Mark Fitzgerald: The makings of an intercounty manager

"I did some stuff this year, I look back and cringe."

Clare manager Mark Fitzgerald during the Munster SFC semi-final against Waterford. Picture: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

On Monday Mark Fitzgerald’s wife Ciara had to take him aside and remind to enjoy the week. For his entire life the Munster final always meant wild excitement. Even when the day brought crushing disappointment for his native county. Even now when he is attempting to administer it.

Growing up, the Munster final meant Killarney. It meant sun and strong Cork teams full of running. It meant golden days for the Kingdom. On Sunday they are expected to secure an 85th Munster title in a rematch of the 2023 fixture. Fitzgerald knows what those routine victories are like. But he also knows the stunning bolts from the blue that the occasion can sometimes bring.