The Kieran Shannon interview: How Cody built towers of strength

Seven-time All-Ireland winner Brian Hogan knows the impression people have is that Brian Cody ruled the Kilkenny dressingroom with an iron fist and that all the players lived in fear of him. But he insists Cody never inhibited his players and sometimes even joined in the laughter. Here he provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into the way Cody empowered his players and continues to turn young hurlers into leaders.

Before games he’d sit on the dressing room bench, the head down, quietly lost in his own thoughts and even occasional fears and doubts, when he’d spot the shadow looming over him.

Brian Hogan would look up to see Brian Cody and “the big hands on him”.