A man that seems to be dominating GAA news at the moment is eight-time All-Star winner Colm Cooper, better known as 'The Gooch'. In The Independent alone, there has been six articles in the space of three days between the 17th and 20th of February, following his injury at last weekends All-Ireland club semi-final, which I think is absolute madness.
Nobody can deny that he is a gem of a player and a real champion but media coverage to this degree certainly would not be given to any other Kerry footballer. One would have to question whether this is right.
Cooper was in top form playing for his home club Dr. Crokes against Castlebar Mitchels when he suffered a ligament injury. It is expected that Cooper will miss the entire inter-county season for Kerry which is a big blow for the team. Is there still a chance for the Kerry team who appear to be so dependent on the great Gooch?
A lot of emphasis has been placed on the fact that Kerry are at a loss but I have to give sympathy to Cooper who is so passionate about the GAA and I'm sure is gutted at the injury but none of the articles give any quotes from the man himself. It has to be tough after a fantastic career, frustrating even.
Kerry's whole team tactics have to be shuffled due to the irreplaceable loss of Cooper. The media are suggesting a return for Paul Galvin who retired over two weeks ago. It doesn't seem likely to happen but it'd be a big boost for the team. Members of the Kerry team will have to step up to the mark.
I don't see any harm in this, in fact I think it's a great chance for minor players to showcase their skill.
A wreckless tackle from a Castlebar Mitchel player is the cause of Cooper's blow. One article suggested that the way in which players are blocking should be examined. It takes practice and skill but if it is dangerous the consequences are damaging, as Kerry have seen first hand.
The introduction of the black card in the GAA is targeted at dangerous challenges, such as deliberate tripping and pulling down a players body to the ground. Injuries are becoming more prevalent so I think the emphasis on tackling will lessen this trend as players will become more aware of their actions.
It will be interesting to see if the Kingdom are still strong contenders for the All-Ireland in the coming months.
