Former Cork star John Miskella has described winning a county football title with his club Ballincollig as the "best sporting feeling" he's had during his long career.
The 36-year-old played a key part in Ballincollig's 1-13 to 1-10 win over Carbery Rangers at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday. The success was even more remarkable for the victors in that it was their first ever appearance in the decider.
Miskella's 12-year tenure with the Rebels saw him claim All-Ireland honours in 2010. Three Allianz League and four Munster football titles also came his way along with All Star recognition in 2009.
However, he places last Sunday's club triumph ahead of those milestones.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport, he said: "In Ballincollig we never got close to winning the county title. To win it out of the blue like this is the best sporting feeling I've ever had. I've had some great memories with Cork. This tops it. You can't beat this."
"I've had some great memories with Cork. This tops it. You can't beat this"
Miskella went on to explain the importance of playing for your own people.
"There is no such thing as transfer windows with your club. Where you're born - you play with that club," he added.
"Every supporter has an affinity with the players. You want to play with your best friends. You've grown up with the management team and to do it as a combined group is a special feeling."
When asked why it took so long (after 128 years) for Ballincollig to make the breakthrough at county level, Miskella could not give a definite answer, but he is hopeful that this victory will be the springboard for even more success.
"We've only been to a semi-final once and that was back in 1999. It's hard to put a finger on it. Ballincollig is a big town. It's a well-run club with plenty of good players coming through all the time.
"Everything just came right for us this year and hopefully it will be the catalyst for more success in the future.
"There are players in this town to ensure we kick on."
