Padraig O’Hora says GAA players don’t need to consume alcohol to enjoy post-match celebrations.

The Ballina Stephenites and Mayo defender made headlines last month when he called for a ban on alcohol marketing and advertising in sport on RTÉ1’s ‘Upfront With Katie Hannon’ programme. O’Hora, who works with Youth Work Ireland, gave up alcohol a number of years ago after seeing the impact it has on many Irish families.

“We won a county title last year. We were in the pub for nearly three days,” he told reporters at SuperValu’s launch of the GAA All-Ireland Senior Football Championship.

“I was there for the best part of it. I didn’t drink. You can still do it. You can still socialise. It is a bit awkward-ish, I suppose but when you’ve got something to . . .

“I don’t go out really because I don’t drink and there is no real grá to go out. There is nothing there for me, whereas if you win a county title or you have a good run with Mayo – whatever happens, you get an opportunity to go and socialise with your mates, you take it.

“I don’t think alcohol has to be the be all and end all. For example, we won in New York and there was obviously the opportunity to go out and have a night out in New York.

“I was there and had good craic. I think one or two others didn’t drink too, actually to be honest.”

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