Ballinderry Shamrocks' Gareth McKinless pictured ahead of the AIB All-Ireland Club IFC Final against Crossmolina Deel Rovers at Croke Park.
By Cian O’Connell
“We'd a great meeting at the start of the year when our management was announced, Jarlath Bell and Davy Harte,” Gareth McKinless explains about how Ballinderry dealt with the challenge of operating as an Intermediate club in Derry.
Ballinderry have won 13 senior county titles, three Ulster SFC crowns, and famously won an AIB All-Ireland Club SFC back in 2002. So, when the Derry Championships were restructured, Ballinderry were intermediate, but they ploughed on defiantly.
Emerging players were beginning to contribute, Ballinderry found a way to thrive. “We had a really good meeting,” McKinless says.
“We were honest with each other, that is sort of a principle that we've kept throughout the year, that we will be honest with each other in terms of our work on and off the pitch. The younger lads that have come through have given us a real good boost of energy.
“We had maybe six or seven of them with us for the last number of years, a few joined the panel this year, and we've a few coming next years. There was large periods, maybe five or six years ago, when we weren't producing players.
“At that stage, it puts the whole thing stale, when you're not improving yourselves as a group. We're just thankful that these young lads have come through.”
McKinless, the classy Derry player, acknowledges Bell and Harte’s significant contribution. “First and foremost, they're born winners, the two of them,” McKinless says.
Gareth McKinless in action for Ballinderry against Austin Stacks in the AIB All-Ireland Club IFC Semi-Final. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile
“They know exactly what it takes, they know exactly, most importantly, the standards required, both on and off the pitch. That is in all facets - S&C, nutrition, behaviour, everything.”
Providing a pathway for younger players to flourish is key to their approach according to McKinless. “They've been unbelievable leaders, even role models for our younger lads,” he adds.
“The second thing, and maybe the biggest thing, is that they're very approachable. We've had many a conversation, it isn't that we always agree, it isn't a dictatorship, it is very open, they listen, and we listen. We all just try to come together for the betterment of the team.
“Then, the coaching aspect, the team probably haven't been blessed with the quality of coaching that we require as a club, so Davy and Jarlath have been massive for the development of the team. Hopefully, we can press on now.”
Overcoming Austin Stacks at the penultimate stage illustrated Ballinderry’s durability. Now, a demanding task awaits against an able Crossmolina Deel Rovers outfit at Croke Park.
When Ballinderry triumphed in the AIB All-Ireland Club SFC 23 years ago, FBD Semple Stadium provided the backdrop. Playing at GAA headquarters matters deeply. Ultimately, it is a nice place to be going. “One hundred per cent, it is an All-Ireland final, no matter the grade,” McKinless responds.
“It is the first time Ballinderry have been in Croke Park too, it is a big thing for the club, the players, and the families. I'm trying to enjoy it, I'd have liked another week, just to savour it a bit more, but it is good.”
From a famous Ballinderry sporting family, McKinless is leading by example.
