Kieran Fitzgerald remains an influential player for Corofin.
By Cian O'Connell
In Corofin Gaelic Football dominates the agenda: it remains a valuable source of conversation and importance.
Kieran Fitzgerald's longevity and central role in the Corofin story continues to delight the admiring locals. Fitzgerald's presence minding the square has kept Corofin relevant in the west for two decades.
An All Ireland winner with Galway in 2001, Fitzgerald is still minding the house for Corofin. Returning to Croke Park brings a sense of satisfaction. "I wouldn’t say it is old hat, it is great to be involved," Fitzgerald laughs.
"This is a different team to that which went up there in 2015. We’ve had ups and downs since that. Whether we win or lose on St Patrick’s Day, to be involved with a club team on St Patrick’s Day is massive. For a club player, is is huge. It is, honest to God, what you dream about from a very young age."
There is something special about being at GAA headquarters on March 17. "I remember going to clubs finals and watching Nemo," Fitzgerald states.
"I remember being at a club final and watching St Finbarr’s in the 80s, just went up for the day out. It was always a day out. To be involved in one was super, I am looking forward to be involved in a second one.
"We are up against one of the superpowers in club football, Nemo. They’ve been there and they are a massive club. It is going to be a huge challenge."
Kieran Fitzgerald won an All Ireland title with Galway in 2001.
Fitzgerald recalls his first appearance at the Jones Road venue marking former St Jarlath's colleague Ronan Loftus in the 2001 Allianz League Final.
In the intervening years Corofin's panel has altered dramatically with Fitzgerald a constant. Even though the personnel changed silverware, particularly the Frank Fox Cup in Galway was frequently raised.
"It is testament to the underage structures, you can can add a few players each year," Fitzgerald says about Corofin's regeneration.
"When one team finishes, the young lads can fit into it. We have had lulls in the mid-noughties. Our underage structure has been good.
"These young guys are hungry. They want to improve. They are not sitting on their laurels. It’ll be a big occasion for them the next day."
Fitzgerald will be there, a reminder of what can be achieved through a beautiful blend of graft and craft.
