
It changed. On March 5th, leaving training at Garvaghy, the Tyrone team were told the Omagh road was closed because of an accident, "Another poor family."
It was his family, his brother Caolan. The 30-year-old died instantly in a collision with a lorry and another family feeling the loss of tragedy on the A5. That's more than 50 dead since 2006 on the same road. That number will realistically, increase.
Niall is learning to live with loss, his mum and dad too. Football has helped and remarkably he landed back at training within a week "I'm here to play"
And play he did, on a wet night against Monaghan, a relegation eliminator of sorts. An emotional night and Niall stood for a minutes silence, for his brother. It's a story of family, Coalisland and Tyrone. It's a deeply personal account, told by a young man who radiates leadership, decency and a role model.
This is Niall Devlin. A remarkable podcast and one of the best people, you could ever wish to meet.
Get every episode summarized
Each time The GAA Social publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The GAA Social

Catriona McGahan. One slip, and now in a wheelchair. Authentic positivity
The GAA Social

Armagh romp, Monaghan madness, the Dubs are back
The GAA Social

Noel McGinn. Playing for Tyrone. Regrets in life. Living with Parkinson's diseas...
The GAA Social

Down stun Donegal. Mayo are out after Roscommon win. Glorious football
The GAA Social