Making a lasting impression

It’s the stepping stone. The launch pad. The shout to the top.

The Allianz Football League has been called a lot of less complimentary things down through the years but never has it been more influential in elevating, grooming and developing players.

Of course, it wasn’t always that way. Kerry’s Declan Quill would testify to that. The Kerins O’Rahillys man lit up the league for Kerry in the early to mid-Noughties only to drop off the radar come championship time.

But for every Declan Quill, there are now handfuls of players who have seen their exploits in the league rewarded with team inclusion in the summer.

Some have been fringe players turned good; others who have built enough game-time in the competition to impress after succumbing to injuries.

Last year, Dublin’s Paul Flynn and James McCarthy earned their stripes in the early months to cement permanent slots down Pat Gilroy’s right wing, Flynn, of course, finishing the year as an All Star.

But for injury, Shane Enright would have been a cert for a corner-back berth with Kerry after some precocious displays in the spring while it was in Division 1 that Bryan Sheehan got to grips with his new midfield berth which he was also acknowledged for in the end-of-season accolades.

Before last year’s league, Ben Brosnan was on the fringes of the Wexford team. By the end of the year, he was an All-Star nominee.

Here we list 10 — in no particular order — to watch as they attempt to make their mark in this year’s Allianz Football League.

1. Ken O’Halloran (Cork)

If last year’s league confirmed one thing to Conor Counihan, it was that he has a ready-made replacement for Alan Quirke when he retires. O’Halloran had a fine campaign but was replaced by Quirke come May.

The Bishopstown man will be looking to impress Counihan further, starting against Armagh tomorrow.

2. Peter Crowley (Kerry)

Like Enright, Crowley’s very much seen as the type of agile player who will in time bring down the age profile of the Kerry defence. Voted an Ulster Bank Rising Star with UCC last year, the Laune Rangers man got a little taste of the league as a substitute last year.

3. Craig Dias (Dublin)

Anyone who has seen Dias perform for Kilmacud Crokes knows the power and speed of the 21-year-old. Named in Dublin’s half-back line for this evening’s game, Pat Gilroy has spoken glowingly about him improving since last year. Certainly one of the young bloods who the manager will hope can make things uncomfortable for the more established defenders.

4. Mikey Conway (Kildare)

Conway, another cruciate victim, has been redeployed in the half-forward line since the start of the year. But his excellent 2009 performances at wing-back aren’t forgotten. Will be interesting to see if the injury has negated his skillset.

5. Dermot Molloy (Donegal)

Regarded by Michael Murphy as the most skilful footballer in the Donegal camp, the Glenties forward is just out of U21 but is expected to be used more by Jim McGuinness this year. In the absence of Colm McFadden and Murphy for the early part of the league, he can stake a claim for a permanent spot.

6. Kyle Coney (Tyrone)

Based on how vaunted he was at minor level, the breakthrough for the Ardboe man has taken longer than expected but he is still only 21. Undoubtedly a finisher, his progression has probably been stinted by the fact Mickey Harte looks for adaptability in players. Coney has the class to take the next step.

7. Pat Harte (Mayo)

Something of a blast from the past for Mayo. Harte lines out against Laois this evening, earning a recall after impressive form with Ballina Stephenites. Could vie with the O’Shea brothers for a midfield spot later in the year.

8. Niall Daly (Roscommon)

Daly was on the UCC team that won last year’s Sigerson Cup and Cork championship. Des Newton will be delighted he has an up-and-coming tyro in defence when it’s the county’s promising attack that’s been taking the praise. Makes his league debut against Tipperary tomorrow.

9. Aidan Carr (Down)

Expect plenty of focus on Carr after his published frustrations with not making the Down championship team last year. His father Ross was certainly upset by it too but James McCartan has been giving the Clonduff man opportunities so far.

10. Michael Quinn (Longford)

Listening to Quinn give an interview to Newstalk recently, his maturity and level-headedness shone true. Clearly his AFL experience has benefited him rather than leaving him disenchanted, like some others who have returned home.

Manager Glen Ryan isn’t sure yet what position to put him in but wherever it is, he can prosper.

Picture: Dermot Molloy (Donegal)