McComiskey determined to build on early promise

HE was Down’s star player when they overpowered Mayo in the All-Ireland minor final five years ago, and had a host of AFL clubs scrambling for his services; but his name isn’t Marty Clarke — meet Paul McComiskey.

Like Clarke, the Dundrum forward was one of those kids who everyone knew was destined for great things on the football field. Things happened quickly. He was 14 when he made his senior debut for his club.

Such a precocious rise carries echoes of Benny Coulter’s career with Mayobridge and comparisons with Down manager James McCartan have also been made given the pair’s similar stature and admirable close control.