Coach's Lab with John Murphy

Join my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773What do kids actually need from sport — and are we getting it wrong?In this episode of Coach’s Lab, I sit down with Colman Noctor, child and adolescent psychotherapist, to explore the role sport plays in the psychological, social and emotional development of young people.We move beyond drills, fitness and results to look at the real impact coaching has on children, and how small changes in approach can shape their long-term experience in sport.We discuss:What children need from sport at different agesThe balance between fun, development and competitionWhy more kids are dropping out of sportThe influence of parents, coaches and environmentCoaching your own child and managing expectationsWhat to say (and not say) after gamesA thought-provoking episode for coaches, parents, teachers and anyone involved in youth sport, focused on creating environments where kids can enjoy, develop and stay involved for life.

Join my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773How you coach — and why you do what you do — often matters more than the programme itself.In this episode, I’m joined by Orlaith Curran, Head of Athletic Performance for Women’s Sevens and Pathway in the IRFU, to explore what really matters when working with female athletes.Rather than getting caught up in exercises or session plans, this conversation focuses on the bigger picture — coaching approach, communication, environment and understanding the athlete in front of you.We discuss:Why the “how” and “why” matter more than the “what”Key considerations when training female athletesDifferences in volume, intensity and conditioning demandsInjury risk, athletic development and pathway structuresThe importance of education, buy-in and player understandingBuilding environments that support performance and developmentA practical and thought-provoking episode for GAA, rugby and field sport coaches, S&C practitioners, and anyone working with female athletes.

Join my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773📥 Resources discussed in this episode:Meaning in Youth Sport (MiYS): https://www.mic.ul.ie/sites/default/files/uploads/639/Getting%20Started%20with%20MiYS%202023%20ENG%20fnl.pdfVoice & Choice in PE: https://www.irishprimarype.com/student-voice-in-pe/Drowning in the Shallow – The 3Ps: https://drowningintheshallow.wordpress.com/2026/02/22/the-3ps-that-underpin-meaningful-pe/What makes a meaningful experience in sport?In this episode, we explore how coaches can move beyond drills and results to focus on what really matters — player experience, engagement and long-term participation.We discuss key ideas from Meaningful Experiences in Youth Sport (MiYS), along with practical concepts like voice and choice and the 3Ps framework, and how they can be applied in real coaching environments.We cover:What players actually remember from sportHow to create engaging and enjoyable sessionsThe role of autonomy and player voiceBalancing challenge and enjoymentPractical ways to improve your coaching sessionsA valuable listen for coaches, teachers, parents and anyone working with young athletes looking to create more impactful and meaningful sporting experiences.

Join my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Should underage players be streamed by ability in Gaelic Games?In this episode, I’m joined by David Moran, postdoctoral researcher at DCU and coach developer, to explore one of the most debated topics in youth sport — ability grouping and streaming in underage teams.We discuss research examining the experiences of players, parents and coaches in clubs that stream players at U13, U15 and U17 level. Rather than framing streaming as simply “good” or “bad,” the conversation focuses on how it is implemented and the impact it can have on player development, challenge, belonging and motivation.We cover:Why streaming is becoming more common in large clubsPotential benefits of appropriate challenge and stable teamsThe risks of rigid streaming structuresMovement between teams and maintaining development opportunitiesResource allocation across A, B and C teamsDifferences in boys’ and girls’ experiencesWhy lower-tier teams still care deeply about competing and winningA thought-provoking conversation for coaches, club leaders, parents and coach developers navigating how best to structure underage teams in growing clubs.

Join my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773What can GAA coaches learn from elite track & field?In this episode, I’m joined by Colm Bourke — National Indoor Long Jump Champion, coach, and host of the Track & Field Performance Podcast — to explore how sprinting and jumping principles can improve speed, power and physical preparation in team sports.We discuss:Acceleration vs max velocity and how to structure speed trainingWhy sprint sessions should prioritise intent over aestheticsStrength training: when it supports speed and when it can blunt itPairing gym work with track sessionsProfiling athletes (elastic vs force-dominant types)Conditioning power athletes without killing explosivenessPlanning microcycles and building from general to specificThe importance of reflection and coaching philosophyThis is a practical conversation for GAA, LGFA and Camogie coaches looking to sharpen their approach to speed development and weekly planning.

Sign up to my weekly coaching & performance email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773How do you condition players so they’re fit enough for the game — without leaving them cooked, flat, or under-recovered?In this episode, I’m joined by Ciaran Boyle, S&C coach with Tipperary Senior Camogie, to discuss a more individualised approach to conditioning using speed-endurance profiling and micro-dosing speed.We cover:Why one-size-fits-all conditioning often failsSpeed-based, endurance-based and hybrid player profilesMAS, Max Sprint Speed and Anaerobic Speed Reserve explained simplyWhy two players with the same MAS can respond very differentlyHow to manage different profiles within the same squadMicro-dosing speed to maintain performance in-seasonStraight-line vs curved sprinting and progressionManaging load, recovery and congested schedulesA practical conversation for GAA, Camogie and LGFA coaches looking to improve fitness while keeping players healthy and available.

Sign up to my weekly coaching & youth development email list:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773How well are young athletes actually supported to fuel themselves properly?In this episode, I’m joined by Paul O’Sullivan, performance nutritionist working with the Cork senior hurlers and across underage and development squads. We move beyond calorie counts and food lists to talk about habits, behaviour change, and the environments young athletes grow up in.We discuss:Why adolescence places huge energy demands on athletesCommon fuelling mistakes in teenage playersWhy carbohydrates are often under-fuelledProtein myths in youth sportEating around the school day and busy training schedulesThe role of parents in shaping positive nutrition behavioursAvoiding diet culture and harmful language with young athletesTeaching cooking and food prep skillsSupplements, body composition and safeguarding📲 Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul_bespokecoachingThis episode is essential listening for parents, coaches, S&C practitioners and teachers working with young athletes who want to support performance without creating anxiety around food.

Weekly coaching insights & updates: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Lavin’s Game Sense Coaching resources: https://www.gamesensecoaching.com/What is Game Sense — and how do coaches actually develop it?In this episode, I’m joined by the Lavin brothers, creators of the Game Sense Coaching framework, to break down how games-based coaching improves decision-making, skill execution, and understanding in Gaelic Games.We discuss:What Game Sense really means beyond the buzzwordWhy skills must be learned in game-like contextsUsing Whole–Part–Whole through games, not drillsHow to design better games using space, numbers and rulesCommon mistakes in games-based coachingThe coach behaviours that matter most: observation, questioning and restraintA practical, coach-friendly conversation for anyone working in GAA, schools or youth sport who wants to design better sessions and develop smarter players.

Free Youth Athletic Development Programme + 5-Day Email Course: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/a441db6d48Weekly Coaching Email List: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773How do we combine strength, speed, skill, and decision-making in a way that actually transfers to the game? In this episode, I chat with Stephen Casey, an S&C coach and skill acquisition practitioner working across GAA and rugby, to explore the messy reality of performance.We discuss:• Why siloed training often fails to improve match performance• Agility as a decision-making challenge, not a cone drill• When strength work improves kicking… and when it won’t• Using constraints to improve skill, agility & game understanding• Why racing & chasing develops speed better than most drills• KPIs (MAS, CMJ, 0–10m, GPS) — useful or misleading?• How to design games that develop physical, technical & tactical qualities• The importance of individualising training instead of chasing generic numbersA brilliant episode for any coach trying to blend S&C, skill acquisition and game-based coaching into one coherent model.

👉 Free Youth Athletic Development Programme + 5-Day Email Course: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/a441db6d48👉 Paul Kilgannon’s 2026 Carver Coaching Community Programme: https://carvercoachingframework.com/product/2026-carver-coaching-community-programme/?mc_cid=5c49bc1cb6&mc_eid=24d11d3dc9What separates good coaches from truly great ones?In this episode, I’m joined by Paul Kilgannon, Coach Developer and Performance Consultant, to explore the building blocks of coaching craft: your philosophy, your skills, your tools, and how you influence the people around you.We discuss:Why simplicity is a superpower in coachingCoaching skills vs coaching tools — and how to use each properlyHow to shape your coaching philosophy (“This Is Me”)Designing purposeful sessions, questions, games & conversationsBackroom teams: roles, relationships and psychological safetyReflective practice — how to genuinely improve as a coachWhat’s undervalued and overrated in modern coachingIf you coach in GAA or any sport, this episode will help you rethink how you plan, communicate, and build the environments where athletes learn and perform.

👉 Free Youth Athletic Development Programme + 5-Day Email Course: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/a441db6d48What can GAA coaches learn from professional soccer? In this episode, I’m joined by Shane Keegan — UEFA Pro Licence coach, former League of Ireland manager, and Games Manager with Laois GAA.We dig into how coaching principles transfer across sports, and why the best coaches focus on clarity, communication, and designing sessions with purpose.What we cover:The biggest lessons GAA can take from soccerHow to design sessions around clear objectivesWhole–Part–Whole: when and how to use itPlayer communication and simple, effective feedback“Repetition without repetition” for real skill developmentUsing analysis and data to shape a game modelLeadership, relationships, and managing playersA brilliant conversation for any coach interested in improving how they plan, communicate, and create meaningful training environments.

Free Youth Athletic Development Programme + 5-Day Email Course: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/a441db6d48How fit should underage GAA players be — and what does the data actually say?I’m joined by Lorcan Daly (TUS) to unpack 10+ years of county development-squad testing: what was measured, why it matters, and how coaches should interpret results for real player development (not box-ticking).What we cover:Testing vs monitoring: using numbers to guide, not judgeKey measures: sprint speed, jumps, Yo-Yo, body compositionGrowth & maturation: why “normal” progress isn’t linearPositional notes: why GKs and midfielders often look differentSpeed–momentum explained (speed × mass) and why it’s usefulPractical takeaways for coaches & parentsIf you coach youth Hurling or Gaelic Football, this episode gives you clear, level-headed guidance on what to track and how to use it to support long-term development. Subscribe for weekly GAA coaching, S&C, and skill development episodes.

Sign up for my free weekly GAA coaching insights here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773📹 Related video: How to Blend Games with Runs in GAA Conditioning👉 https://youtu.be/ku7lN2W5T8k?si=fbyb3VEds6BKi7tz📸 Follow Cian O’Dea on Instagram:👉 @cianodea_sc💼 Learn about my Youth S&C Consultancy Services:👉 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WyrxfpBLkpQDXeS1SqevwohFmEtOq_xFtW9s6W5FOnU/edit?usp=sharingIn this episode of Coach’s Lab, Dr John Murphy is joined by Cian O’Dea — Strength & Conditioning coach, Coach Education Manager, and PhD researcher — to discuss the physical and tactical impact of a Games-Based Approach in Gaelic Games.Cian shares findings from his research on how different game formats influence fitness, speed, and decision-making, and how coaches can build sessions that are both engaging and physically demanding.We chat about:🏐 Designing games that develop skill and conditioning🧠 Blending small-sided and large-sided formats for different outcomes🔁 When and how to include top-up running outside games📊 The physiological demands revealed through Cian’s studies🎯 Practical takeaways for coaches balancing realism, fun, and load managementWhether you’re a GAA coach, S&C practitioner, or PE teacher, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you get more from every session.Follow Coach’s Lab for weekly conversations on Gaelic Games, coaching, sports science, and athletic development.#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #GamesBasedApproach #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #SportsScience #GaelicFootball #Hurling

Sign up for my free weekly GAA coaching insights here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773In this episode of Coach’s Lab, Dr John Murphy is joined by Donnacha Mulcahy, Lecturer in Strength & Conditioning at TUS and S&C Coach with the Tipperary Senior Hurling and Football teams.Donnacha has worked across GAA, rugby, and schools rugby systems, giving him a unique view of what connects and separates elite sport, youth development, and coach education in Ireland.Together we discuss:🏋️‍♂️ Integrating new players into adult panels and managing different training ages📊 Monitoring load, jump testing, and profiling in intercounty squads⚡ Preparing underage athletes for the physical demands of senior sport🔄 Lessons GAA can learn from rugby’s structured coach-education model🤝 How to balance theory, experience, and enjoyment in S&C🧠 Why “keeping it simple” often delivers the best resultsDonnacha’s blend of academic insight and on-the-ground coaching experience makes this one a must-listen for anyone serious about athlete development in Gaelic Games.Follow Coach’s Lab for more conversations on Gaelic Games, coaching, youth development, and applied sports science.#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #SportsScience #GaelicFootball #Hurling

📩 Sign up for my free weekly GAA coaching insights here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Follow Stephen Walsh:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sw_elite/🏋️ Atlas High Performance Gym: https://www.atlashpc.ie/In this episode of Coach’s Lab, I’m joined by Stephen Walsh – S&C coach and owner of Atlas High Performance in Limerick. Stephen works with athletes across 14+ sports, from GAA to soccer, Irish dancing to golf, and shares how he applies simple, effective training principles to very different contexts.We cover:🏋️ Stephen’s gym session framework and why it works across multiple sports⚡ The balance between general athletic development and sport-specific training👟 Practical examples: sprint prep, plyos, loaded jumps, strength & resilience work📈 How to individualise training without overcomplicating it🤝 The role of collaboration, coach education, and creating sustainable pathways for athletes and coachesWhether you’re a coach, athlete, or parent, you’ll take away practical ideas for structuring sessions, avoiding over-specialisation, and building athletic qualities that transfer to the pitch (or stage).🔔 Don’t forget to follow the show for more conversations on Gaelic Games, S&C, coaching, and youth development.#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #SportsScience

Weekly GAA Coaching insights (my list): https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Philip’s newsletter (skill acquisition + practice design): https://mrtenniscoach.substack.com/How do players really develop skill in Gaelic Games? In this episode, Skill Acquisition expert Philip O’Callaghan joins me to unpack the science and practice of learning.We explore:Why skills are best understood as problem-solvingHow to design training that truly represents the gameThe Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) explained in plain languageWhen to use opposed vs unopposed practiceIsolating “slices” of the game to accelerate learningPhilip shares practical examples coaches can apply straight away — from shaping small-sided games to tweaking constraints that bring skills to life.If you coach Hurling or Gaelic Football, this conversation gives you a clear framework to design sessions that create smarter, more adaptable players.#GAA #Coaching #SkillAcquisition #ConstraintsLedApproach #EcologicalDynamics #PracticeDesign

👉 Sign up for weekly GAA Coaching insights here: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Agility is more than just running around cones. In this episode, I chat with Paul Talty — S&C coach and PhD researcher on Change of Direction and Agility in Gaelic Games.We cover:The real difference between change of direction and agilityWhy decision-making and anticipation matter as much as speedKey findings from Paul’s research on Gaelic FootballHow coaches can prepare players for sharp cuts, turns and 1v1 battlesPaul has coached with the Mayo Senior Footballers, worked across top GAA clubs, and spent 5 years as Head of Performance with Swim Ireland, travelling to two Olympic Games.This episode blends science, coaching, and practical takeaways for anyone serious about improving agility in Hurling or Football.#GAA #Coaching #Agility #StrengthAndConditioning

How do All-Ireland winning GAA players actually fuel themselves — not just with protein and carbs, but with the habits, systems and support that make eating well possible?In this episode of Coach’s Lab, I chat with John O’Connor (Target Nutritionist & Kerry Senior Football nutritionist) about how he helps players eat better in real-world environments.We discuss:Why behaviour change is more important than nutrition factsBuilding structures & routines that stickThe role of caterers, coaches, physios & parents in fuelling playersPractical, low-budget ideas for clubs to improve post-training nutritionHelping young players and families build long-term eating habitsThis isn’t about grams of protein or fancy supplements — it’s about realistic strategies coaches, parents, and players can use to make nutrition work.Join my free email list for weekly coaching, nutrition & performance tips in GAA: ⁠https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773⁠You can find john on Instagram: @target.nutrition

🎯 Grab the In-Season Speed Guide for GAA Coaches (€29):https://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/gaa-in-season-speed-guide📬 Join the Free Email Newsletter for Coaches:Weekly coaching tools, insights & resources → https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Episode Title:Improving Movement Skills in Teenage Girls – w/ Brian O’Boyle (@PALM_Ireland)In this episode, I’m joined by Brian O’Boyle — primary school principal, PE lecturer, and former senior intercounty camogie coach — to dive deep into how fundamental movement skills (FMS) can still be developed in the teenage years, especially among female GAA players.We explore the findings from Brian’s recent 20-week intervention with U14 development squads, where structured FMS sessions led to measurable improvements in both movement quality and camogie-specific skills.This one is full of practical takeaways for club and county coaches working with young players — from how to design warm-ups with purpose, to how movement skills can help reduce dropout and injuries.🧠 Topics Include:Why hopping, jumping, and landing matter more than we thinkThe link between movement skills and game-specific skills like strikingHow to embed FMS into GAA sessions without losing game timeStrategies to boost confidence and retention in teenage girlsWhat Brian learned from his coaching, teaching, and academic experiences📲 Follow Brian on Twitter: @PALM_Ireland🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you found this helpful.

Grab My GAA In-Season Speed Guidehttps://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/gaa-in-season-speed-guideA must-have for any coach managing speed, sprint loads, and injury risk during a hectic GAA season.Are you using your GPS data effectively—or just collecting numbers?In this episode, I’m joined by Fionn O’Shea, a performance consultant with elite experience across Gaelic Games, rugby league, and AFL. We explore how to move beyond "distance covered" and start using GPS data to actually improve your training design and player readiness.Here’s what we cover:The most important GPS metrics (and which ones to ignore)How to structure your training week using match demandsMax speed, sprint distance, HSR, axels/d-cells, and meters per minuteManaging subs, small groups, and limited GPS podsClub vs intercounty differences in GPS dataHow to combine GPS with RPE for smarter coaching decisionsWhether you're a coach with 2 GPS units or a full stack of 20+, this episode will help you plan, monitor, and adapt like a pro.🔗 Follow Fionn for more insights:📸 Instagram: @osheaperformance🐦 Twitter/X: @fionnosheaIf you’re a coach who wants to stay ahead of the curve with practical, game-ready performance strategies, hit that follow button and share this episode with your team.#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #GPSData #CoachEducation #GaelicFootball #Hurling #Camogie #PlayerMonitoring #TrainingLoad #Sprinting #PerformancePlanning

🎧 Purchase the In-Season Speed Guidehttps://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/gaa-in-season-speed-guide📥 Access the Top Speed Warm-Up Templatehttps://fhs-performance.kit.com/990dc8c063Episode Summary:In this episode, we explore the 7 most common mistakes GAA coaches and players make when trying to improve sprinting and speed. From over-relying on drills to neglecting the role of actual sprint exposure, we break down what’s holding players back and how to fix it.Whether you're coaching at underage, club, or intercounty level, this episode provides practical takeaways to improve your speed training methods. We also discuss the role of strength work, plyometrics, recovery, and how to better integrate sprinting into GAA schedules.Topics Covered:Sprint exposure for underage vs adult playersWhen drills help — and when they don’tHow much recovery is really needed between sprintsIntegrating sprinting with gym work and gamesSmart use of hills, games, and plyometricsThe impact of video feedback and coaching detail🔗 For more speed-focused training support, grab the In-Season Speed Guide and the Top Speed Warm-Up Template using the links above.🎙️ Follow for weekly episodes on performance, coaching, and long-term athlete development in Gaelic Games.

🎯 Grab the GAA In-Season Speed Guide:https://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/gaa-in-season-speed-guideIn this episode, we take a clear-eyed look at the current state of youth player development in Gaelic Games — what’s working, what’s not, and what we can do better. Drawing on research, practical coaching experience, and system-level insights, we explore the real environments young players are growing up in, and how we can support them more effectively.You’ll learn:Why the best 14-year-old doesn’t always become the best 20-year-oldCommon pitfalls in talent identification and how to avoid themHow late developers, multi-sport athletes, and early burnout all tie into your coaching decisionsThe real meaning of “development” beyond drills and skillsKey messages for parents, coaches, and county board stakeholdersIf you're a coach, S&C, or development officer working with young players — this one’s for you. Expect honest reflection, practical solutions, and some uncomfortable truths.🔗 Watch the YouTube version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44AWd_3d7jc&ab_channel=DrJohnMurphy📲 Follow for more coaching insights on Instagram: @john.murphydrTwitter/X: @fhsperformance

Carb Loading for GAA Players: How to Fuel for PerformanceChampionship season is here—and that means it's time to fuel up properly. In this episode, we take a deep dive into carbohydrate loading for GAA players, covering common mistakes, practical strategies, and simple food swaps that can massively impact your energy, recovery, and match-day performance.Drawing from sport science, nutrition research, and real-world coaching experience across Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie, we break down:Why carbs matter more than ever in-seasonHow much you actually need (spoiler: it’s probably more than you think)What foods work best—and what to avoidStep-by-step strategies to gradually increase intake without feeling bloatedReal-life examples and meal templates from club and intercounty players🎯 Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, this episode will give you the tools to fuel smarter and perform better week after week.📥 Download the free Nutrition Cheat Sheet (includes carb-loading guide):👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/1cef236936🚀 Need to improve your speed in-season without adding fatigue?Grab the In-Season Speed Guide here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/gaa-in-season-speed-guideIf you found this helpful, share it with teammates or your squad WhatsApp group. Let’s make better fueling the norm in Gaelic Games.

👉 Stay fast. Stay strong. Even in-season.The games don’t stop — but neither should your physical performance.📦 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:🔥 In-Season Speed Plan (For Sale)A complete, game-ready speed program built for players who want to stay sharp all season. Ideal for busy match weeks and adaptable to your training schedule.→ Includes sprint drills, jump variations, and simple weekly templates.🎁 Free Download: In-Season Strength GuideA practical, no-fluff guide to maintaining strength in-season — without wrecking recovery or stealing from game day.→ Sample gym sessions, scheduling tips, and key mistakes to avoid.🧠 In this episode, we cover:Why strength & power decay quickly in-season (and how to stop it)The “12-day rule” every GAA coach should knowHow to schedule gym work around your pitch sessionsCommon mistakes (like training everyone the same or lifting too close to match day)Smart strategies: microdosing, double-sessions, and player-led choicesPitch-based ways to maintain strength using sprints, sleds, and plyosThis one’s for the players, coaches, and S&C practitioners who want to train smart, stay powerful, and dominate late into the season.Don’t let all your off-season gains go to waste — let’s get to work.

🎁 Download Your Free Top Speed Warm-Up GuideStart your next speed session right → https://fhs-performance.kit.com/990dc8c063🎙️ Episode Title: Speed Development for Team Sports with Kieran Gillespie (@SprintScience)In this episode, I chat with sprint coach and 400m hurdler Kieran Gillespie, co-host of The Sprint Lab Podcast, about how to actually develop speed — especially for team sport athletes like GAA, football, and rugby players.We cover:Why speed is a trainable skill, not just a genetic giftHow to safely introduce sprinting to athletes (and why less is often more)The sprint drills that deliver the biggest bang for your buckCommon speed training mistakes in team sport settingsWhy building top speed improves endurance and repeat sprint abilityHow to structure sprint sessions for max intent and minimal sorenessSpeed training for youth athletes — what matters most at early stagesThis conversation is packed with practical advice, evidence-based principles, and real-world coaching insight. Whether you’re working with youth players or senior teams, you’ll take away simple strategies to build faster, more robust athletes.📲 Follow Kieran on Instagram → @SprintScienceIf you enjoy this episode, follow the show, rate it, and share it with another coach who wants to build speed the smart way.#SpeedTraining #SprintDrills #GAAFitness #TeamSportConditioning #YouthAthleteDevelopment #SprintScience #StrengthAndConditioning #PodcastForCoaches #TopSpeedWarmUp

What does it really take to prepare for the physical demands of intercounty camogie? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Philip Connors, lecturer and researcher, who completed his PhD on the exact topic. We dive deep into the GPS data, fitness testing, and training methods used at the elite level of camogie—and what coaches can learn from it all.🔔 Get more resources on camogie training & coaching straight to your inbox:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773Philip shares unique insights from being embedded with a senior intercounty team for two seasons, explaining:The real match demands across different positionsWhy traditional training often falls shortHow to better structure sessions using games-based training, sprint exposure, and skill drillsThe biggest gaps in camogie physical prep (hint: speed and plyometrics!)Female-specific challenges, from ACL risk to logistical and cultural constraintsWhether you’re coaching at club or county level, camogie, football, or hurling—this episode will challenge your assumptions and sharpen your training plans. One for coaches who care about getting the details right.🎧 Listen now and level up your approach to physical preparation.

Recovery isn’t a luxury – it’s a strategy. In this episode, we welcome Damian Sullivan, owner of Borish Wellness & Recovery Suite, for a no-nonsense deep dive into what actually helps your body recover—and what might just be a waste of time. Whether you're training hard, juggling work and life, or just need a recharge, this episode gives you science-backed clarity.Damian shares the truth about cryo baths, compression boots, sauna sessions, and how your sleep, stress, and social recovery may be the low-hanging fruit you're missing. You’ll walk away understanding the difference between recovery and adaptation—and how to adjust your routine depending on the time of year or your training phase.👉 Sign up to my free newsletter to get expert insights and tools to level up your performance: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773

In this episode, we dive deep into a controversial topic in youth coaching: Should young players, particularly U14 to Minor, engage in isolated conditioning — running without the ball?We explore:How background and past experiences shape coaching opinionsSurvey results from coaches, parents, and athletesWhy context — not tradition — should dictate your conditioning choicesThe hidden cost of focusing on fitness over skill developmentHow to support multi-sport players without overloading themWhen isolated running might be beneficial (and how to frame it positively)Real stories from coaching mistakes and lessons learnedWhy balancing fitness, skill, and tactical awareness is key to long-term success👉 Whether you’re a GAA coach, a parent, or a sports educator, this episode will help you make better decisions that truly support young athletes' development — not just in fitness, but in their future careers too.

In part 2 of the conversation with Petey, we looked at how he has redefined success in youth sport.In his time as Director of Rugby at Terenure College, he has seen huge improvements in the amount of players taking up and being retained in Rugby as they've reduced the focus on winning trophies at younger ages.We discussed the main changes he has made which have led to numerous benefits across the entire school.

In part 1 of the discussion with Petey Shaw, we dive into his PhD research on the plight of multi-sport youth athletes in Ireland.We hear so much about the benefits of playing a wide range of sports but what are the specific benefits and what, if any, are the drawbacks or consequences.Be sure to tune in next week where we look at optimal environments for youth sports and how we can redefine success for underage sports teams.

I'm joined by a man with an extensive background across a range of sports including GAA, Basketball & Aussie Rules. Kevin Mulcahy has a wealth of experience in coaching the physical, technical and tactical of many codes. He has deep understanding of how they all impact on each other which has led to him becoming a thought leader in the planning of coaching across both the short and long term.The Coaching Cohort Free Trial link: https://design_the_game.circle.so/join?invitation_token=d441047cd5b673946faf7969ab7a9d57783edb9e-93cd6c30-a732-4130-a237-188adc5ba2c6Ballyhoura Strength & Socialise Class for rural men [Charleville GAA] |  [Starting April 9th 2025]  No fancy gear needed—just bring yourself!Let’s get moving together—because staying strong means staying independent. Would you or someone you know benefit? Fill out the Google form below or send it to people you think who has a male family member or friend that would benefit. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScuIIQjaRHtGmN2y6GB3daMVQU9cJ4mevqdf_3Y_VOQPPbwkQ/viewform?usp=dialogOr Contact Aoife at 0862063411 or email at [email protected]

Three questions answered in a little bit of depth. Would Hyrox or Crossfit benefit GAA performance? Are Drink Bans beneficial for GAA teams? How can S&Cs strike a balance between physical prep and hurling skills?If you want to book in for a consultation call or have questions answered on the podcast: [email protected]

The Future Leaders is the largest Transition Year programme in Ireland. It started when Eoghan Hanley (the man behind a movement) wanted to involve a whole TY Year group in a tournament for 1st and 2nd Year hurlers. 10 years later and 10s of thousands of students have developed invaluable skills in nutrition, journalism, photography, coaching, refereeing, performance analysis, wellbeing and so much more.Hear how it all started, some of the main highlights and plans for future evolution.https://www.instagram.com/gaafutureleader/

Having worked with countless players and teams across ages and levels, 4 issues or mistakes keep cropping up. Today I discuss what they are, implications of each one and, most importantly, how we can try to prevent them from happening.If you'd like any nutrition questions answered or want to schedule a nutrition consultancy call, just email [email protected]

Dr Emma Cowley is a post-doctoral researcher at TUS focusing on closing the gender data gap. She has authored numerous academic publications looking at the gap in sport science research between males and females. Her current role seeks to close that gap and increase the amount of sport science research conducted, specifically on the island of Ireland.

Following a query from a coach during the week I discussed how we can use Self Determination Theory in our coaching.SDT is one of the most popular theories of motivation and can be used to enhance both intrinsic motivation and wellbeing in our players.This podcast explains what SDT is and gives examples of how we can utilise it in our coaching.

Karol Dillon is an experienced Gaelic Football coach from Kerry and coming near the end of his PhD studies looking at bilateral, or two-sided, Gaelic Footballers.We look at:- how common it is to truly use both sides in Gaelic Football or LGFA- How coaches and parents can support the development of both sides- The importance of environment and motivation when trying develop the weaker or non-dominant side in players- Why it's never too late to improve your weaker side

We’re talking speed!Due to a number of requests to discuss speed development, I’m going through a few guiding principles I use.I’m planning a number of videos to help show you useful drills, exercises and sample sessions over the next few months, but until then you can use the 8 commandments I outline in this episode.If you want something a little more immediate, then you can get my 6 week Speed Programme here: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/need-for-speed-6-week-programme

Joined by friend of the show, Damien O'Sullivan, we look a bit deeper at some considerations for the new Gaelic Football rules.- Some outputs from club games- Variety of approaches from different teams- What effects have players been reporting?- Value of Zone 2?- Considerations for the 3 v 3

The Gaelic Football landscape is evolving with new rules set for 2025, and players, coaches, and teams need to adapt smartly. In this episode, we break down what these changes mean for player fitness, game strategy, and training approaches. From new 1v1 scenarios to shifting speed demands, we’ve got all the insights you need to stay ahead. 🔥 Key Insights Covered: 1️⃣ Start the Season the Right Way: Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your players need to be fitter straight out of the gate just because the game is evolving. Your starting point should remain the same as previous years — no need to burn out athletes early on with unrealistic expectations. 2️⃣ Game-Based Training is King: Forget loading players up with both game sessions and endless top-up runs. Use smart, game-based activities to naturally develop high-speed running demands. Training games provide a better, more seamless stimulus while helping players refine tactical skills simultaneously. 💡 Additional Takeaways: Expect more explosive accelerations, decelerations, and agile movements in the forward line. Past data insights: Learn from sprint patterns, distance covered by position, and the impact of match outcomes. Practical preparation tips: Develop lower-body strength, master decelerations, and incorporate agility drills carefully. Gradually build up 1v1 scenarios to manage load on knees and hips, especially for older players. 🎙 Why This Episode Matters: Get expert strategies for managing the physical and tactical demands of the new game rules without compromising player wellbeing. The key? Train smarter, not harder. Listen now to keep your team competitive and well-prepared for the 2025 season. Let the game-based conditioning be your greatest weapon!

In this episode, we unpack the critical question: should female adolescents participate in strength and conditioning (S&C) programs? Based on a discussion with sports coaching students, this discussion provides valuable insights into the considerations, benefits, and best practices for youth S&C. We explore: The Big Question: Should female adolescents do S&C? (Spoiler: yes—with caveats!) Key Considerations: Benefits for Female Athletes: We also break down sample S&C sessions tailored for adolescents, including exercises for both gym and on-pitch settings. You’ll hear about foundational movement patterns (squat, hinge, push, pull, brace), plyometric exercises, and whether to use bodyweight or weights. Tune in to learn how to set young athletes up for long-term success by building proper technique, reducing injury risk, and developing physical literacy!

How do you design a gym programme that hits all the main things required to benefit performance on the field? Does a gym programme or session look different it’s for an individual or a group working together? Is it possible to individualise a gym programme for a full panel of players? Find out the answers to all of the above in this episode. Find our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@fhsperformance8651

We discuss a few bits of guidance when it comes to planning your preseason.Find the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@fhsperformance8651Recent Article on MAS Based training: https://fhsperformance.com/2025/01/09/what-ive-learned-about-mas/Our Need For Speed 6 Week Programme: https://fhs-performance.kit.com/products/need-for-speed-6-week-programme

Introduction to the show.Host: Dr John Murphy, lecturer in Sports Management & Coaching at SETU Waterford.GAA Coach, S&C, NutritionistWill dive into the various principles underpinning GAA Coaching acorss, S&C, Nutrition, Speed, Recovery, Analysis etc.Follow me on @fhsperformance across social mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fhsperformance/Twitter: https://x.com/fhsperformanceEmail: [email protected]