Declan Bogue: The most prolific hurler ever, Damian Casey was a rare jewel whose gifts will live on

Tyrone hurling captain's discipline, respect for opponents and respect for the game will be taught forever wherever a hurl is held in the hand

One of a kind: Damian Casey of Tyrone during the Nickey Rackard Cup Final match between Roscommon and Tyrone at Croke Park in Dublin. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

THE further down the hurling ladder you go, the more laissez-faire teams can become over your personal safety.

As a result, the top players at that level can be subject to all sorts of reducers and tricks to stop them performing. And given the small pool that Ulster hurling swims in, familiarity can breed contempt.