23 July 2009
Antrim - v - Kerry
Physical - v - Mental
Reaching peak physical fitness demands discipline and dedication and is best done within a group of competing and like minded individuals. By contrast mental fitness can be a more difficult and personal journey and of necessity must be done to a much greater extent on an individual basis. Antrim senior footballers faced the might of Tyrone, whilst in an ideal state of physical fitness with an abundance of footballing skills and natural talent to boot. But for some the determination to exert matching mental strength and exude self confidence, on the field of play from outset, simply went pear-shaped. Fears and self doubts must be shut out at all time, replaced by a total focus of ‘I can and I will’.
Loss of nerve is not uncommon; it happens from time to time, more especially on such big occasions, as was last Sunday in Clones. However, this hic up is and should be, assigned to the history bin with yet another hard lesson learned in consequence. A number of Antrim players, by contrast, were not affected by the occasion; some others soon regained their composure and positivity and were able to contribute to a valiant and courageous challenge. It was too little too late. The lesson is to focus totally on the job at hand – nothing else.
The upcoming match against Kerry has to be different; every player must be resolute in his own mind, focused from outset; there can be no room for such mental freezing or easing into the game. Antrim players can and must take heart from each other, led by those who wade in from the throw in, armed with a winning mindset. Antrim Senior Footballers are at their best when in full flight on the field; some players can and will be awesome; all others must be good on the day. All have worked hard to bring about very significant and positive changes all around; this is in fact the best Antrim senior football has been in many generations; believe that, for it is true.
Antrim can and must beat Kerry – no more nerves – no excuses- no if only regrets. Go at them, as with Tyrone in the second half, but significantly, go at them with total conviction and absolute determination from outset. Nothing short of an outstanding display of fast skilled football, attendant with an arrogant possessory attitude, of ‘its my ……n ball’, will stymie Kerry. The kingdom footballers are not in the business of being considerate or making friends when a ball is in play. They expect you to get out of the way for them; don’t, under any circumstances – face them and beat them.
Antrim fans are now fully behind our senior football team. Players are forgiven for being caught out by the big occasion last week and heartily applauded for their efforts However, you won’t be easily forgiven for any evidence of lack of courage this week, letting down those others, who gave and give their all; hard but true. This door leads to Croke Park; Kerry men will expect to brush you aside and close you out - take it off its hinges if need be, but open it wide. Shake hands, smile, forget and forgive – but only afterwards. Look what is at stake; respect and admiration from Gaa fans, for life.
Lawrence Smyth County PRO.
