Time to reflect

It's been a busy few weeks since the assessments in Newry. First there was the trip to Galway to spend some time with coaches discussing a range of coaching interests, and then the unplanned return to attend the funeral of Tom Tuohy.

Tom was a coach who wore his heart on his sleeve and it was quite clear that those athletes that worked with Tom were infused with the same passion and commitment that Tom showed. I deeply believe that the true mark of a coach is shown in the respect afforded by the athletes that have worked with that coach. Nowhere was that more clear than at Tom's funeral mass. The numbers attending that day and the sheer diversity of the mourners was a powerful reminder of the impact that a coach can have. Tom wasn't just a sports coach, he was a coach of men in the widest sense. 

Tom disliked bureaucracy and fiercely defended his charges. Tom's crews were always full on, never gave up, and would take on anyone. I knew Tom for a long time and we enjoyed the occasional catch up where we discussed the challenges facing our sport. Tom was both critical and supportive, and I always felt refreshed after an hour with him. Thanks Tom, we'll all miss you.