She’s now the equal-fastest player in AFLW history to 50 career goals, but when Aine McDonagh (AFLW Hawthorn) first arrived, she was a 6-foot, 53kg athlete who openly "feared the contest".
Aine reveals the private fear that "kept her out of games" and the brutal, "insider" off-season playbook she used to gain 17kg and transform from a target into a leader who can finally "win the contest".
She also discusses the "massive clash" she experienced when her "super-competitive" Irish mindset met a professional environment with diverse personalities.
In this episode, discover:
GUEST: AINE MCDONAGH
Originally a dual-sport star from Galway, Ireland, Aine was an inaugural member of the Hawks' AFLW team and is now a key member of their leadership group.
► Follow Aine on Instagram: @ainemcdonagh
TAKE THE NEXT STEP:
If you want to take your performance to the next level, there’s a pathway for you. Book your free athlete’s assessment and let’s build your advantage together.
CONNECT WITH PETER WRIGHT:
► Website: https://peteyperformance.com/
► Instagram: @peteyperformance
► Podcast Instagram: @theathletesadvantagepod
Podcast produced in partnership with Dreamers Media.
Stuck in a frustrating cycle of nagging groin pain and recurring hamstring injuries? You're likely falling victim to outdated advice and common rehab errors. In this episode, Peter breaks down the REAL reasons athletes keep getting hurt and provides clear, actionable solutions.
In this episode, you will learn:
TAKE THE NEXT STEP:
Stop guessing and start fixing the root cause. Book your free, no-obligation athlete’s assessment today.
CONNECT WITH PETER WRIGHT:
► Website: https://peteyperformance.com/
► Instagram: @peteyperformance
► Podcast Instagram: @theathletesadvantagepod
Podcast produced in partnership with Dreamers Media.
What if being a rookie with no bad habits is actually a secret weapon? In this episode, North Melbourne star Bláithín Bogue reveals how coming into the AFLW as a "blank canvas" allowed her to learn the game faster and build a pro-level technique from the ground up—a lesson that challenges everything you think you know about gaining an edge.
In this episode, discover:
GUEST: BLÁITHÍN BOGUE
Bláithín is a resilient and determined athlete from Fermanagh who has transitioned from a successful Gaelic football career to become a key forward for the North Melbourne AFLW team.
► Follow Bláithín on Instagram: @blaithinbogue
TAKE THE NEXT STEP:
If you want to take your performance to the next level, there’s a pathway for you. Book your free athlete’s assessment and let’s build your advantage together.
CONNECT WITH PETER WRIGHT:
► Website: https://peteyperformance.com/
► Instagram: @peteyperformance
Podcast produced in partnership with Dreamers Media.
What does it really take to go from a star athlete at home to a rookie in a professional league abroad? Carlton Blues star and former Irish Player of the Year, Dayna Finn, reveals the unfiltered mindset required to survive and thrive.
In this episode, discover:
How to handle the psychological shock of going from a "big fish" at home to a "small fish" in a pro environment.
The specific skills from GAA & basketball that become a secret weapon in the AFLW.
A practical framework for managing the unavoidable fear of being homesick while chasing your dream.
The one mindset shift required to handle professional-level coaching and constant critical feedback.
GUEST: DAYNA FINN
Dayna is a multi-code elite athlete for the Carlton Blues (AFLW). In Ireland, she represented County Mayo in Gaelic football, the Irish National Team in basketball, and was named the Women's Standout Irish Player of the Year.
► Follow Dayna on Instagram: @dayna_finn
► Follow Dayna on Twitter (X): @daynafinn2
TAKE THE NEXT STEP:
If you want to take your performance to the next level, there’s a pathway for you. Book your free athlete’s assessment and let’s build your advantage together.
CONNECT WITH PETER WRIGHT:
► Website: https://peteyperformance.com/
► Instagram: @peteyperformance
Podcast produced in partnership with Dreamers Media.
Peter Wright gets brutally honest about his grueling ACL reconstruction that didn't go to plan. This is the unfiltered story of turning a major professional setback and burnout into the fuel for a new mission.
In this episode, discover:
The counterintuitive reason a successful personal brand can limit your impact.
The psychological toll of missing a public goal and the framework to reframe it.
The critical turning point where a "minor niggle" threatened an entire rehab process.
The dangerous line between dedication and burnout (and the warning signs to look for).
The surprising personality trait that can make you a "bad client" and sabotage your own progress.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP:
Ready to find your edge? Whether you're in rehab or want to elevate your performance, there's a pathway for you. Book your free, no-obligation athlete's assessment today.
CONNECT WITH PETER WRIGHT:
Follow Peter on Instagram @peteyperformance and the podcast @theathletesadvantagepod. For more resources, visit the official website: https://peteyperformance.com/
Podcast produced in partnership with Dreamers Media.
Get your sports injury & performance questions answered! 💪 This Q&A episode is packed with info for athletes & coaches on ACL rehab, injury prevention, and more.
We dive into:
* ACL Rehab: Effective recovery strategies & pain/swelling management* Quad Strength: How to build back quad strength post-ACL surgery* Groin Injuries: Why they happen & how to prevent/rehab them* Hamstring Health: Understanding injuries & best rehab practices* Speed Training: Drills to improve your acceleration* Coaching Tips: Pricing your services for maximum value* Athlete Development: The key to mastering essential skills
Timestamps to find what you need:
* 0:00 Intro* 1:12 ACL pain and swelling during rehab* 12:20 Pushing to the point of pain* 20:06 Managing swelling* 32:32 Building back quads after ACL* 37:07 Testing quad strength* 54:11 Restoring range of motion* 11:48 Groin injuries: Contributing factors* 17:20 Skill development for athletes* 30:12 Pricing your coaching services* 36:20 Managing swelling to progress rehab
Want more performance insights? 👍 Like, share, & subscribe!
- Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@PeteyPerformance)
🎙️ Connect:
- Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/)
- Twitter: (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9)
- Website: (https://peteyperformance.com/)
- LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance)
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. Through the Petey Performance Podcast, he shares valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science, making complex topics accessible and actionable for athletes at all levels.
🎬 Produced by:
Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersmedia.co/)
#sportsperformance #injuryprevention #rehab #strengthandconditioning #speedtraining #coaching #gaa
After major ACL surgery, I'm sprinting back towards elite performance levels by blending expert coaching, relentless rehab, and a few surprising mindset shifts along the way. Fourteen weeks post-op, I just hit 6.48 meters per second on the field, something I wasn’t even sure would be possible when I first started.
This update isn’t some polished blueprint or "one-size-fits-all" plan. It’s the real story: the stubborn mentality, the tough setbacks, the moments that nearly broke me and the coaching support that kept me pushing forward.
If you're somewhere in the middle of your own rehab, feeling stuck or wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again, maybe this helps. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s the journey I’m still on.
Unlike generic rehab advice, this episode gives you an inside look at what it really takes to come back faster, stronger, and smarter than the timeline says you should.
⏱️ Key Moments:
00:56 - Challenges in the Sports Podcasting Space
03:17 - Decision to Focus on Petey Performance Podcast
03:51 - ACL Rehab Journey
05:21 - Post-Surgery Experience and Initial Recovery
06:32 - Rehab Mentality and Key Principles
11:23 - Recovery Protocol
31:24 - Exercise Selection and Progression
34:58 - Challenges and Adjustments in Training
36:15 - Recovery and Adaptation Strategies
39:16 - Dealing with Setbacks and Adjusting the Plan
41:50 - Improving Speed and Dealing with Rehab Challenges
43:06 - The Importance of a Coach and Deloading
43:51 - Reflections on the Rehab Process
📢 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE:
- Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@PeteyPerformance)
- Leave a comment below with your thoughts and experiences
- Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it
🎙️ CONNECT WITH PETEY PERFORMANCE:
- Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/)
- Twitter: (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9)
- Website: (https://peteyperformance.com/)
- LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance)
📝 ABOUT OUR HOST:
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. Through the Petey Performance Podcast, he shares valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science, making complex topics accessible and actionable for athletes at all levels.
🎬 PRODUCED BY:
Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersagency.co/)
Struggling to make your team’s goals stick?
Taking you through real coaching questions & sharing honest answers about building teams, developing athletes, and navigating the coaching journey. From practical goal-setting frameworks to breaking into elite sport - this episode dives deep into what coaches really want to know.
🔑 KEY MOMENTS:
- Complete framework for team goal setting & values
- Young coach's journey into elite inter-county
- Why athletes should never consider retirement
- Top resources that actually improve coaching
- Building high performance environments
💪 PERFECT FOR:
- New coaches breaking into elite sport
- Experienced coaches refining their approach
- Anyone interested in team culture & development
- Athletes looking to understand coaching perspective
- Club & County level practitioners
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Introduction & YouTube Growth
04:09 - Team Goal Setting Framework
15:28 - Dealing with Loss in Sport
17:25 - The Truth About Athletic Retirement
19:14 - Young Coach Breaking Into Elite Sport
23:58 - Top Resources for Coaches
Special thanks to all the coaches who submitted questions! More Q&As coming soon...
📢 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE:
- Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@PeteyPerformance)
- Leave a comment below with your thoughts and experiences
- Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it
🎙️ CONNECT WITH PETEY PERFORMANCE:
- Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/)
- Twitter: (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9)
- Website: (https://peteyperformance.com/)
- LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance)
📝 ABOUT OUR HOST:
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. Through the Petey Performance Podcast, he shares valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science, making complex topics accessible and actionable for athletes at all levels.
🎬 PRODUCED BY:
Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersagency.co/)
#CoachDevelopment #GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #EliteSport #TeamCulture
The moment I heard the pop, I knew what happened... but this time was different. Taking you through my complete ACL recovery journey and the mental shift that changed everything. 🔑 Key Moments: - The exact injury mechanism (rugby players, you'll get this) - Why I refused pain meds this time - The 3 things I did differently in the first 48 hours - How I turned a career setback into an opportunity - My complete pre-surgery protocol 💪 PERFECT FOR: - Athletes dealing with injuries - Coaches working with ACL recovery - Anyone interested in sports psychology & recovery 🎯 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 The Moment It Happened 02:21 Coming Back to Ireland for Surgery 05:54 The Injury Breakdown (Rugby Players Will Get This) 08:31 First 48 Hours: What I Did Differently 10:24 Why I Refused Pain Medication 13:35 Mental Game: Reframing the Setback 16:42 Why ACL Injuries Actually Happen 19:41 My Pre-Surgery Protocol 21:34 Speed-Based vs Traditional Recovery 23:56 Getting Help vs Going Solo 24:36 Advice for First-Time ACL Injuries 26:17 Next Steps & Final Thoughts 📢 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE: - Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@PeteyPerformance) - Leave a comment below with your thoughts and experiences - Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it 🎙️ CONNECT WITH PETEY PERFORMANCE: - Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/) - Twitter: (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9) - Website: (https://peteyperformance.com/) - LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance) 👤 ABOUT OUR HOST: Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. Through the Petey Performance Podcast, he shares valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science, making complex topics accessible and actionable for athletes at all levels. 🎬 PRODUCED BY: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersagency.co/) #ACLRecovery #SportsInjury #ReturnToPlay #InjuryComeback #ACLRehab
Discover how world-class coaches master communication to transform relationships, build trust, and inspire winning performances. Packed with real-world strategies from sports and business, this episode reveals the mindset and tools you need to coach like a pro. 📌 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Communicating Essentials
02:34 Building Trust
05:13 Relationship Building
10:26 Authenticity Matters
13:56 Influencing Tactics
18:28 Empathy and Connection
25:10 Effective Communication
-----
Join the Conversation
-----
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!
-----
About Our Host
-----
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.
Stay Connected
For more insights, performance tips, and updates:
• Website: www.peteyperformance.com
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
• Twitter/X: @peteyperform9
• LinkedIn: Petey-Performance
-----
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
-----
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
“Struggling with nagging groin pain that just won’t quit? You’re not alone!” Groin injury rehab—a frustrating and often misunderstood part of athletic performance. Many athletes find themselves caught in a cycle of recurring pain, trying the same rehab routines without real progress. I’ve been there, and I get it.
The standard approach to groin rehab often falls short, but a new, movement-focused strategy addresses the root causes instead of just managing symptoms. I'm talking about an individualised approach that go beyond basic exercises to tackle your movement mechanics and restore true strength.
📌 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 Introduction and Solo Episode Overview
0:34 Speed Training: Session Design and Key Considerations
5:02 Principles of Speed, Volume, and Progression
9:59 Responding to Audience Q&A on Groin and Hip Rehab
18:06 Addressing Movement Quality and Mechanics in Rehab
23:10 Improving Ankle Reactivity and Reducing Hip Load
28:02 Comprehensive Advice on Strength, Mobility, and Recovery
-----
Join the Conversation
-----
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!
-----
About Our Host
-----
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.
Stay Connected
For more insights, performance tips, and updates:
• Website: www.peteyperformance.com
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
• Twitter/X: @peteyperform9
• LinkedIn: Petey-Performance
-----
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
-----
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
Imagine being miles from home, battling a mid-season injury, and still pushing through to perform at your best. That’s Orla O’Dwyer, a rising star with the Brisbane Lions in AFLW and the first Irish player to receive All-Australian honours in over a decade. Orla shares her story—from navigating a recent shoulder injury to the camaraderie with fellow Irish players that keeps her grounded.
📌 TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Introduction and Orla’s Recent Shoulder Injury
5:38 Challenges of a Short AFLW Season and Recovery
9:32 Team Dynamics, Consistency, and Building Relationships
13:21 Transition to Australian Football and Irish Culture Abroad
18:45 Community Among Irish Athletes in the AFLW
23:10 Unique Fitness and Training Approaches of Irish Players
27:54 Balancing Athletic Career with Life and Future Planning
35:19 AFLW Game Intensity, Physicality, and Mentality
42:09 Reflections on Playing Against Irish Teammates and Role Model Impact
50:00 Orla’s Connection to Home and Future in Ireland
-----
About Our Guest
-----
Orla O’Dwyer is an Irish AFLW star playing for the Brisbane Lions. A former Gaelic footballer, she became the first Irish AFLW player to earn All-Australian honors in 2022 and was a pivotal player in the Lions’ 2021 premiership win. Known for her agility and athleticism, Orla is a consistent performer in the midfield and a leader on the field. Her achievements highlight her influence in AFLW and her impact as an international player.
• Brisbane Lions: (https://www.lions.com.au/players/2076/orla-o-dwyer/)
• Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/orlaodwyer98/)
-----
Join the Conversation
-----
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!
-----
About Our Host
-----
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.
Stay Connected
For more insights, performance tips, and updates:
• Website: www.peteyperformance.com
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
• Twitter/X: @peteyperform9
• LinkedIn: Petey-Performance
-----
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
-----
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
Ever wondered what it’s like to switch from Gaelic football (GAA) to one of Australia’s most popular sports? Meet Niamh McLaughlin
—Donegal’s very own superstar who’s now making waves in the Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW) with the Gold Coast Suns.
📌 TIMESTAMPS:
00:00:00 - Introduction: Niamh McLaughlin on fitness and professionalism
00:02:09 - Media differences between AFLW and Gaelic football
00:07:11 - Transitioning from football in England to AFLW
00:09:47 - Overcoming ACL injuries and building discipline
00:19:19 - Impact of AFLW on Gaelic football skills and growth
00:27:59 - Learning from a tough AFLW season
00:36:25 - Tackling and physicality differences in AFLW
00:44:23 - Increasing competitiveness for Irish players in AFLW
------------------------------
Don’t Miss Out
------------------------------
• Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!
------------------------------
About Our Guest
------------------------------
Niamh McLaughlin is a Donegal native and former captain of the county’s senior Gaelic football team, where she earned the 2022 LGFA Player of the Year award. In 2023, she transitioned to the AFLW, joining the Gold Coast Suns. Known for her leadership and athleticism, Niamh has made a seamless shift from Gaelic football to Aussie Rules, becoming a standout figure in both sports.
• Gold Coast SUNS: (https://www.goldcoastfc.com.au/players/aflw/11817/niamh-mclaughlin/)
------------------------------
About Our Host
------------------------------
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.
------------------------------
Stay Connected
------------------------------
For more insights, performance tips, and updates:
Website (https://peteyperformance.com/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/)
Twitter/X (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance)
------------------------------
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersagency.co/)
------------------------------
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
What does it take to transition from one of Ireland’s toughest sports to one of Australia’s most demanding leagues? Darragh Joyce knows firsthand. Darragh Joyce, a key defender for the Brisbane Lions, shares his journey from Kilkenny hurling to becoming a successful AFL player in Australia.
Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction and emotional reflection on the Grand Final
00:02:09 - Reflecting on winning the AFL Premiership and Brisbane Lions’ journey
00:07:30 - Tactical execution in the AFL Grand Final and adapting as a defender
00:15:05 - Transition from Gaelic football to AFL and adjusting to new roles
00:27:00 - Challenges of moving to Australia and homesickness
00:33:32 - Coping with injuries and maintaining resilience
00:41:00 - Team dynamics, competition, and preparing teammates
00:43:31 - Post-Grand Final celebrations and enjoying the win
00:45:01 - Reflections on returning to play Gaelic games in Ireland ------------------------------ About Our Guest ------------------------------ Darragh Joyce is an Irish-born professional athlete who currently plays for the Brisbane Lions in the Australian Football League (AFL). Originally from County Kilkenny, Ireland, Darragh made a name for himself as a talented hurler before making the bold move to transition to Australian Rules Football. His hurling background with Kilkenny gave him a strong athletic foundation, which helped him adapt to the physical demands of AFL. Darragh first signed with St Kilda Football Club, where he played as a key defender, before moving to the Brisbane Lions.
• Brisbane Lions: (https://www.lions.com.au/players/1368/darragh-joyce) • Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/joycedarragh/) ------------------------------ Don’t Miss Out ------------------------------ • Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. • Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you! • Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them! ------------------------------ About Our Host ------------------------------ Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game. ------------------------------ Stay Connected ------------------------------ For more insights, performance tips, and updates: Website (https://peteyperformance.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/peteyperformance/) Twitter/X (https://twitter.com/peteyperform9) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/petey-performance) ------------------------------ Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd (https://www.dreamersagency.co/) ------------------------------ Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
Imagine being in the first few minutes of a critical game, feeling on top of the world—only to have your knee buckle beneath you. For AFLW star Erika O’Shea that’s exactly what happened. But instead of letting it defeat her, she finished the game, ran on pure adrenaline, and eventually bounced back even stronger.
Growing up in Cork, Erika was a force on the Gaelic football field—fast, agile, and fiercely determined. Swapping the familiar pitches of Ireland for the fast-paced, physical world of Australian Rules Football was a whole new challenge. Moving to North Melbourne meant tougher training, different tactics, and adapting to a new culture that demanded even more commitment.
But Erika didn’t back down. She pushed herself physically and mentally, proving she’s not just a skilled athlete but a resilient competitor. Every game showcases her relentless work ethic and adaptability. As she leaves her Gaelic roots behind and makes her mark in one of the toughest leagues in the world, Erika shows that true strength isn’t just about physical ability—it’s about rising after setbacks and growing stronger in the face of adversity.
"Don't miss Erika's incredible insights on overcoming adversity, conquering challenges, mental resilience, and managing dual sports. This is a must-listen!"
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction and early knee injury
00:02:09 - Mental and physical recovery from injury
00:05:08 - Impact of injury on playing style (attack vs. defense)
00:06:42 - Recovery practices in AFLW vs Gaelic football
00:08:33 - Team culture and leadership at North Melbourne
00:12:54 - Transition from Gaelic football to AFLW
00:17:16 - Importance of mental recovery and sports psychology
00:27:59 - Moving to Australia at 19 and dealing with homesickness
00:36:16 - AFLW’s condensed fixture schedule and its challenges
00:39:47 - Balancing AFLW with Gaelic football ambitions
00:45:15 - Reflections on Gaelic football and potential return
-----
About Our Guest
-----
Erika O’Shea is a professional Australian Rules Football player for North Melbourne in the AFLW. Originally from Cork, Ireland, she was a standout Gaelic football player before making the leap to professional sports in Australia. Erika is known for her dedication to both the mental and physical aspects of athletic performance and her ability to overcome challenges through resilience and hard work.
• North Melbourne Football Club: Official Website
• Instagram: @erikaoshea_
-----
Join the Conversation
-----
Have thoughts or questions about today’s episode? We’d love to hear from you!
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
Don’t Miss Out
• Subscribe to The Petey Performance Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!
• Share with Friends: Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!
-----
About Our Host
-----
Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.
Stay Connected
For more insights, performance tips, and updates:
• Website: www.peteyperformance.com
• Instagram: @peteyperformance
• Twitter/X: @peteyperform9
• LinkedIn: Petey-Performance
-----
Produced by: Dreamers Media Pty Ltd
-----
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!
What happens when the final whistle blows, and the reality of being knocked out of a championship settles in?
Join Pete in Melbourne during AFL Grand Final week, for a discussion on the familiar topic of what to do when the off-season comes as a GAA athlete!
Pete shares his experiences from a career in high-level sport and insights on the transformative power of off-season training for athletes of all levels. He also fills you guys in on his speed experiment that will be gracing your screens in the coming weeks!
The emotional and physical aftermath of a championship loss can be likened to a profound sense of identity loss for athletes. This episode uncovers the importance of taking adequate time off post-season to recover both physically and psychologically.
Pete delves into managing injuries like tendinopathy and tendinitis, emphasising the necessity of training to rebuild tissue strength.
Plus, learn why conducting a thorough performance audit at the start of the off-season is crucial for identifying areas of improvement and setting the stage for a stronger comeback next season.
Setting SMART goals and tailoring training programs to individual athlete archetypes is vital for effective development. Pete explores the differences between reactive and strength-dominant athletes, and the importance of a personalised training approach.
Hear about insights from recent research on fascial mechanics and specific strategies for speed work and mobility.
This episode also covers the importance of movement quality, consulting with professionals for assessments, and balancing nutrition and training during the off-season.
Whether you're rehabbing from an injury or looking to enhance your performance, reach out for support and make the most of your off-season recovery and goal-setting process.
Timestamps
00:07 - Off-Season Training and Sprint Experiment
11:15 - Post-Season Recovery and Training Strategy
20:01 - Individualised Athletic Training Programs
32:42 - Movement Quality and Athlete Development
38:18 - Off-Season Goal Setting and Rehabilitation Services
In this solo episode, Pete takes you behind the scenes of balancing business and personal life. He discusses a recent golf day with GAA pros, sharing the highs and insights from the event, delves into a strength conference he attended, offering a deep dive into the topics discussed, networking experiences and practical advice for fellow coaches and athletes. Plus, Pete provides a personal update, including exciting news about his imminent move to Australia.
Whether you’re interested in sports, strength and conditioning or the journey of a professional coach, this episode offers real, actionable insights.
In this solo episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, Pete dives into the mechanics of running and the intricacies of hamstring tendinopathy, offering valuable insights for athletes and coaches alike.
He also explores the importance of trust and community in coaching and discusses how to provide top tier service to build a successful business.
Plus, Pete answers audience questions, touches on Olympic inspiration, and highlights the role of mindset in recovery.
In this episode, Pete shares key insights on running a successful business on social media, including hitting the milestone of 6000 Instagram followers, going viral and creating valuable content. He gives an update on his golf journey and hints at exciting developments for The Backdoor Cut Podcast, without giving too much away.
Pete explores the concept of culture, offers top book recommendations for coaches & athletes interested in facilitating the development of a group and dives deep into a lecture on leadership and team culture from the Petey Performance Virtual Mentorship!
In this episode Peter delves into the biomechanics of acceleration and deceleration, crucial concepts for athletes and coaches, and breaks down the details of movement mechanics and their impact on performance.
This episode also features promotion for the Petey Performance Virtual Mentorship. If you’re interested in personalised coaching and mentorship, message “Mentorship” on Instagram @PeteyPerformance to start the conversation. Whether you’re into sports, coaching and/or strength and conditioning, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.