The Shape I'm In: Eoin Cadogan

AFTER a series of injuries last year, Cork GAA player Eoin Cadogan is ready hit the pitch running — as a hurler and a footballer.

“People forget that, apart from the work involved, it’s a huge honour to try to represent your county in one sport, never mind two. You’re only there for a short time and you’ve got to make the most of it,” says the 27-year-old.

He is aware training will be full-on in both camps and is prepared to change his game plan. “If it didn’t work out, the schedule was too hectic, and both managers were finding it difficult to organise things, then we can sit down again.”

Though every waking moment is centred around sport, he has a firm eye on the future. “When you are 24 you are in this bubble where you think GAA is the be all and end all and you probably sacrifice everything else just for that, but I’ve come to the stage that, yes, I enjoy playing for my county, but you have to prioritise too and set yourself up.

“That’s something the GPA has been harping on about, the need to develop players outside as well as inside the GAA, which is a fantastic organisation to be involved in.

“It can be a very difficult time for players and managers — to go from 24/7 to probably nothing. it’s about managing yourself and preparing yourself for that too.”

A qualified electrician, he also worked in sales in O2 and Bord Gais. But when he hangs up his boots, the plan is to continue working in sport. He is currently studying strength conditioning through Setanta College. He is in good company. His girlfriend of two years, Julie Davis, is a strength and conditioning coach with Armagh GAA.

And it’s no surprise to hear he is considering TV and radio sports commentary. On his Twitter account he describes himself as: “Opinionated straight talker... small ball and big ball advocate”.

* Eoin supported the recent launch of AIB’s Me2U App — an easy and secure way of sending moneybetween mobile phones. See: www.aib.ie/me2u

What shape are you in?

This is our time of year when we try to get our fitness levels up to where they should be. I am about 40% to 50% of where I need to be. In four to six weeks I’ll make huge strides again. I’m happy with that.

Do you have any health concerns?

No. I’ve been lucky enough. It’s been all muscular injuries over the last few years.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I’d be good to drink water — between two and three litres a day. And, starting this year, I’ve drastically changed my nutrition, measuring my carb and protein intake.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

My phone — I’ve a tendency to be on it a lot particularly the social media aspect of it.

What would keep you awake at night?

If I’m not performing to my best — I have a tendency to run through things over and over in my head. It’s more likely to happen after a match.

How do you relax?

I try to read on the bus going to games. If I read at night time, I’ll get so involved in the book, I’ll stay up and not get the amount of sleep I need. The Power of Now is the last book I read.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Nelson Mandela, Roy Keane, Morgan Freeman and my girlfriend.

What’s your favourite smell?

Abercrombie and Fitch’s Fierce aftershave. I also like the smell of tiger balm — I’m so used to it in dressing rooms.

What would you like to change about your appearance.

My mother says I should shave more often. And, I’d like to have a more natural running style.

When was the last time you cried?

In 2011 when Mayo beat us in the quarter-final. It was such a comedown because we had won the All-Ireland the year before.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I tend to shoot from the hip and say it as it is. Unfortunately, while it might seem okay in my head, it might be offensive to whoever I’m talking to.

What trait do you least like in the others?

Dishonesty and disrespect.

Do you pray?

Not enough.

What would cheer up your day?

Being in the company of friends and family and knowing everyone is happy.