Tipperary hurler Padraic Maher believes Niall ‘Bressie’ Breslin could have made a significant impact on their season had he been brought in at an earlier stage of the year.
The Premier endured a disappointing season in the Munster championship after finishing with two defeats and no wins from their four fixtures.
Manager Michael Ryan has yet to confirm whether Breslin will be retained for next year but Maher shared his enthusiasm about the prospect of Breslin extending his stint with the county.
“He explained what his background was and he has gone through severe injuries in his career and that is what ruled him out of rugby,” Maher told Shane Stapleton on The Hurling Show.
“He’s done several iron mans and that kind of stuff. He’s using that kind of background but it came too late for us in the championship – the damage was done.
“We were chasing our tail after the start we had. But it would be interesting to see if he came in November or December of a year and see how you’d fare. But for us it came that bit too late.”
Niall Breslin in action for Leinster in 2003. Image: ©INPHO/Patrick Bolger
Maher also discussed the impact Breslin had on the squad as a whole and has backed the outspoken mental health advocate for his ability to bring the best out of people.
“He came on board half way through the Munster championship,” Maher added.
“Every team has these psychologists or lads talking about meditation – I think it’s more for the individual than it is for the team.
“It suits some lads and it doesn’t suit others. I know myself I’d rather be left to my own devices in the week leading up to a game and going through my own routine.
“But other lads like to talk to these guys to get them tuned in and tick all the right boxes. But he is all about mindfulness and relaxation.
“And thinking about the game when you’re supposed to and switching off when you’re not thinking about the game. It is for different guys. Some people like it others don’t.
“The younger lads may be left to their own devices – they have no baggage with them – they just want to go out and hurl.
“Whereas it could be the lad who’s 26 or 27 that may have doubts and his confidence may not be that high. He may be the one who talks to these guys.
“But each to their own. He was just in to help out Tony Og Regan and the lads and maybe change direction. He certainly wasn’t in singing for us anyway.”
James Hopper
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