100 not out: Caolan McGonagle ‘privileged’ to reach century of appearances

Caolan McGonagle says he is privileged to have made his 100th appearance for Donegal.

McGonagle, who turned 30 just over two weeks ago on January 9, the same day he and his partner Ciara welcomed baby Oisin into the world, got to 100 appearances after the Division 1 win over Dublin in Croke Park on Saturday evening.

And it’s five days to the 10-year anniversary of his first appearance for Donegal, as they disposed of Down in their opening game of the league.

“It’s a great honour,” McGonagle said.

“It’s probably something more important for my parents and people in my club, it’ll maybe be something I look back on in my future but I take it game by game and I just so happen to be on 100 and we’re happy to get the result, it puts a bit of icing on the cake for me.

“I’ve had my fair share of injuries, and it’s taken me nearly ten years to hit 100 appearances, but it’s about getting in at the start, building that confidence and keeping it rolling from there.

Getting to 100 appearances isn’t taken lightly by the Buncrana man, who admits there is a form of pressure that also comes with it.

“It’s a privilege and an honour, there are how many Gaelic footballers in Donegal and only 30-35 make the senior panel every year, so we know we’re in a privileged position, but we’ve got to work hard. People are paying their money to come and support us, so we’re kind of under a bit of pressure to perform, but we don’t take it for granted.

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“There have been plenty of good days and Ulster finals we’ve won, and it’s really enjoyable.

“The experience as a whole, win, lose or draw, you’re representing your county with some of your best friends.”