Galway’s All-Ireland Double winning keeper of 1987/1988 John Commins talks about hurling.

Welcome John. This is the important part of the hurling year as we anticipate the clash of Kilkenny and Tipperary in the All-Ireland Hurling Final.

First of all John, how did you prepare before your Finals?

Hi David. Back in the 80 s there were no wall balls or ‘HERBs’ so it was usually the forwards shooting for goals from the 21 as fast as possible and I had a second or two between shots. With 10 lads in front of you shooting from left to right it helped sharpen up.

With Gort playing in the senior club championship what was the weekly schedule for a Club player? And how has it changed for today’s players’?

The club would train 2 or 3 times a week with a match at the weekends , a lot more hurling than drills back then , no 15 minute warm ups or cool downs.

What was the weekly schedule for a County player in the 1980’s?

Leading up to big matches training was often 5 nights a week; this would be broken up between speed work, matches and stamina work but most of that done during the winter months.

Did you practice outside these team sessions?

Yeah, I would train with the club and also go to the pitch with some club mates to sharpen up before matches.

Your own children play hurling with Gort. What skills do you want players to practice at Home?

Players need to practice both sides and if your left is the weak side the ‘HERB’ is ideal for this, no matter what age or skill level the player can start hitting the weaker side off the ‘HERB’ and with the ball coming back each time it keeps you focused,as you get better on the weaker side you can go further back and continue the drill.

So, you and your children are happy with the ‘HERB’?

Yes we are delighted with the ‘HERB’ and its great that it can be used so easily. If one child needs to do a bit of practice it can be done without having to get someone else-usually me- hitting the ball back.

I’m delighted with it. My first touch and reactions has definitely improved. It’s a pity I didn’t have it a few years ago!!

What is your best score in the ‘HERB 1 Minute Shoot-Out’?

28 on a good day but I will improve.

How many windows have being broken since you started using ‘HERB’ here at home?

None but 3 before it arrived.

John, we know you coach teams at Gort. What is your one hurling coaching tip for teachers, coaches and players? If its kids your coaching remember to have fun in,we sometimes expect too much from young kids, for older teams remember you only get back from training what you put in .

Thank you John for your time.