Donoughmore in full preparation for All-Ireland

Renowned in Cork for their professional approach,
the Mid Cork side have set the benchmark nationally
for clubs in relation to preparing for games, both
mentally and physically.

With coach Mossy Barrett at the helm, all systems
are go, prior to his teams fourth All-Ireland final,
in as many years.

“Things are going very good as it stands”, he said.
“Luckily we’ve nothing of major concern at present
and we’re just waiting for Sunday to arrive now”.

Only one injury affects the side with the 2001 All-Ireland
final ‘Player of the Match’, Ruth Ann Buckley, suffering
from a niggling hip injury, however hopes are high
for her to return to training tomorrow night, having
sought treatment. For the past fortnight the coaching
staff, have concentrated solely on fast ball work
rather than on physical fitness so as to improve
sharpness.

A friendly last Friday against the Waterford seniors
proved only too well Donoughmore are in flying form.
“We played exceptionally well, however we certainly
aren’t reading into the result due to the fact that
we’re at our peak at the moment while Waterford
are only just beginning their season.”

Mossy admitted the girls are concentrating more
on the mental side of Sundays game, against the
team they defeated in 2001 when they won their first
ever All-Ireland title. “Mentally we’re preparing
very much so. At the end of the day, that’s what
it all boils down to for us. We’ve no worries and
I feel the bigger the occasion the stronger the
girls play”.

With the throw in at 2pm in Birr, many would think
travelling up the night before would be in the best
interest of the team, however according to the coach,
this is always a last resort in his pre match plans.
“I think the girls are better off staying in their
own beds before such a big game. It’s part of our
routine and we don’t want to change that just for
the game that’s in it”.

The community are certainly getting behind the team
with bunting draped across countryside and as always
a huge contingent, of supporters are expected on
the day.