Ballinhassig know all about teh fine margins in the marvellous and unpredictability of the Cork PIHC.
The Blues have been stuck at this level since demotion from the top grade in 2013. They have been constantly knocking on the door, but as of yet, they haven’t been able to burst through.
on saturday, they take on cloyne in the semi-final in Ovens with throw-in at 7.30pm. It’s Ballinhassig’s first time back in the last four since a narrow loss to the eventual winners Inniscarra in 2022.
Ballinhassig have won this grade twice, 2005 and 2012.
The Echo’s Diarmuid O’Donovan presents the ‘Player of the Match’ award to Ballinhassig’s Brendan Lombard after his side defeated Aghada in the PIHC final in 2005. Picture: Eddie O’Hare
Darragh O’Sullivan is well aware of the importance of this weekend.
“it’s great for Ballinhassig to be in a county semi-final,” the Cork senior hurling panellist says to The Echo.
“What’s going on down the club both on the field and off the field, there’s progression there, so it’s great to see.”
Brian O’Shea, Cloyne, and Darragh O’Sullivan, Ballinhassig, ahead of the Co-Op SuperStores 2025 Premier Intermediate hurling Championship Semi-Final.Picture: Jim Coughlan
The championship season so far has been up and down for Ballinhassig. It’s just all about being consistent. Now is the time for them to do it.
“The first day out against Ballincollig, I suppose we came off the pitch that day with a great win, we’ve had great battles with them over the years,” the Blues captain said.
“After that, we have picked up quite a number of injuries. But, like that, it was the next fella up in our squad. It kind of showed a great team bond once these fellas fell, that the next fella up was always pushing on the team.
“We kind of fell flat against Castlemartyr.But then as well, you can look back at that game, how we finished against them was strong and we were unlucky not to have picked up a win or a draw.
“We kind of took that finish into our Kilworth game and that kind of drove us on. we got the last few points to win by a point. That Castlemartyr loss was a big moment for us.We have really been tuned in since then.
“Those injuries might have knocked down another squad. But for us
Darragh O’sullivan Embraces Fresh Start with Cork Senior Hurling Team
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darragh O’Sullivan, a rising star in Cork hurling, is eager to contribute to the senior team under new manager Ben O’Connor.having recently gained valuable experience with the Cork U20s, O’Sullivan is focused on bringing those lessons back to his club, Ballinhassig, and embracing the challenge of senior inter-county competition. This comes after Cork’s narrow defeat to Offaly in the 2023 All-Ireland U20 Hurling Final.
U20 Experience and Personal Growth
O’Sullivan reflects positively on his time with the U20 squad, highlighting the benefits of interacting with players navigating diverse life commitments. “Just getting to know other people, playing with fellas that are older than you that are trying to juggle their jobs, their lifestyles, everything. This has kind of helped me grow as well,” he stated. This experience has not only enhanced his personal progress but also provided valuable insights he intends to share with his clubmates.
He and fellow U20 player, Patrick Collins, are actively working to implement what they’ve learned within Ballinhassig. This demonstrates a commitment to fostering growth at the grassroots level and strengthening the future of Cork hurling.
Welcoming Ben O’Connor’s Appointment
O’Sullivan expressed his delight at the appointment of Ben O’Connor as the new Cork senior hurling manager.Having previously worked with O’Connor during his time with the cork U20s, he is familiar with the manager’s approach. “I’m delighted with Ben O’Connor’s appointment as Cork manager. Sure, I was with him for two years when I was with the Cork U20s,” he said.
He views this as a positive step for the team, emphasizing the chance for a fresh start. “It’s a clean slate for everyone. It’s nice for everyone to have fresh wheels there. I can’t wait for the challenge and what’s going to come with that.” This sentiment suggests a team ready to embrace new strategies and a renewed sense of purpose.
Looking Ahead
Darragh O’Sullivan’s enthusiasm and dedication signal a promising future for both the player and Cork hurling. His commitment to personal growth, club development, and embracing the challenge of senior competition position him as a key player to watch in the coming seasons. The appointment of Ben O’Connor provides a platform for a revitalized Cork team, and O’Sullivan is eager to contribute to their success.
Key Takeaways:
* Darragh O’Sullivan values the personal and hurling development gained from his time with the Cork U20s.
* He is committed to sharing his experiences and learnings with his club, Ballinhassig.
* O’Sullivan welcomes the appointment of Ben O’Connor as Cork senior manager, citing their previous working relationship.
* He views the new management as an opportunity for a fresh start and is excited about the challenges ahead.