By Cian O'Connell

It has been a year of splendid scores, success, and silverware for Con O'Callaghan.

Regardless of the code or grade O'Callaghan was a key figure in the blood red of Cuala or sky blue of Dublin. Dean Rock isn't surprised by the fact that his inter-county colleague has flared to national prominence. "Con is one of these guys that if he tried anything I'd say he'd be good at it," Rock remarked at Wednesday's GAA Future Leader launch at Croke Park.

"Con has worked extremely hard on his game. Although he's an extremely talented young man he's had to work at that. I'm sure there's lots of Con O'Callaghans around the country, whether they're 10 or 12 years of age, but he worked really hard at his game and he's getting all the rewards now and he's showcasing all his talents because of all the hard work that he's put down through the years."

That mixture of graft and craft is critical according to Rock. "Everyone can sit back and rest on their talent, but you've got to get out there and work as hard as you can," Rock admits.

"I've witnessed it at first hand, whether it's at the gym on or the pitch, he's a guy that applies himself day in day out and if you can do that you can do what Con O'Callaghan is doing.

"It's brilliant for him. Hopefully he can have a bit of a break over the Christmas and come back and win another All-Ireland club title with Cuala."

The desire to deliver for Dublin is hugely important to those involved in Jim Gavin's decorated panel. "I suppose that's one of the traits or characteristics that associates most of the guys on the Dublin team," Rock remarks.

"They'd be very honest and humble. Con is no different. Con is the same as myself or any of the lads, just wanting to go out to represent Dublin and their club and do as best they can.

"There would certainly be no ego involved or gloating or anything like that. It's an amateur game and we love what we do. We understand we make a lot of people happy in terms of what we do as well. He's a very talented young man."