Eugene 'Nudie' Hughes. Living through setbacks

Eugene 'Nudie' Hughes. Living through setbacks

Author: BBC Radio Ulster February 18, 2025 Duration: 58:44

We all knew it was coming, but since Conor McManus retired the question has bubbled- who is the greatest Monaghan footballer? "Well I'd say Conor is greatest Monaghan finisher" it sets the tone of this brilliant insight into the great Nudie Hughes. He's a mural on the gable of the house he was reared, one of 14. All of them still living. Ulster championships, All-stars (in defence and attack) and an icon in Monaghan. In 2018 he was diagnosed with cancer- this week he begins a new treatment after a setback. There's no negativity here though, none. The positive mindset is authentic and real. Moving forward and living his best life. This is the life and times of the great Nudie Hughes (perhaps one of the two greatest footballers to play in Blue and white)


From the pitches and clubhouses across Ireland, The GAA Social captures the heartbeat of Gaelic Games. This BBC Radio Ulster podcast goes beyond the weekend's scores to explore the people and passions that define hurling and Gaelic football. Each episode sits down with the figures who shape the sport, from legendary players and sharp-tongued managers to the dedicated officials behind the scenes, weaving their personal stories into the larger tapestry of the GAA. Alongside these in-depth conversations, you'll find thoughtful pundit discussions that dig into the tactics, controversies, and sheer athleticism on display. It’s a space where the camaraderie, local rivalries, and community spirit of the games are given a voice. Tuning in offers more than analysis; it’s an auditory journey into the culture and characters that make these sports a way of life for so many. Whether you’re a lifelong follower or newly curious, this podcast connects you to the raw emotion and shared history etched into every match.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The GAA Social
Podcast Episodes
Hurling Final preview With Shane O'Donnell & Seamus Flanagan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:19
Recorded in front of 2000 people at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast, Shane O'Donnell and Seamus Flanagan preview the All-Ireland hurling final. Shane confirms his intention of staying on with Clare for another season- as…
Rory's Stories- Being Meath & big discussion on mental health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:32
Rory O'Connor has made a new career out of comedy. A fun project making sketches in a GAA world is now a job. The first half of this podcast deals with mental health. It's an area where Rory has experience. ADHD, a gambl…
Niall McDonnell- winning Leinster & being a goalkeeper [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:35
This is a different but hugely honest insight into goalkeeping. The picture of the summer sits in Niall's living room- a first Leinster championship in more than 60 years- his photo summed it up. He'd like changes. Four…
Joe Diver. Derry Midfielder. Alcoholic. Fighting back for life [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:23:45
This is a remarkable podcast. Joe Diver had the world at his feet. A beautiful wife, family, talented footballer, successful job and drinking a bottle of whiskey at 10am in the morning. Wild. Ultimately, alcoholism could…
The quarter-final preview & being a manager [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:47
Games reviewed and a look ahead to a wonderful weekend in Croke Park. The championship has burst into life. Poor Oisin though...