I was perched up on Level 7 in Croke - the press area located in the upper Hogan Stand - ahead of the 2022 All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship semi-final between Galway and Kilkenny. Among a cohort of national journalists, many of whom tend to drift in and out of the camogie scene, there was a usual air of passing interest.
For some, their fleeting interest begins around quarter-final time. You can almost feel they’re often only thinking about filing their match copy and moving on to the next assignment after another busy inter-county campaign.
But that day three years in late July was different. I found myself seated next to one of the more knowledgeable and esteemed observers of the sport. Our pre-match conversation centred on how dramatically camogie had evolved in recent years - not decades ago, but within the last three or four seasons.
Raising the bar
While I’m no old-timer, I vaguely remember the pre-1999 era of 12-a-side games on scaled-down pitches. But this journalist was pointing to a much more modern revolution: the transformation sparked by Cathal Murray’s appointment as Galway manager in 2018.
It can be easy, when you're embedded in one county’s scene, to develop a somewhat insular perspective. So, it was refreshing - validating, even - to hear an outsider offer such high praise for Murray’s influence. The consensus was clear - the Sarsfields clubman had not only elevated Galway but had helped drive the entire camogie landscape into uncharted territory.
Under Murray’s leadership, the game had grown in sophistication. Tactically, technically and professionally. He raised the bar for preparation, performance analysis and physical conditioning.
Galway’s slick stickwork and superior fitness had set a new benchmark, forcing rivals like Kilkenny to raise their standards. To their credit, Cats manager Brian Dowling and his team responded, claiming victory that day before later achieving success with St. Kieran’s College and leading Kildare to a Joe McDonagh Cup in a memorable upset last year in hurling.
Despite occasional speculation linking him with high profile roles in the men’s game or with Galway underage sides, Murray has remained committed to Galway camogie. This Sunday, he’ll lead the Tribeswomen into their fifth All-Ireland senior final under his watch, hoping to secure a third O’Duffy Cup since taking charge.
Among all four Gaelic codes, Galway camogie has been unquestionably the county’s most consistent performer in recent years. And there’s a certain quiet confidence that follows them. Before Murray’s tenure, the setup lacked stability. Now, the foundation feels solid. You know they’ll be there or thereabouts.
More than just silverware
Credit must also go to the county board for its boldness. They haven’t shied away from their own difficult decisions, including changes in sponsorship aimed at securing the best possible backing. Even if it meant walking away from longstanding partnerships. That’s a sign of ambition and bravery.
Galway Camogie’s public-facing operations also reflect this renewed professionalism. Their official website is sleek, informative and regularly updated with useful information. That’s thanks in no small part to PRO Sarah Gaughran’s hard work. Recently, a successful meet-and-greet event allowed young fans to connect with stars like Ailish O’Reilly and Ann-Marie Starr, both chasing a remarkable fourth All-Ireland medal. Building rapport for the game into the future and creating another feel good event.
Of course, not all of this is down to Murray alone. But his relentless attention to detail and hunger for improvement have undoubtedly helped elevate standards across the board. His current backroom team, listed at 18 strong for the semi-final, includes high-calibre coaches, a nutritionist and psychologist. Every detail is accounted for. No stone is left unturned.
Turning talent into triumph
Still, Murray isn’t a miracle worker. Galway have been blessed with a deep talent pool; he’s simply been excellent at harnessing it. Particularly given the fact that this is essentially the third team he’s assembled in just seven years after many great stalwarts have stepped aside.
While not everyone will agree with every single decision he’s made - particularly within his own locality - what’s never in doubt is his decisiveness. He hasn’t ducked the tough calls, and it’s that same conviction that’s brought him and his team back to another All-Ireland final.
Whether that’ll be enough to claim the silverware on offer at the weekend against a fantastic Cork outfit remains to be seen. However, win or lose, administrators in the county wouldn’t swap who they have in charge for anyone else and rightly so. His record speaks for itself.
And irrespective of the final outcome, Galway camogie will be hoping that their commander-in-chief will be taking up the option to extend his tenure into 2026 and beyond. There’ll be plenty of suitors if not.
