By Ronan Scott

CAVAN footballer Padraig Faulkner says that the lack of information about the coronavirus pandemic, and what it means for the future of the GAA, is one of the main frustrations for county players.

However, the Kingscourt defender said that he is working on the belief that there will be no football at all this year.

Faulkner said: “It would be nice to know a bit more information about what is going on.

“We are still in the unknown. It is difficult to get motivated for something that might not happen. It is a bit like the leaving certs. I can only imagine what it is like to study for something that might not happen.”

Faulkner said that the GAA have handled the situation well. He admitted that putting restrictions on players was crucial.

“The GAA had to be shut down, I know myself. Just before it was locked down, I went down for a social distance kick-about with three other fellas.

“We went to the pitch, and another three fellas came down. Then another four fellas came down. After a while there was almost a football team there. So it was the right idea to close all the pitches.”

Faulkner said that the work that they are doing now has changed since the start of the lockdown.

“We have eased up a bit. It’s hard to know what will happen. I can’t see any GAA action happening this year.

“It’s frustrating but it is in the safety of everyone. If they do run it then they have to look at every measure to see how prevention can happen.”

What is also is important is protecting the mental health of all the players.

“Mental health affects everyone. I know myself that I have some very down days. Everything in my life is straightforward, but for someone who has loans or bills to pay it would be worse.

“It is so important to stay in contact with friends and family.

“There are good weeks and bad weeks you have to take each week as it comes.

“Some days it is very hard to get motivated. That can even be just getting outside. I try my best to get out when I can.”

The Cavan team is staying in contact and are working on their individual strength and conditioning programme.

“The programmes are great and we are doing them. What I have realised is that I don’t think I would be cut out for an individual sport.

“I am really missing the bonding that comes with being in a team sport.

“You miss the fun, the enjoyment, meeting friends.”

If there are any positives to take from it, Faulkner says that new skills have been acquired.

“I’ve become a baker, a chef, a gardener. I try to throw my hand at baking bread, usually the mother comes in and keeps me right.”

r.scott@gaeliclife.com