Fermanagh's McGrath played on despite cancer scare

It has emerged that Marty McGrath spearheaded Fermanagh's qualification for the Ulster SFC final in the summer, while privately having to cope with being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The Ernesiders' midfielder and captain learned of his diagnosis in June but he bravely decided to postpone the operation in order to play on in this year's championship.

He played in both the drawn and replayed Ulster finals against Armagh and also started the All-Ireland third round qualifier defeat to Kildare on August 3.

Recently named the Ulster GAA Player of the Year, McGrath had a successful operation at a Derry hospital in the middle of last month and will have to undergo regular check-ups.

The Ederney clubman is unfortunately no stranger to health scares.

He had to have laser heart surgery on two occasions in 2006 and his 2007 campaign was ruined when he was struck accidentally on the head by a digger and suffered a broken bone around the eye socket.

McGrath is hopeful of being included in the Ireland squad for the fast-approaching International Rules series, having featured in a trial game at Croke Park last Friday.

He is the third high profile GAA player to publicly battle testicular cancer in recent years.

Cork hurler Joe Deane and Mayo footballer Ronan McGarrity have both made full recoveries from the illness.