John Callinan: To Play, To Live

IN 1972, STILL A BOY at 17 years of age, John Callinan played for the Clare minor, under-21 and senior teams in the championship. It was a summer when he set off on a journey in saffron and blue that would last 15 years. To Play, To Live is the story of  daydreaming but always believing, and forever cherishing every single moment on the hurling field – the greatest days and the heart-breaking days. For John Callinan, it was always about ‘the game’ and ‘the team’ – whether he was on that team or not! He completed hjs hurling career with two All Star awards (1979 and ‘81), two National League medals (1977 and ‘78), and three Railway Cup triumphs. He also fought for two decades with Clarecastle as his home parish chased ultimate glory, before the Magpies at last were crowned champions of Clare (1986 and ‘87). To Play, To Live is the story of love, courage and joy for a game that was never quenched, never dimmed.