No dual dilemma for Kilmacud Crokes double-chaser Brian Sheehy

Brian Sheehy is a proud standard-bearer for a fading GAA tradition.

Just as motorway plazas have eroded the appeal of homemade hang sangwidges and thermos flasks of tae, the increasing demands of senior Gaelic games have made dual players a rarity.

Last Sunday, Sheehy was an unused substitute as Kilmacud Crokes retained their Dublin SFC crown against Na Fianna. This weekend, he is expected to play a bigger role as the Stillorgan club aim to seal the 'double double', again against Na Fianna, whose hurlers they also beat in last year’s decider.

"I wouldn't be doing it if I didn't enjoy both," he told RTÉ Sport, speaking before the football final.

"I’m passionate about the sport, passionate about GAA. I’ve always played football and hurling. Probably a bit of stubbornness in me as well. Why should I have to quit one when I enjoy playing both? I know that in practical terms it’s very tough but I have equal love for football and hurling.

"I think they are special games, they’re made to be played by a dual player. Years ago there always was, especially in Dublin. I want to keep it going as long as I can.

"For every club player, it’s a huge commitment. I train as much as any other lad would because I do 50% with the hurling and 50% with the football. So it’s the same as every club player, I’m no different that way.

"It’s tough because you’re only training 50% of the time. If there’s a lad who only plays football training all the time, how do you justify starting ahead of him when he’s at all the sessions and you’re not? Every training I go to, football or hurling, I’m only going to one a week. There’s extra pressure to perform at that session compared to the lad that has two chances that week. I only have one chance.

"I’m in a very