Crawford ready for new role as Donegal Masters kick-off 2025 with recruitment night

The Donegal Masters held their recruitment night at the Sean Mac Cumhaills GAA Clubhouse on Thursday to kick off their 2025 campaign.  

The event was well-attended, with both familiar faces and new ones joining the gathering. Among the attendees were the new chairman of the Masters, Conor McShane, and Treasurer Gerard McBrearty.  

The evening's focus was on introducing new players and discussing the plans for the upcoming season, as well as providing an opportunity to ask the new manager, Eddie Crawford, about his vision for the team. 

READ NEXT: Donegal clubs set to play under new rules as Ulster League kicks off this weekend

Crawford reflected on his experiences from the previous season, acknowledging the challenges of stepping into the role of manager.  

"Last year, Masters football was all new to me," he said. "I came on board with Francie Martin, and we had to get to know the players and their positions."  

In that time, the team faced some tough early matches, particularly against Tyrone and Derry.  

"They caught us on the hop; they were both technically good teams, and they both beat us, with Tyrone going on to win the All-Ireland Mickey Loftus Cup," Crawford explained.  

However, the team regrouped and gained momentum after that.  

"We went to London, got a draw there, and went unbeaten after that, winning the All-Ireland Plate," he added.   

"This year, we hope to improve again and move forward. Winning the third-tier championship last year was great, but we should be aiming for the second-tier shield and pushing for the senior championship." 

When asked about changes to the team this season, Crawford confirmed that there would be some retirements, particularly from players in their late 40s or nearing 50. However, the recruitment drive at the event aimed to bring in new talent.  

"We have a few people here tonight who are interested in joining, and there are others, like Leon Thompson from Naomh Conaill, who have expressed interest," Crawford shared.  

Crawford was also asked why people should join the GAA Masters, and he explained that the appeal of the Masters goes beyond competitive play.  

"Most people who play Masters football have given a lifetime of service to the GAA," he said.  

"They're all good GAA people who have coached or played with their clubs, and they want to stay involved. It's also great for mental health, staying healthy, and having fun with people in your age group."  

He emphasised that while the Masters is competitive, it's also about socialising and enjoying the game.  

"A lot of people want to wear the County jersey, and even if it's in the Masters, that's something special," Crawford added. "It's all about playing for your County and wearing that jersey with pride." 

When asked what motivated him to take on the role of manager, Crawford shared that his long history in coaching had prepared him for the challenge.  

"I've been involved in coaching in Glenswilly for years, and I’ve managed various teams," he explained. "I’ve also got diplomas in GAA Coaching and Management, which I wanted to put to use. When the committee asked me to take on the role this year, I felt it was the right time to challenge myself. 

"John Joe O'Shea, an old friend of ours, is back this year to help out," Crawford said, noting O'Shea's experience managing vocational schools and All-Ireland teams.  

Other key members include Paul Gallagher, who has been with the Masters for several years, Michael Canning from Inishowen, and Ruairi McLoughlin, a trainer from Sean Mac Cumhaills.  

"Our team covers all areas, with people from the West, South, and Inishowen," Crawford explained, highlighting the team's broad geographical representation. 

Regarding the new rule changes in Gaelic football, Crawford acknowledged the challenges clubs have faced in adapting.  

"Every club has found it hard to adjust to the new rules, and I think we need another year to fully adapt," he said.  

"We’re not as fit or as quick as the younger teams, but I see the new rules coming in for us in the next year or two. 

"The Centre of Excellence in Convoy has been very good to us, and we’re waiting for confirmation on when we can start," he said. "We're hoping to begin by the end of February or the first week of March, as we have an exhibition match in Glasgow on March 28 against Tyrone, which is part of a fundraiser for the redevelopment of Pearse Park Centre."