Maher – Sheridan’s vision helped me see All-Ireland glory as Tipperary captain Ronan Maher opened up about the powerful influence of mindset coach Cathal Sheridan. Maher credits Sheridan’s approach to visualisation and mental preparation as a major factor behind Tipperary’s journey to securing their 29th All-Ireland hurling title.
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Mindset Coaching That Makes a Difference
Speaking at the launch of Aviva’s new partnership with ClubberTV, Maher was full of praise for the former Munster rugby scrum-half, describing him as a huge support on and off the pitch. “He’s been really beneficial to me,” Maher said. “He’s helped me manage the responsibilities of captaincy and with game preparation. Honestly, he’s been brilliant for us.” Maher revealed that every member of the team has been working with Sheridan individually, using his techniques to build confidence and stay focused. One strategy involves reviewing past clips of strong performances, helping players remind themselves of their abilities whenever doubts creep in.
Building Confidence and Focus
Sheridan, who has worked with Munster Rugby since retiring in 2017, plays a big role in Tipperary’s weekly preparation. Maher noted how Sheridan keeps their attention fixed on the game rather than the pressure of the occasion. “If you’re feeling nervous or unsure, he’s the perfect person to turn to. He brings that belief back into you and reminds you of the work you’ve already done,” Maher explained.
Leadership Grounded in Perspective
Maher emphasized that Sheridan’s role wasn’t just about handling the captain’s responsibilities. “It wasn’t only about leadership,” he said. “He’d guide me to visualize moments, bring me back to where it all started, and remind me how special it is to represent my club.” Maher appreciated how Sheridan made conversations personal by asking questions instead of giving lectures, and by connecting beyond the sport—talking about family, life, and challenges outside hurling.
A Trusted Voice in the Dressing Room
Coming from a high-performance background like Munster, Sheridan brought a level of credibility that made players trust his guidance. Maher admitted that Sheridan has pushed him to grow and occasionally challenged him in the best ways. “He’s just been unbelievable for us,” Maher added. “We’re a really close group, and Cathal’s part of that bond. We’re lucky to have someone who genuinely cares.”
