Kiernan slams GAA players’ fitness levels

Former Irish Olympian Jerry Kiernan last night launched an astonishing broadside on the physical fitness levels of intercounty GAA players.

Kerryman Kiernan, who finished ninth in the marathon in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles and regularly appears on RTÉ televised athletics coverage, made the remarks in relation to yesterday’s announcement of the Government grant scheme for GAA players in favour of athletes.

“The GAA are the richest sporting organisation in the country, they should be able to look after themselves,” Kiernan said on Newstalk’s Off The Ball programme.

“I watch some of the games occasionally, but I watched some National League games over the weekend and it struck me how unfit some players were.

“I don’t have a high opinion of GAA players’ fitness or their commitment to fitness. I understand that it means a lot to a lot of people in the country, but if the money wasn’t given to them, would it affect attendances?”

Former Clare hurler Jamesie O’Connor also appeared on the show, and didn’t agree with Kiernan’s assertions.

“Back in 1997, I trained 22 times in 21 days, I was in the shape of my life and we had a great year subsequently.

“Fitness levels have progressed and advanced as sports science is being applied to a greater level, so I don’t think you can question the commitment that is being put in.”