The GAA Social Folgen

Willie Anderson is a former Ireland rugby captain from a Protestant, Unionist background. Growing up in county Tyrone, marching on the 12th of July, Gaelic Games wasn't the jumper that fitted best. Life changes. Arrest in Argentina, threat of execution, before playing rugby in communist Romania changed his outlook on the place he calls home. In this podcast we hear the thoughts from a different background. Can the GAA evolve to attract more Unionists? Should they? Willie Anderson played Gaelic football, his son Thomas also played. Thomas also played professional rugby for Ulster, Connacht and Ireland, winning an U20 Grand Slam. He sent a very powerful letter years later.There's a lot more. A United Ireland and challenges the debate provides for sports and society. What does Willie think? The former Irish captain battled alcohol addiction. He doesn't drink anymore. He was also involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of a young boy. It's been a life of challenges- but every single fence has been climbed. Willie has played Gaelic Games, helped clubs with fundraisers, and has aided various clubs and counties throughout the years at the highest level- including Armagh. The Cathal O'Rourke story is probably the best line in the podcast- and there are many! Willie looks to the future- "Tell your children you love them everyday, because you don't know when the day will arrive" The sport needs winners and losers, even at underage. He doesn't miss! It's a different podcast, but a unique insight into Gaelic Games from one of the finest people we've ever had on the show. Willie Anderson is a remarkable man, with a remarkable family. We hope you enjoy.PS- his son Jonathan is one of the globes best fashion designers. Rihanna's outfit at the Superbowl half-time show? Beyonce? LeBron James?PPS- He's now working with James Bond. What a man, what a family!

Hurling tops the bill as the roadtrip to Munster begins. Massive weekend of football coming up in Sam Maguire and Tailteann cup- we have all angles covered.

Sambo McNaughton is perhaps the most recognisable hurler in Ulster history. He scaled new heights with Antrim and Cushendall, managed both teams after retirement and continues to manage and coach today. His name is recognisable everywhere in Ireland- he doesn't even need a surname! Behind the man is a life struggling with a speech impediment, a troubled childhood and a society that was unforgiving to anyone that was 'a little bit different'In this podcast we explore a life where even answering a phone is impossible. With Brutal honesty, Sambo opens up on how the condition shaped his life, his lifelong friendship with John McKillop (The legend of Cushedall) and how it steered his mindset. It's a stunning listen.We talk hurling, it's future and Sambo comes up with a radical plan to help- especially for developing Ulster teams.Sambo also chats life, football, watching Tony Scullion, Greg Blaney and Henry Downey in his packed bar where everyone's attention was on the game. He feels it's different now.The first 35 minutes of this podcast is raw and perhaps the most powerful yet. Sambo McNaughton on the GAA Social. Words wouldn't do him justice. He has out ultimate respect