Tom Daly

Tom Daly talks about the GAA in Cork past and present. He describes the central role played by the Association in his home of Aghabollogue where he grew up. Tom's father used to make hurleys and he describes the techniques, tools and raw materials used to get the job done. A cousin of his father's made sliotars and Tom also describes this process. Tom played with his local club and recalls going to games around the county and being taken to Croke Park for his first All-Ireland final. He is forever aware of those who came before him and talks in detail about the achievements of Cork GAA teams in the early days of the GAA. Things were not stable in Ireland during the World War II years and Tom recalls moving to Cork city and becoming involved with the Lees club. He was later involved with Bishopstown, and his work led him to take part in Inter-Firm competitions. He refereed for some time and talks about some of the scrapes he got into with players and mentors over certain decisions. Later he collected money at turnstiles during big games and went on to be the voice behind the public address system at Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Tom also gives his opinions on burning issues within the GAA in 2010 - respect for referees, rule changes, professionalism, competition from other codes and the prospect of using video evidence to assist referees. Tom has a very strong connection to the Association and his ability to recall people, places and events in great detail shed light on the nature of the GAA experience in Cork.