Mickey Harte

Mickey Harte talks about a life spent immersed in the GAA. He describes growing up in Tyrone as a fan and developing as a football player. He lived in a tightly-knit community and the GAA was very important to those who were interested. Mickey went on to play for Tyrone and endured a number of painful defeats. In 1982 his club opted out of the Association for eight years; Mickey discusses the situation and the great things that were to come from it years later - phenomenal club success followed by groundbreaking victories as manager of the Tyrone minor, Under-21 and senior teams. Mickey observed and absorbed what was going on around him all his life, and this informed his management style which was built on principles of recognition, responsibility and respect. He provides insights into the dynamics of the GAA experience in North of Ireland and what it meant to win an All-Ireland senior football title for the first time. Tyrone football has not been untouched by tragedy, and Mickey talks about young players who lost their lives prematurely. He is also forthright in his opinions on what can be done to improve the association. Mickey's enthusiasm is boundless and the GAA has left an indelible stamp on his entire life experience.