From proudly leading his native side behind the Tulla Pipe Band in Ennistymon’s first ever senior decider in 2018 to now being a waterboy on the sideline, it’s been an understandably frustrating transition for the injured Sean O’Driscoll.
Tearing a quad in Ennistymon’s final Cusack Cup game just three weeks before the championship throw-in, what initally seemed an injury that would prevent him from competing in the group stages unfortunately turned out to be more of a longer term issue as repeated attempts to ramp up his recovery have all proven futile.
Contrast that with Ennistymon’s remarkable run through the championship hurdles and it’s clearly mixed emotions for the former captain.
“I’m a terrible spectator. I have been on the sideline doing the water and I’m kicking every ball and I just know that some player will turn around and tell me to shut up at some stage during the game as I just can’t help it.
“Unfortunately I’ve been getting used to it over the last few games but I’d imagine Sunday will be even tougher again but that said, isn’t it great to be there again in the final.
“Overall, it has been a great year for the club. It’s only the second year that we’ve entered three teams but all of them have had deep runs into the championship so it has kept everyone happy in Ennistymon.
“I’m not sure if I could put my finger on any one thing why it has all come together at adult level this year but it seems to be the culmination of a series of efforts behind the scenes at underage and developing the adult pool of players into a second and now third team.”
There has also been a clear structure for all three teams that have helped youth and experience to blend seamlessly together for the cause.
“It has been very much about sticking to the same principles of play, the same basics, doing them well and still executing them well when the pressure comes on like the last time in the semi-final.
“We know that’s going to be really tested on Sunday. Éire Óg a very good side, well balanced and we saw how impressive they were in the semi-final so they will definitely be a tough nut to crack.
“However, our young lads have also been absolutely brilliant to watch and they would inspire you to show up every day at training and give it your all as they wouldn’t be long taking your place.
“From watching from the outside this year, it’s been brilliant to see such good, mature performances from such young guys and hopefully they can continue that one last time on Sunday.”