The Southern Star

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Paul Bouchier, Sarah Hayes and Paddy Lordan to discuss the rise of GAA in Hamilton High School, Bandon.Bouchier managed the U14B hurlers to county glory, Hayes took the U14A footballers to a county title while Lordan managed the school to a Simcox Cup win and a Corn Uí Mhuirí semi-final.It has been a year of glory for the school and the future looks bright too.Also on the show, we discuss the Cork footballers' loss to Meath in the All-Ireland SFC group stage.John Cleary's side have a big task on their hands in overcoming Kerry this Saturday in Supervalu Páirc Uí Choimh (4.45pm).The hurlers are in the Munster SHC final, albeit in unconvincing circumstances while the camogie time are flying after beating Limerick by 38 points in their first championship game of the year. All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are look ahead to Cork's All-Ireland SFC group 2 campaign.John Cleary's charges have been drawn in a group with Kerry, Meath and Roscommon with Cork facing Meath this Saturday in Páirc Tailteann, Navan (3pm).The Rebels came second in the group stage in 2023 and finished in third in 2024, progressing to the knockout stage both times.With Cork having beaten Meath twice in their last two games, this is a huge game to give either side the best possible start after Kerry beat Roscommon last weekend.Also on the show, with Camogie congress on Thursday, May 22nd, we discuss what is likely to happen and hoping the skorts-shorts controversy comes to an end.It wasn't a good weekend for the Cork hurlers last time out after losing heavily to Limerick.We talk about their upcoming crunch clash with Waterford in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by former Cork camogie player Sara Hayes as she gives her takes on the skorts and shorts controversy.Courcey Rovers' Hayes has won multiple All-Irelands with Cork and manages her club in the senior county championship.The story took another turn in the last week when Cork and Waterford had their Munster senior camogie final called off less than 20 hours before the scheduled throw-in time.A special congress will be held on May 22nd to decide if wearing shorts can be an option for camogie players or if wearing skorts will remain the compulsory protocol.Matthew Hurley spoke to Hayes on this week's show. All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Carbery GAA PRO Tim Buckley as he discusses the upcoming Carbery GAA centenary celebration of Carbery clubs.The division are celebrating their 100th year and will celebrate it in the Parkway Hotel in Dunmanway this Sunday, 11th May from 2pm to 5pm.All 26 clubs in the division will take part in the event as well as a parade of referees, guest speakers and celebrating Bandon junior team from 1975.Also on the show, we look back on Clonakilty Soccer winning the quadruple in the West Cork League, clinching the league title with a 4-2 win over Drinagh Rangers.This is the second year-in-a-row that Clon have achieved the big domestic double (premier division and Beamish Cup).We talk about the ongoing skorts and shorts debacle in camogie too as Cork have insisted that they will wear shorts for their Munster final against Waterford.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we back at Cork's heartbreaking Munster SFC semi-final defeat to Kerry as John Hayes reflects on an epic encounter.The Rebels went into this as underdogs but were agonisingly close to pulling off the unthinkable, losing 3-21 to 1-25 after extra-time.It was a game described by many as one of the games of the decade and despite the weather conditions, the supporters got their money's worth.Missed chances and controversial decisions were key in this game and the former Cork footballer breaks down the game.Also on the show, we look at other gaelic games stories, including the Cork hurlers dropping points away to Clare after being 12 points up at half-time.The Cork camogie team progressed to the Munster final while the Cork ladies footballers start their championship campaign this weekend.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we preview the Munster SFC semi-final between arch-rivals Cork and Kerry.The Rebels are going into this game on Saturday at 7pm in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh as underdogs.Kerry are league champions and are favourites for the All-Ireland SFC according to the bookmakers.John Cleary and his team have a massive task ahead of them but there are avenues there for a shock win.Kieran McCarthy and Matthew Hurley delve into the promotion of the game, potential matchups, ways Cork can trouble Kerry and much more.Also on the show, we discuss the Cork hurlers' opening championship game against Clare.There was mixed league final fortunes for inter-county teams last weekend as the Cork camogie team won against Galway but the LGFA team lost to the Westerners.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Cork senior hurler Shane Kingston, amid the hype around the hurling team at the moment.Kingston, who was speaking at the launch of the ‘eir for all' Poc Tapa Challenge, and his Cork teammates are just off the back of their first league title since 1998.They beat Tipperary 3-24 to 0-23 to give themselves the perfect preparation for the Munster SHC.Kingston spoke about how the players are concentrated on the job in hand and how tough the Munster series can be.Also on the show, we discuss the Cork footballers opening their championship campaign with a 0-24 to 0-13 win over Limerick.John Cleary's side will now face old rivals Kerry on Saturday week.The Cork LGFA and camogie teams are in league final action this weekend too as both Joe Carroll and Ger Manley's teams come up against Galway.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Bandon Grammar coach Philip Murphy after the school won the Munster schools junior cup recently.The Grammar won their first ever Munster schools cup as they beat 19-time winners Christian Brothers College 20-12.A school that has past pupils such as Jack Crowley, Gavin Coombes and Darran Sweetnam as well as coaches such as Régis Sonnes now have new heroes.What followed was Bandon RFC winning the Munster clubs U18.5 crown after they beat Old Christians 28-13, summing up a brilliant week for the townAlso on the show, we celebate another West Cork success as Skibbereen Community School claimed the All-Ireland ladies football senior A title after a 2-10 to 3-6 win over Loretto Cavan.It was a brilliant achievement by all in a school that fed off multiple clubs in the south-west.The Cork footballers are back in championship action this weekend as they visit Limerick while the Cork hurlers welcome Tipperary to Leeside as they hope to win a first Allianz League title since 1998. All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.ACAST LINKFollow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Irish hockey legend David Harte who is returning closer to home after a successful stint in the Netherlands.Harte was a key part of Team Ireland in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and has made over 200 appearances for the Emerald Isle.He spent 13 years on the books of SV Kampong over in the low country but is transferring to Belfast at the end of the season.Kieran McCarthy caught up with Harte to chat about his successful career so far.Also on the show, we look back at a successful weekend for Cork in gaelic games.The footballers beat Cavan to survive in Division 2 and most likely the Sam Maguire cup after a 0-21 to 0-19 win away.The hurlers, ladies footballers and camogie team all reached league finals by beating Galway, Clare and Tipperary respectively.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Clonakilty Soccer Club stalwart and goalkeeper Iain O'Driscoll after they won their second Beamish Cup in a row.Clon beat Ardfield in a thrilling Beamish Cup final 7-6 on penalties after a 3-3 draw after extra-time.Soccer Club are now going for the double-double after their league and cup double in 2024.Also on the show, we look back at the West Cork Rally as Keith Cronin reigned supreme again, albeit with a bit of controversy.The Cork footballers beat Louth to edge closer to safety while the inter-county hurlers, ladies footballers and camogie players are all one win away from a league final.We discuss Nicola Tuthill and Sacred Heart, Clonakilty's successes too.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by friend of the podcast Ger McCarthy as we look ahead to the Beamish Cup final between Clonakilty Soccer Club and Ardfield.The decider takes place in Turners Cross this Sunday at 12.30pm.Clon are looking to win their second Beamish Cup in a row while Ardfield are only competing in their first final since 2009.It is a real David v Golaith clash as Clon are second in the premier division while Ardfield sit second from bottom in the championship.Ger gives his big match prediction too.Also on the show, we look ahead to the Cork footballers' clash with Louth and the West Cork Rally as well as looking back the Cork hurlers' demolition of Clare and discussing rumours of Jack Crowley moving to Leicester Tigers.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Ardfield stalwart Peter Barrett as the Beamish Cup surprise packets face giants Drinagh Rangers in the semi-final on Sunday.After beating Dunmanway Town, Beara United and Spartak Mossgrove in their run to the last four, they have been the undoubted story of the competition and will hope that there is one more upset up their sleeve.The other semi-final sees Clonakilty Soccer Club face Bunratty United is a Skibbereen last four double-header.Also on the show, we discuss a disappointing 14-point defeat for the Cork footballers against Roscommon in the Allianz Football League Division 2.Promotion hopes are now up in smoke as survival in the division and the Sam Maguire cup become priority.All three other inter-county sides won as the hurlers, ladies footballers and camogie team beat Kilkenny, Roscommon and Dublin respectively.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we chat to University of Toledo athlete Laura Nicholson after she ran a new one-mile personal best (4:30.85) at the Boston College Eagle Elite meet recently.The former Bandon AC member smashed her previous PB by almost four seconds which saw her surge up to fourth in the all-time Irish women's indoor one-mile ranking.Nicholson, a native of Ballinascarthy, chatted to Kieran McCarthy this week.Also on the show, we look ahead to the triple-header coming up in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh this Saturday as the Cork footballers, hurlers and ladies footballers face Roscommon (7pm), Kilkenny (5pm) and Roscommon (3pm) respectively.John Cleary's footballers are off the back of a loss to Monaghan, the hurlers recently fell to Tipperary while it was positive in ladies football as Cork beat Monaghan.The Cork camogie team also beat Waterford to start their league campaign and face Dublin away next on Saturday at 2pm.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we chat to former Monaghan footballer Stephen Gollogly as we look ahead to Cork's clash away to the Ulster side, which is in Grattan Park, Inniskeen at 1.30pm on Sunday.Gollogly won two Ulster titles in his time playing for Monaghan (2013 and 2015) and now owns a company called Gaelic Tactics Board.John Cleary's Cork are off the back of a win at home to Westmeath (3-18 to 3-17) and will hope to make it three wins from four as they aim to strengthen their promotion charge.Monaghan come into this game on four points (the same as Cork) after losing to Roscommon last weekend (0-25 to 2-14).Also on the show, we look ahead to the other three Cork sides in action this weekend.The hurlers go to Thurles to play Tipperary on Saturday at 7.30pm, the LGFA team face Monaghan on Sunday at 2pm in Castleblayney while the Camogie team open their league campaign against Waterford in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday at 2pm.In local news, the Carbery U21 football championships was suspended this week after the Cork county board refused to grant the south-west division an extra week to finish off the championships.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we chat to the new Cork senior camogie captain Méabh Cahalane.Cahalane was speaking at the launch of the Very National Camogie Leagues for 2025 where she was honoured to go to the event as the Rebels' captain.She talks to us about getting advice from her dad (Cork football legend Niall), being part of a successful GAA family and the hopes for Ger Manley's team in 2025.Also on the show, we look ahead to the Cork footballers' home game against Westmeath this weekend, a game where John Cleary's side can't afford to slip up.We talk about the inclusion of Conor Cahalane on the football panel too, a story broken by The Southern Star last Friday.The Carbery U21A football championships kicked off as Bantry Blues, Castlehaven, Ibane Gaels and O'Donovan Rossa all progressed to the semi-finals.We also look ahead to the quarter-finals of the Beamish Cup as the local soccer tournament reaches its conclusion.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we chat to Barry O'Donovan and Guilherme Alencar about the recent success of the 4 Honor Bantry jiu-jitsu club.The club was only founded in January 2023 and recently came back from the European Championships in Portugal with three gold medals (won by Kawan Azeredo, Juliana Taparica and Mariana Ribeiro) and one bronze (Karel Bubnik).It was a first medal in the adult division for the club (nevermind four).They then won a further two gold medals at the Dublin Open last weekend in the form of Kawan Azeredo and Juan Barcellos.Back home, the club also does an outreach program where they do self-defence and jiu-jitsu classes in schools around West Cork.Club founder O'Donovan and coach Guilherme join us this week to talk about the recent highs and their beginnings.Also on the show, we discuss Cork's agonising one point defeat to Down (1-19 to 2-15) in Newry in the Allianz Football League Division 2.A late two pointer won it for the Ulster side, leaving John Cleary's team in fourth after two games.The hurlers played out a tight and tense draw with old foes Limerick (1-16 apiece) in Páirc Uí Chaoimh while the ladies footballers fell short to Galway in Tuam (2-8 to 0-12).Elsewhere, Jack Crowley impressed off the bench as Ireland beat England in the opening round of the 6 Nations.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we look back at the Cork footballers' win on the opening day of the Allianz Football League Division 2.John Cleary's side beat Meath by 2-19 to 0-21, winning their first Division 2 opening game in eight attempts.The Rebels face Down next in Newry (1pm on Sunday) and are looking up with positivity.The Hurlers also got on the winning trail after their 2-21 to 0-12 triumph over Wexford in Division 1A.They face Limerick next in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday at 7.30pm, live on the TG4 player and app.The Ladies Footballers' also won, beating Westmeath in the Lidl League Divison 2 by 3-12 to 0-5 with the returning Libby Coppinger bagging two goals.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.ACAST LINKFollow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we look back at the recent West Cork Sports Star Awards held in the Celtic Ross Hotel.It was no surprise to see Olympic legends Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy pick up the main award, Paul for the fourth time, Fintan got his third.Niall Cahalane (Hall of Fame), Clonakilty Soccer Club (Team of the Year), Goleen GAA (Special Achievement), Clonakilty RFC (Club of the Year) and Oran Brady (Paudie Palmer Youth Award) were also winners on the night.We reflect on each winners' achievements and hear from them after a special evening to celebrate the best of the west.Also coming up, we look ahead to the Cork footballers' opening Allianz National Football League game against Meath this Saturday.John Cleary's side are hoping to make a better start than in previous campaigns.The Cork Hurlers and Ladies Footballers are in league action too and we will look ahead to their games against Wexford and Westmeath respectively.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Sue Nicholson joins us to talk about West Cork Jesters.Nicholson chats about all their activities, events and opportunities going on at their Clubhouse in Durrus.She also delves into their fundraising efforts to get their 17 athletes to the Mixed Ability World Cup in Pamplona Spain in June 2025. They competed at the 2022 World Cup too and Sue talks about why it's so important that they achieve their fundraising goal and make sure they give every athlete and their career the opportunity to travel.Also this week, we look ahead to the West Cork Sports Star Awards for 2024, held on Saturday 18th in the Celtic Ross Hotel.We preview the different categories including the top prize which includes 15 nominees from a variety of sports.The first round of the Beamish Cup took place recently and we will review all the action from that as well as Munster's crucial European Champions Cup win over Saracens.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we look ahead to a new year of the Beamish Cup.It is a staple to the West Cork soccer calendar and nobody is more excited for the commencement than in Star HQ.Clonakilty Soccer Club hope to retain the cup they won in dramatic fashion in 2024, beating Drinagh Rangers 3-2 in the final.Drinagh themselves, who lost out on the league and cup last season, will hope to win their first Beamish Cup since 2018.Dunmanway Town, who have won three of the last five cups, will also be in the mix, as will Castletown Celtic and Togher Celtic.We preview what is going to be an exciting edition, starting with the first round.Elsewhere, we look at recently announced West Cork Sports Star award winners as we gear up to the awards on January 18th.There is still local involvement in provincial and national competitions as Hamilton High School Bandon compete in the knockout stage of Munster senior cup in rugby as well as the Corn Uí Mhuirí quarter finals.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are looking back at a memorable year in West Cork sport, hence why the end of year list has been increased from 10 to 20 places.2024 was one to remember for West Cork sporting fanatics between success at the Olympic Games in Paris where the Ballineen Bullet Phil Healy and Skibbereen rowers Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy in particular excelled, local GAA clubs winning county titles, Keith Cronin's Irish Tarmac Rally title and so much more.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieThis is the last Star Sport Podcast of 2024 – thank you to all of our loyal listeners for tuning in for another great year, and we are looking forward to coming back again in 2025. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Star Sport HQ.Subscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, up and coming GAA referee Shane Scanlon explains why he took up the whistle.The Newcestown native has taken charge of some big games in his young career including this year's Cork premier SHC final between Imokilly and Sarsfields.Scanlon chats about his career to date, the number of referees needed for club championships, respect for referees and the new rules for gaelic football, including those involving discipline.Also in the show, we reflect on three time olympic medalist Paul O'Donovan getting the RTÉ Sportsperson of the Year for the first time ever.It was also the first rowing representative to take home the individual award ever.Beara fell short in the U21A county football final while players from Rosscarbery, Bantry, Ballydehob and Glengarriff were in LGFA All Ireland final action last weekend.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we catch up with Macroom native Erika O'Shea after her Australian Football League Women's triumph with the North Melbourne Kangaroos. The Roos won the title against the 2023 victors, Brisbane Lions, in the final by 39-9 and went the whole season unbeaten, no team in the AFL men's or women's have done that before.O'Shea just finished her third season down under and at just 22 years of age, there is a lot more to come.She chats to Matthew Hurley this week about the whole AFLW experience and her aspirations for the future.Also in the show, we talk about the Allianz football and hurling league fixtures that were announced recently.John Cleary's Cork footballers face Meath at home first up while Pat Ryan's hurlers travel to Wexford at the end of January.The club county championship draws were made this week too and we discuss the groups presented to the West Cork clubs in football and hurling.Goleen came up short in the county junior B football final while the Beara U21s are in county final action this weekend coming.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we are joined by Goleen midfielder Matthew Sheehan as the Carbery junior B champions face into a county final against Douglas.The Mizen Peninsula club have already won two championship trophies (confined junior B and Carbery junior B titles) as well as a West Cork division 2 league win.Their county junior B final is in Pairc Uí Rinn this Sunday at 1pm as they hope to win a quadruple of trophies, a treble of championships and a double of county titles, all in one year.They beat Ballinhassig 2-12 to 1-13 after extra time in the semi final and are now on the edge of completing a fantastic 2024.Also in the show, we talk about the retirement of Clonakilty full back Thomas Clancy from the Cork senior football panel.Clancy becomes the sixth player to leave John Cleary's panel before the 2025 campaign (after John O'Rourke, Killian O'Hanlon, Steven Sherlock, Damien Gore and Kevin Flahive).There was disappointment for the O'Donovan Rossa LGFA side after their amazing journey ended at the hands of Galway's Annaghdown in the All Ireland intermediate semi final.Kilmacabea's season also finished after they lost out to Inniscarra in the county junior AFC semi final.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Kieran is joined by O'Donovan Rossa hurling trio Alan Foley, Flor Crowley and Rob Long.The club is celebrating 20 years after their Cork junior BHC victory in 2004.On November 14th, 2004, Crowley, who was captain of the team, collected the junior B cup in front of a huge Skibbereen following. Recently, 25 players from the county winning panel, as well as the entire management team, reunited to celebrate that ground-breaking season.The lads talk about the memories that they have from that year and the current state of play in Skibb hurling.From one team in the club to another, the O'Donovan Rossa LGFA team are in action again this weekend as they face Annaghdown in the All Ireland intermediate semi final.James O'Donovan's team are chasing a sixth championship title in a row after already winning two county's, two Munsters and one All Ireland.Kilmacabea are in county junior AFC semi final action as they take on Inniscarra while Goleen will be in the county junior BFC semi final against Ballinhassig.We also discuss Jack Crowley as Ireland take on Australia in their final rugby Autumn International plus we look at the recent goings on in the West Cork League in soccer.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Tom Savage from Three Red Kings joins us to discuss the current state of play involving Jack Crowley.The Bandon RFC graduate and Innishannon man has been in competition for the Irish number ten jersey for the past few weeks with Leinster players Ciaran Frawley and Sam Prendergast.Crowley played 58 minutes against New Zealand and 62 minutes against Argentina in Ireland's recent Autumn Internationals, scoring a combined 20 points, including a try against the South Americans.Ireland scored no points in the time Crowley was off the pitch during the two games.Savage talks to Kieran McCarthy about why Crowley has earned his right to retain his starting spot and his thoughts on the current form of the Irish team overall.In other news, Cork camogie received eight All Stars this week too, including Courcey Rovers star Saoirse McCarthy.Goleen are in junior B action against Ballinhassig and Beara U21s find themselves in a county final after they beat Valley Rovers.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, O'Donovan Rossa forward Kate O'Donovan chats after the Skibbereen club's Munster intermediate LGFA title win.Rossa beat St Ailbes from Limerick by 0-10 to 0-7 and produced a particularly impressive second half display.That's five championship titles in the last five for super Skibb, who have only lost one game in that time.O'Donovan talks about how the win has sunk in, the Skibbereen supporters, the influence of manager James O'Donovan and their upcoming All Ireland semi final.We will discuss the week's big talking points too.Castlehaven's year came to an end after their Munster SFC loss to Dr Crokes in Killarney, 1-15 to 1-8.A couple of injuries for the Haven to Damien Cahalane and Rory Maguire proved vital.The Clonakilty LGFA side lost narrowly to Waterford's Ballymacarbry after extra time.There was joy for Kilmacabea as they beat Douglas in the county junior AFC but Diarmuid O Mathunas remarkable season came to an end after their defeat to Ballinora.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Diarmuid O'Mathunas captain Jeremiah Hurley discusses their first Carbery junior AHC win in 14 years.The Castletownkenneigh club beat Ballinascarthy by 1-14 to 1-12 in Enniskeane to bring the Flyer Nyhan Cup back to Mathunas.Hurley talks about the emotion of the win, the support from the Mathunas' fans, balancing hurling and football and their upcoming county championship quarter final against Ballinora.Also on the show, we talk about four Cork football departures that happened this week.Carbery Rangers' John O'Rourke announced his inter-county retirement after 11 years on the Rebels' senior panel.Kilshannig man Killian O'Hanlon also retired while St Finbarrs' Steven Sherlock and Kilmacabea's Damien Gore are taking a year out.We will preview Castlehaven's AIB Munster club SFC quarter final against Dr Crokes this Sunday as Seanie Cahalane's men hope to retain the provincial crown.Also this weekend, O'Donovan Rossa's are in Munster intermediate LGFA final action against St Ailbes and Clonakilty face a Munster senior B LGFA final against Ballymacarbry.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @seanholland_15Produced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Castlehaven captain Mark Collins joins us on the show after their 0-16 to 0-11 win over Nemo Rangers, winning their second county premier SFC title in a row.They repeated the feat of 2012/2013, manager Seanie Cahalane captained the team 11 years ago and is now the winning manager.The Haven were full value for their win after outscoring Nemo by 0-9 to 0-3 in the second half.Collins talks about what the win means for the Haven, completing the two in a row and another possible Munster run.Also on the show, we talk about the Carbery junior AFC final where Kilmacabea reigned supreme over Diarmuid O Mathunas, 1-12 to 1-4.Mathunas have to go again for the divisional hurling decider this weekend as they face Ballinascarthy in a replay.Goleen made headlines too with their junior B victory over Clann na Gael and having won the confined junior B county earlier in the year, they are on a role.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @seanholland_15Produced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, former Cork footballer and Southern Star Sports columnist John Hayes previews the county premier SFC final between Castlehaven and Nemo Rangers, on Sunday in Supervalu Pairc Ui Chaoimh at 3.30pm.The Haven are going for their second Andy Scannell Cup in a row and face a Nemo side chasing their first crown since 2022.The sides battled it out in the final in 2023 too as the Haven won out by 0-11 to 0-9.We discuss where the game could be won and lost, Castlehaven's experience, kickouts and overall key aspects to the big game.Hayes also gives his final prediction.There are other divisional finals taking place too and we look back at the drawn Carbery junior AHC final between Ballinascarthy and Diarmuid O Mathunas (0-13 apiece).The Carbery junior AFC final is on the horizon too as Kilmacabea, after their semi final win against St Mary's last weekend, take on Mathunas on Saturday in Dunmanway at 7.30pm.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @seanholland_15Produced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Kieran chats to O'Donovan Rossa captain Laura O'Mahony after the Skibb side's county intermediate LGFA triumph over Naomh Aban, 0-12 to 1-8.O'Mahony talks about the rise of the club from being in junior C in 2018 to competing in Senior in 2025.Rossa won the junior Cork, Munster and All Ireland crowns in 2023 and have won 19 of their last 20 championship games.It is a fairytale story for Skibb and O'Mahony is one of the key players forefronting their rise.We also look at the Cork county championship semi finals as Castlehaven cemented their premier SFC favourites tag by beating St Finbarrs 0-18 to 0-14.Seanie Cahalane's team will face Nemo Rangers in the final after the city side saw off Mallow.There was disappointment for Dohenys (senior A), Adrigole and Gabriel Rangers (both intermediate A) as their seasons came to an end at the hands of Knocknagree, Boherbue and Glanmire.We'll also discuss the current state of play in the Carbery junior AFC as well as previewing the Carbery junior AHC final between Diarmuid O Mathunas and Ballinascarthy.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01, @seanholland_15 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, Kieran McCarthy chats to Cork Camogie and Courcey Rovers star Saoirse McCarthy.McCarthy was in Croke Park this week for the Launch of Eir as an Official Telco partner of the Camogie Association and three year sponsor of the U16 Camogie All Ireland Championship.She talks about how Camogie brings people together, adapting to Dublin life and Cork's quest for the O'Duffy Cup three in a row in 2025.We also look at the Cork county championship action as Clonakilty exited the Cork premier SFC in dramatic fashion, losing on penalties for Nemo Rangers.There was positivity for Gabriel Rangers however as they produced the shock in overcoming Mitchelstown.This weekend, Castlehaven, Dohenys, Gabriels and Adrigole are all in semi final action and we will look forward to those last four encounters.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01, @seanholland_15 and @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieDON'T MENTION THIS IN CMSSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ON THIS week's podcast, we chat to Ballinascarthy forward Brian O'Donovan ahead of their Carbery junior AHC semi final against St James on Sunday at 2.30pm in Enniskeane.O'Donovan has been in two of the last three Southern Star Team of the Week's across hurling and football.He is one of the most lethal finishers in the Carbery championship and one of Bal's marksmen in both codes.We also look at the Cork county championship action and indeed disruption.The big story this week was the postponement of big football games last Sunday due to a Met Eireann orange weather warning, including Nemo Rangers v Clonakilty and Carbery Rangers v Eire Og in the premier SFC.Dohenys progressed to the semi final of the senior AFC after their win over Cill na Martra but there was disappointment for Bantry Blues, Ilen Rovers, Urhan and St James.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on X: @matt_hurley01 and @seanholland_15 Produced by Matthew Hurley***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community. For more visit www.accesscu.ieSubscribe to The Southern Star's digital edition for less than €2 per week via https://subscribe.southernstar.ie/plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BEARA'S Billy Murphy has a new role as their new schools coach and how they can develop as a division.He talks to Kieran McCarthy on this week's podcast.We also cover a big weekend of county football action as Clonakilty, Carbery Rangers, Dohenys and Bantry Blues.The current state of play in the Carbery junior A championships will be talked about too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PAUL O'DONOVAN was recently awarded for his incredible 2024 with a monthly West Cork Sports Star award, and we took the time to catch up with him in a year that has gone pretty well, it's fair to say.A second Olympic gold medal, a seventh World Rowing championship, starting work as a doctor – it's been a busy year.Thousands flocked to see O'Donovan and the other Skibbereen rowers at a massive homecoming event at the start of September – on this week's podcast, he tells us about why he loves West Cork, what the local recognition means to him, and how 2024 hasn't been a bad year overall.We also cover a very busy weekend of county and local football, taking you through each grade as we get ready for relegation play-offs and quarter finals in a couple of weeks time.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @matt_hurley01Produced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS week's podcast is a preview special as we look ahead to this weekend's Cork football championship matches as the final round of the group stage takes place.It looks set to be an exciting couple of days of football as there is still plenty to be decided across the different divisions, with a number of West Cork clubs looking to either qualify for the next round or avoid the dreaded relegation playoff.In Premier Senior, Castlehaven and Carbery Rangers clash in a West Cork derby. Ross know they will need a win to get into the next round, while Castlehaven are already through. Clonakilty are also in action and know a win over St Michaels will qualify them.Newcestown are in a funny position ahead of the weekend, where they could potentially lose and qualify or win and not qualify. They could finish anywhere from 1st to 4th in their group – one to watch this weekend.West Cork has lots of teams in action this weekend, and we take you through the permutations for each one on this week's Star Sport Podcast.We also hear about an exciting charity event taking place this October, and look back at last weekend's hurling action as well.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @seanholland_15Produced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PAUL O'Donovan might have chosen to take some time off after winning his third Olympic – and second gold – medal in Paris during the summer. He would have been well within his rights to rest, recover and let everything sink in.Instead, he travelled to Canada just a couple of weeks later and won his seventh World Rowing title. He also started working as a doctor in the interim.His recent achievements, along with his European and national titles got us thinking, at Star Sport HQ, is Paul O'Donovan the greatest Irish sportsperson of all time?There are plenty of contenders to the title: Roy Keane, Katie Taylor, Henry Shefflin to name but a few.O'Donovan has dominated a sport like no other Irish person has, and has raised the profile of a sport in a way perhaps only Katie Taylor can match.We're obviously biased down here in West Cork, but spoke about why he just might be Ireland's greatest sportsperson of all time on this week's podcast.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.Paul O'Donovan's medal haul – the highlightsOlympicsGold medal (Lightweight double sculls, Tokyo 2020)Gold Medal (Lightweight double sculls, Paris 2024)Silver medal (Lightweight double sculls, Rio de Janeiro 2016)World RowingO'Donovan has seven World titles, four in the double (2018, '19, '22 and '23) and now three in the single (2016, '17 and '24).Olympic rowers' homecomingPaul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy will be joined by thousands of fans, who are expected to descend on Skibbereen this Sunday afternoon for the homecoming thatwill celebrate the incredible exploits of Skibbereen Rowing Club's Olympians at the Paris Games.For the second Olympics in a row, four Skibb rowers – Paul O'Donovan, Fintan McCarthy, Emily Hegarty and Aoife Casey – flew the West Cork flag on the world stage, and again they wowed.Olympic champs Paul and Fintan won back-to-back gold medals with their victory in the lightweight men's double in Paris, Aoife finished fifth in the lightweight women's double sculls and Tokyo bronze medallist Emily was part of the Irish women's four that won the B final.Since then, Paul has added a seventh World title to his collection with his latest success at the World Rowing Championships last weekend adding another reason to celebrate this Sunday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CELEBRATIONS raged across Cork last week as the All-Ireland winning senior camogie team returned from Dublin with a second O'Duffy Cup in as many years.The Rebels' reign is well underway. That's now back-to-back All-Ireland senior camogie titles. With Cork also winning the All-Ireland intermediate crown, the first leg of the double, at Croke Park last week.Courcey Rovers stars Fiona Keating and Saoirse McCarthy played important roles in this year's triumph, and join the podcast this week to chat about the win, camogie in West Cork and the difference in feeling between the first and second titles.Elsewhere, we look at a busy weekend of club championship action, with defending premier senior champions Castlehaven in good form, while Carbery Rangers fought back from six points down to salvage a draw against rivals Clonakilty.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @seanholland_15Produced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PHIL Healy is the special guest on a special episode of the Star Sport Podcast, as The Ballineen Bullet joins Kieran McCarthy to reflect on a whirlwind couple of weeks at the Paris Olympics.Phil was welcomed home to the twin villages of Ballineen and Enniskeane in style last week, as she was paraded through the streets in a vintage Rolls Royce!She looks back on an incredible performance at Paris 2024, where the Irish women's 4x400m relay team came fourth in the final, just missing out on a medal place.We chat about the Paris experience, getting a hero's welcome at home and how the whole experience has lit a fire in Phil ahead of a busy 2025.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PHIL Healy ran an incredible race last Saturday night, clocking a time of 50.94 in the women's 4x400m relay final to help get Ireland to within eighteen hundredths of an historic bronze medal.It was an emotional race for Phil and her teammates, who were in tears afterwards, wondering what could have been.Now that the dust has settled, we can look back at what was one of the most memorable races involving Irish athletes ever – one that will live on long in the memories of those watching at home.We chat about the magnitude of Phil's achievements in Paris, the incredible performances from West Cork athletes across the board and reflect on a really fun couple of weeks.It's not over though, as there will be a homecoming for Phil in Ballineen and Enniskeane this Thursday night and we also have the rowers' homecoming to look forward to on September 1st!Elsewhere, Cork retained the All-Ireland senior camogie championship with a narrow victory over Galway, coming out on top by 1-16 to 16 points. Ger Manley's side had plenty of West Cork links and we look at their achievements in a season where they felt like they had a target on their back.Club football is also back! We reflect on the first round of opening games before looking ahead to some big clashes across the divisions this weekend.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PHIL Healy is a two-time Olympic finalist!The Ballineen Bullet along with Sophie Becker, Kelly McGrory, and Sharlene Mawdsley qualified in third position in heat two of the 4x400m women's relay to qualify automatically for the final. The Irish quartet ran a fantastic race, just finishing marginally behind Jamacia and the Netherlands with a time of 3:25.05.Becker led the team off with a 50.9, with Healy keeping Ireland in front from lane eight with a 51.9. McGrory ran a 52.6 to keep Ireland in touch, and Mawdsley ran a blistering 49.6 split to send Ireland into the final.The final will take place on Saturday at 8.14pm.Star sports editor Kieran McCarthy and digital manager Dylan Mangan react to a brilliant performance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WE have a very special treat for Southern Star fans as we caught up with two-time Olympic gold medallist Fintan McCarthy to chat about his experiences at the Paris Games.One-half of the dominant Irish lightweight men's double alongside Paul O'Donovan, Fintan reflects on the A final, the build-up, sharing the moment with his family and friends, and the celebrations in Paris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They only went and did it! Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy are Olympic champions once again following victory in the men's lightweight double sculls final this morning.It's a massive achievement for the Skibbereen pair, who will go down in the history books as some of Ireland's greatest-ever athletes.Paul O'Donovan is now the only Irish person to medal at three separate Games – Silver in Rio, Gold in Tokyo and Gold again in Paris. History.Fintan McCarthy becomes only the fifth Irish athlete to medal at two separate games.On this episode of the Star Sport Podcast, Sports editor Kieran McCarthy and digital manager Dylan Mangan react to an amazing day for Skibbereen, West Cork, Ireland and beyond!All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SKIBBEREEN will have three rowers competing in Olympic finals on Friday morning after Paul O'Donovan, Fintan McCarthy and Aoife Casey – with Rochestown's Mags Cremen – all qualified after impressive performances in their semi-finals.On today's podcast we look back on an exciting morning for West Cork, Cork and Ireland as Star Sports editor Kieran McCarthy reports from outside Skibbereen Rowing Club on the River Ilen, where it all began.O'Donovan and McCarthy qualified in style, winning their semi-final ahead of second seeds Switzerland, and will be gunning for gold at 11.02am on Friday.Casey and Cremen are also in contention now for a medal, with bronze a real possibility.Exciting times in West Cork!All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SKIBBEREEN rowers are heading into one of the biggest weeks of their sporting career, as competition at the Olympics hots up.All four rowers from West Cork were out in action on Sunday, with Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy dominating their heat to qualify straight into the men's lightweight double sculls semi-final on Wednesday morning.We chat about their performance and confident demeanour as the pair look like they are in a great spot for the rest of the week.The path to the final is not as straight-forward for Emily Hegarty and the Irish women's four who finished third in their heat, which means they need a repechage race to make a semi-final. Their repechage takes place on Tuesday morning at 10.30am.Aoife Casey, alongside Rochestown woman Mags Cremen also finished third in their heat on Sunday, but were back out again early on Monday morning to win their repechage and set up a semi-final on Wednesday morning.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THERE are four rowers from West Cork heading to the Paris Olympics – Paul O'Donovan, Fintan McCarthy, Aoife Casey and Emily Hegarty.All four have come through Skibbereen Rowing Club, and all four are part of an Irish rowing team which is confident of bringing medals back from France later this summer.On this week's podcast, Star Sport editor Kieran McCarthy previews the action which gets underway this Saturday – with all four West Cork rowers on the water on Sunday.Aoife Casey will be out first in the heats of the lightweight women's double sculls, which begin at 11.30am, followed by Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy in the heats of the lightweight men's double, starting at 12 noon. Emily Hegarty and the Irish women's four will take to the water in their heat at 12.30pm.It's an exciting time to be a West Cork sport fan, and we're incredibly excited for this year's Olympic Games!Don't miss your free souvenir supplement and giant glossy poster in this week's Southern Star – out July 25th.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours. Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @kieranmcc_ssProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ALL roads lead to Croke Park on this week's Star Sport Podcast, as former Cork senior hurling manager John Meyler joins us to preview Sunday's All-Ireland hurling final between Cork and Clare.Cork are hoping to get their hands on the Liam McCarthy Cup for the first time in 19 years, but have a formidable Clare side in their way, who are themselves looking to win for the first time since the epic 2013 final where they beat...Cork.Meyler is feeling positive about the Rebels' chances this weekend, in what he thinks will be an extremely close and high-scoring game.We have plenty of build-up to the big game on Sunday in this week's Southern Star, which is in shops and online via our ePaper now.Cork's ladies footballers are also in action this weekend in their All-Ireland semi-final against Galway at 5pm on Saturday – a win would put Shane Ronayne's side into the final for the first time since 2020, with the teams left in this year's competition all relishing Dublin's absence at this stage.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GOLEEN captain Padraig Reidy was in great form, along with his teammates, this week as they ended a long wait for the county confined junior B football title with a victory over Ballyphehane in Páirc Uí Rinn on Saturday.The men from the West had lost four county finals in recent years and were determined not to let that number grow as they found the energy to get over the line in a banner day for the parish, beating the city side after extra time.Reidy joins us on this week's podcast to chat about the win, what it means for Goleen and the strong mentality it took to put those previous losses behind us.We're also looking back on Cork's brilliant win over Limerick in the All-Ireland SHC semi-final on Sunday. Star reporter Seán Holland was there as a fan and stood in Hill 16 to witness an incredible performance and well-earned win for the Rebels. He looks back on a great day out and talks about why Cork managed to get one over the Green Machine for the second time this year.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @seanholland_15Produced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

FORMER Cork footballer and Star columnist John Hayes joins the podcast this week to talk about Cork's loss to Louth in the All-Ireland preliminary quarter-final at the weekend.Hayes says he doesn't think he's 'ever been quite as annoyed' at a result as he was on Sunday, and breaks down where he thinks Cork went wrong, why they struggled to create chances against Louth's defensive system and what's next for manager John Cleary.We also take a look back at Cork's five year plan, released in 2019. It's fair to say none of the goals have been achieved to date.Elsewhere, five West Cork athletes and counting have been selected on Team Ireland for Olympic Games in Paris – Paul O'Donovan, Fintan McCarthy, Emily Hegarty, Aoife Casey and David Harte.With more set to be announced, we look forward to a busy summer for West Cork sport!All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EUROPEAN silver medallist Phil Healy – the Ballineen Bullet – joins us on this week's podcast to chat about her incredible achievements at the European Championships in Rome.Healy was part of the women's 4x400m team who thrilled the Irish crowd last week with a brilliant performance in the final, securing their silver medals with a new national record of 3:22:71.The West Cork woman ran the third leg of the final and was an influential part of the team throughout the championships.She joins us on the podcast to chat about intense racing, the support of the Irish crowd and how it felt when Sharlene Mawdsley crossed the line in second place.We're also taking a look back at a mixed weekend for Cork GAA, and a whole lot more.All this on this week's Star Sport Podcast. Watch above. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, by using the player below or by searching 'Southern Star Sport Podcast' wherever you get yours. Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NICOLA Tuthill is this week's podcast guest, fresh off the plane home from the European Championships in Rome.The Bandon hammer thrower – still just 20 years old – finished in ninth position at her first ever senior European Championships and joins us to chat about an amazing experience, beating her personal best in recent weeks and her future potential.We're also looking ahead to another big day out for both the Cork footballers and hurlers, with both teams in championship action this weekend in a double-header in Tullamore on Saturday.First up at 3pm in O'Connor Park are John Cleary's footballers, who know that a positive result against Tyrone in their final group game of the All-Ireland SFC could leave them top of the group and straight into a Croke Park quarter-final, avoiding the preliminary round. After that, it's the hurlers turn, as they face Offaly in the preliminary quarter-final of the All-Ireland SHC. A win would put them into a quarter-final against Dublin and a chance at making the semi-final for the first time since 2018.All this and more on this week's Star Sport Podcast.Follow our hosts on Twitter: @dyldonot & @KieranMcC_SSProduced by Dylan Mangan.***The Star Sport Podcast is brought to you in association with Access Credit Union.Access Credit Union - Where your bank really does matter. Choose the Credit Union, Choose Local, Choose Community.For more visit www.accesscu.ie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.