Ballyhale Shamrocks star player TJ Reid has capped a great year by being named captain of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling team for 2010.
The 22-year-old is a pure gentleman with fantastic skill and maturity beyond his years. TJ spoke to the Kilkenny Advertiser about really having to think about the decision and how he almost turned it down.
“When I was told I was given the captaincy for the senior team I really had to take time out to consider it," he said. "I know most people would jump at the chance but I know how much work and commitment goes into the role and I wanted to make sure I was the right person for the job.
"I spoke to my family at great length about taking the role," he said. "I also called up Henry [Shefflin], Cha [Fitzpatrick], Jackie [Tyrrell] and Tommy [Walsh] who doled out brilliant advice to me. As I’m presently a sub with the seniors it has become even more important for me to now be part of the starting line up. I don’t want to be the captain on the sub bench. I want to be a leader on the field. Don’t get me wrong it was the greatest honour for me to be chosen and for my family- who wouldn’t want this.”
TJ picked up his first hurley at the age of three. Like all young Ballyhale boys he was rarely seen without it.
“When you look around Ballyhale and the children most of them will be pucking around with a hurley," he said. "That was me and my entire family. It’s the same with the Fennellys, Fitzpatricks and the many families in the area. Hurling is the most fun a child can have."
While his club is everything to him TJ understands the importance of being part of the Kilkenny senior hurling panel.
“At present this is the greatest hurling panel ever," said Reid. "We've achieved greatness and will hopefully continue to do so. Being under management like Brian Cody, and the selectors, county board, it is totally professional and we work really hard to continue to be the best."
While some players would change aspects of the game TJ wouldn’t change a thing “This is the best we’ve ever had it, I love everything about the game I wouldn’t change a thing."
TJ has some sound advice for children looking to some day play for their county team. “Don’t give up, even when you’re given out to, keep your head up at all times, persevere and keep going. Hurling stars weren’t created overnight- they worked really hard and kept going even when it was tough — and that’s the secret.”
The hurley-maker will be assisted by his brother Eoin who is vice captain of the senior team for the 2010 season.
“Eoin is always there for me, as is my whole family, but having Eoin there to turn to if there’s any pressure or if I need advice is great," he said. "Family is so important in sport and the team also become your family. This season I would love to be lifting the Liam McCarthy Cup like my fellow players before me. My New Year’s plan is to make the starting team and to make my club and county proud."
