Frank Diamond- Leaving the priesthood and winning an All-Ireland

Frank Diamond- Leaving the priesthood and winning an All-Ireland

Author: BBC Radio Ulster June 3, 2026 Duration: 52:07

Winning an All-Ireland club with Lavey, captain of all his school teams, Sigerson leader at Maynooth and at one stage the only Priest, playing Gaelic Football. Times have changed, but at 40 "Fr Frank" decided the priesthood wasn't for him anymore. A big call, He now works for mental health charity ALPS, connecting with young people is his thing. Dromantine retreat outside Newry was the spot where Frank connected with young people, perhaps first, leaving a lasting impression. He spent most of his ministry in Africa, with some of the world’s poorest people. But, with guitar in hand and singing his favourite Christy Moore songs, Africa became home. Malaria almost killed him, more than once- but he kept going back. Life has moved in a different direction. Frank now has two daughters. Carina is six, Laoise is 11. Laoise has Down syndrome and brings "absolute joy to my life and everyone around her" This is his story, a nomadic existence and still making a difference.


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
Tommy Walsh. Kerry in the blood. Football, life and loss [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:19
When Tommy Walsh burst onto the Kerry scene, he was the talk of the country. A similar trajectory to the David Clifford journey in those early days. Talented, physically developed and a year after playing in an All-Irela…
War in Killarney, Cork, Tyrone & Galway through. Tailteann Cup [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:39
Kerry 0-16 Donegal 2-20. Where do we start? Oisin believes the GAA have backed themselves into a corner with Ger Brennan, and Jim McGuinness will face a suspension. He doesn’t believe David Clifford should have been sent…
Mikey Sheehy- the greatest goalscorer in Kerry football. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:17
He's hit the net more than any Kerry player in history. His accolades are outstanding. Clifford is chasing him down, but hasn't caught him yet. With club and County, Mikey Sheehy achieved it all. One of the greatest Gael…