Dooher is just as determined to succeed off the pitch as he did on it

SOME of the stories surrounding Brian Dooher’s commitment to training were legendary during his illustrious inter-county career which saw the Clann na nGael clubman captain his county to two All-Ireland titles.

But the passing years have not diminished his determination to improve. Now, as both him and Feargal Logan, prepare for their first training session with the Tyrone seniors when the coronavirus restrictions finally ease, he will no doubt be very aware of what’s needed from both players and management as they get set for the new season.

In the meantime, the planning is beginning in earnest as Feargal Logan and Brian Dooher look ahead with confidence and excitement to embarking on a new journey with the Tyrone seniors.

Both were players of renown, who lined out together when the Red Hands won the Ulster title in 1996. Nearly a quarter of a century on, the challenge of guiding Tyrone’s fortunes for the next three years is firmly in their hands.

“There is a pressure obviously and it’s a challenge and an opportunity as well. When we were playing Mickey Harte provided us with the platform to be the best we could be. That worked out in three years in 2003, 2005 and 2008 because of the structures that were put in place,” he said.

“Now it’s up to us to put those structures in place again so that the players can reach their full potential. Who knows what’s out in front of us, but all we can do is the best we can and see where that takes us. There are expectations, and opportunity also.

“We will have an open door policy for anyone out there on the club scene who believes that they’re good enough. This year’s Tyrone championship was a revelation all around the country and hopefully we will be in the position to give those players the chance to wear a Tyrone jersey.”

FULL STORY IN YESTERDAY’S STRABANE CHRONICLE