skip to main content

Gavin's individualism still driving the Dubs forward

Jim Gavin has not lost a championship match as Dublin manager in five years
Jim Gavin has not lost a championship match as Dublin manager in five years

The things that make you distinctively you and distinguish you from others are an example of your individuality.

In the world of sports management, Jim Gavin would be an interesting case study for those who seek to further expand on the human condition.

Gavin is no different to most managers, will praise his own team, while also talking up the chances of his rivals. In general, he will tell you as much as you need to know. However, what probably sets him apart from his counterparts is that you would like to know what else is whirling about in his mind.

In post-match interviews and on media days, the Dublin boss's delivery is always measured. The aftermath of the draw with Mayo in the 2016 All-Ireland final was perhaps the only time he revealed a sense of unease in his voice.

We don't see him jumping around with delight after a Dublin success, either. There is a great sense of self control. Maybe it's his military training and that notion that he is just one of the cogs, albeit an important one, that keeps the Dublin juggernaut ticking along so nicely.

On Sunday next, Dublin GAA stands on the cusp of history as they seek to land a fifth All-Ireland title on the spin when they take on Kerry.

When asked about their preparation for the game, Gavin, not for the first, spoke about the process that will be undertaken.

"We will focus on our gameplan and try and get our skill set right," he told RTÉ Sport's Peter Branigan. Classic Gavin response that we now have come to expect. 

The Dublin team prior to the semi-final win over Mayo

"We will practice the skills of the game - catching, kicking, high fielding, tackling and blocking. All our guys are putting in a serious effort, and all are exceptional leaders on the field of play."

As for Kerry, not surprisingly, he mentioned the "massive challenge" that his side faces.

"This isn't a team who are developing, this is a team who are accomplished and polished," he added.

"Against Mayo (in the Super 8s), they had 15 points on the board from their first 19 attacks. And against Cork in the Munster final, they yielded 1-05 from six successive attacks. They have a depth of talent in their side from recent underage success."

To his credit, Gavin is always quick to praise the efforts of those on the pitch.

He often refers to the "humility" of the players at his disposal and the importance of what it is to represent Dublin and to have respect for the opposition and officials.

When Gavin spoke at the Bord Gáis Energy Business Conference in 2016, he revealed an ability to read the mindset of his players.

"Emotional intelligence is very important, the ability to read a dressing room is key.

"I wouldn't be one for roaring and shouting but you need to raise the voice the odd time to snap them back into the moment.

"You pick that up over time, you get a sense of the energy, the atmosphere when it’s crackling.

"At half-time there is no talk of the outcome, just a focus on the process."

For the 1995 All-Ireland winner, the process is key and Gavin has always left his own individual mark on how that process ultimately bears fruit. 

Follow the All-Ireland football final via our live blog on RTÉ.ie/sport and the News Now app, listen live on RTÉ Radio 1's Sunday Sport, or watch the Sunday Game on RTÉ2 from 2.15pm.

Read Next