For 16 years, Michael Darragh MacAuley and Declan O’Mahoney have been the midfield pair for Ballyboden St Enda’s.
The Dublin star reveals the statistic proudly. With a smile on his face he reflects, but he’s more than happy to be living in the now.
Uncertainty surrounds all walks of life in Ireland this weather but MacAuley takes things in his stride. It would appear very difficult indeed, to get under this man’s skin.
It’s always a different, and enjoyable experience to interview the charismatic 34-year-old who chirps his way through press duties with a trademark wit and ease. Whereas many players shut down at the awkward question, such as the one he was asked on Monday as to whether the Dublin footballers were back training, MacAuley seizes the opportunity.
“Everyone thinks we are training 24/7. We have no secret underground layers that we meet up for kickarounds. No gossip. Or else if they are doing it, I am not getting told about it anyway.”
As for the time being, he’s embracing the freedom that comes with the unfamiliar and flexible calendar.
“I think it is a nice position for the players to be in. We aren’t getting weighed down with All Ireland finals or Championship in general. Lads are just working their ass off playing with the clubs. Then come what may be it in September or October,” he said ahead of the AIB’s Toughest summer documentary.
“It is a nice way to look at it. Usually, we are dipping in, playing a Championship match, coming out. Playing with intercounty. Trying to get this fit this fast. Trying to do well in this game, that game. It is just nice that we are just, this is it with the club. Intercounty at the moment is pretty irrelevant to us.
“I don’t know if I grew up with them (the Ballyboden lads) – I think half of them are half my age! Apart from Declan O’Mahony – we were trying to work it out… Obviously, there is Conal Keaney and a few lads still there. It’s a nice mix. I have had that extended run with them but it’s always nice to give it your all.”
“I suppose to be kicking ball, what we’re doing at the moment, spectators or not, it is enjoyable. I suppose with the odd case breaking out here and there, I went out to play a dead rubber game against Whitheall Colmcille last week and just went out to enjoy the game because I didn’t know when my next one was going to be. You just don’t know to be honest with you.
“It’s a nice way, a bit present and mindful about it, I hope Joe Brolly won’t think I’m a mindfulness guru now after saying that,” he laughs.
Life is good for Ballyboden St Enda’s. The reigning Leinster champions cruised through their group to set up another Dublin quarter final clash and MacAuley gave plenty of praise to team manager Anthony Rainbow, who he likens to Jim Gavin.
“Anthony is great. He is very good at what he does. I have heard rumours about his fitness regime himself. I heard he was able to get up and down all right
“I suppose it kind of speaks for itself, Ballyboden have been doing alright, last year with the Dublin championship and Leinster. Anthony obviously had a huge part to play in that. The lads are in good shape which is good. He’s hugely organised, little bit similar to Jim in that regard, they have that Army bit about them. Leave no stone unturned that kind of thing.”
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