Tommy Walsh. Kerry in the blood. Football, life and loss

Tommy Walsh. Kerry in the blood. Football, life and loss

Author: BBC Radio Ulster May 26, 2026 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-Ireland minor final, he was with the seniors and Kerry won Sam Maguire. In 2008 there was an All-Ireland final against Tyrone "The Twin Towers of Donaghy & Walsh." The Kerins O'Rahilly's clubman, left Ireland for a career in the AFL. First with St Kilda, then Sydney Swans. Walsh returned in 2015 and finished with three Munster titles, two All-Ireland's and lifted Sam Maguire with his brother Barry-John. Tommy's father Seán Walsh is the holder of seven All-Ireland medals. It's in the blood. Life after football has generally been good. He still resembles the big Russian out of the film Rocky IV “I get that a bit.” He's married to Dawn, they’ve a beautiful young daughter but in September 2025 their lives were hit hard. Tommy and Dawn lost twin boys and it's been a tough journey since. Blessed with good families and friends, Tommy is moving forward and comes across spectacularly well in this podcast. Coaching might be down the line, but for now it's enjoying life as best he can and reflecting on a successful career. Sport transported him to Australia, but "My mind was always in Kerry" The magnificent Tommy Walsh on the GAA Social


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: 50

The GAA Social
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