Name: DJ Earley
Age: 19
Height: 5’10
Occupation: Apprentice electrician
Club: Monasterevin
Position: Half back
GAA Honours:
2018 Under 20 Leinster Championship, 2018 Under 20 All-Ireland Championship.2019 Div. 3 League, 2019 Intermediate Championship.
What age were you when you started playing Gaelic football?
I’m sure I was about 5 when I was first brought up to training.
Someone who has had an influence on your career?
My father has had a massive influence on me. Always gave me great advice and believed in me.
Three words to describe yourself as a player?
Driven, aggressive & smart.
Favourite Sportsperson and why?
Ronaldo. He shows what you can do if you work hard enough. Came from absolutely nothing and is now one of the best in history.
Who is the best player you played with?
Jimmy Hyland
Best player you played against?
Chris Healy
Most memorable GAA sporting moment?
Climbing the steps in Croker after winning the All-Ireland in 2018.
Favourite Club Player?
John O’Toole
Favourite County Player?
Aaron O’Neill
Best grounds you have ever played in?
Croke park
What do you most enjoy about been part of the GAA?
The fun you have is unbeatable and the friends you make last a lifetime. The Monday club is up there too.
Best Advice someone has given you?
Play without fear and never surrender.
How do you prepare for games?
I try to stay as relaxed as possible. Prepare my gear the night before and have everything set up for match day. Plenty of water and the right food in the week of the game I’d listen to music for an hour before the match to get myself focused.
What advice have you for the young players in the county?
Never give up, never be afraid. Attitude trumps ability.
Expectations for the team for 2020?
I have huge expectations for the team this year. There is massive belief and ability in the team. We’ll take each game as it comes and hopefully go all the way again.
What does it mean to you to captain your county?
It’s a massive honour and privilege to captain my county. It’s a huge responsibility and I’m doing as much as I can to drive the team and our standards so we can reach our potential.
Best of luck to DJ, the team & management in today’s Eirgrid Leinster U20 Football Championship Quarter-Final
Kildare v Offaly
Venue: St. Conleth’s Park, 2pm
