Mighty Meelin’s date with destiny

TOM O’MAHONY has a confession to make. As the preparations were being put in place for Meelin’s 2010 junior hurling campaign, O’Mahony found himself mulling over thoughts of retirement.

After 22 years of toiling at the coalface without the county title he coveted, O’Mahony was hesitant about committing for a 23rd season. Then he was entrusted with the responsibility of seeking a new coach and he pinpointed the man whose presence would persuade him to row in for another campaign.

O’Mahony explained: “I’d have been friendly with Liam Ryan for a few years in hurling circles. There’d be a big connection between Newtownshandrum and Meelin, originally through Ben and Jerry’s father Bernie.