John Scally – författare

One of the most endearing features of sport is its perennial humour. Witness this extraordinary collection of Freudian slips, true confessions, double entendres and unintentional puns which demonstrates that sporting foot-in-mouth disease is far more rampant than mad cow disease.Players, coaches, commentators and journalists are all represented as well as some famous names who know little about sport but are always good for a quote."I wanted to be an Olympic swimmer but I had some problems with buoyancy."WOODY ALLEN"The first ninety minutes are the most important."BOBBY ROBSON"I was swinging like a toilet door on a prawn trawler."DAVID FEHERTYThe British boys are adopting the attacking position with Cox up."DAN MASKELL

In As I Have Loved You: An Interview With Mother Teresa, John Scally discovers a woman behind the blessed face of Mother Teresa. Emerging from her strong faith and good deeds for the poor, we discover a woman whose interior life was also marked with a deep, painful, and abiding feeling of being separated from God, even rejected by Him, along with an ever-increasing longing for His love. This interior, "e;the darkness,"e; show us the moments that reveal her true heroism. No pilgrimage is without doubt, and no love is without God. Learn the unique spirituality of Mother Teresa and see truth in the hearts of the poor through Mother Teresa's experience.

Bursting with humour and full of amusing anecdotes, 100 Irish Rugby Greats is a unique celebration of the most significant stars of the sport from the 1930s to the present day. A veritable who’s who of Irish rugby, it takes in all of the true greats, including Jack Kyle, Tony O’Reilly, Mike Gibson, Willie John McBride, Moss Keane, Keith Wood, Brian O’Driscoll and Paul O’Connell.Many of the in-depth and revealing profiles are based on interviews with the legends themselves, as well as with those who have lined up against them. The result offers remarkable insights into the myriad controversies, epic matches, thrilling contests and pivotal events on and off the field in which each player has been involved.Written with an insider’s knowledge, 100 Irish Rugby Greats will prove to be a thrilling read for all fans of the sport.

Based on exclusive interviews with 40 celebrated players, past and present, Legends of Irish Rugby is a veritable who's who of the sport. Immortals such as Jack Kyle, Willie John McBride, Tony Ward, Brian O'Driscoll, Gordon D'Arcy and Paul O'Connell bare their souls to reveal themselves as men of vision, passion and dedication - men who, through their glories, disappointments and dramatic deeds, have inspired others to realise their dreams.In this engrossing and entertaining account of the bittersweet history of Irish rugby, these powerful personalities offer startling insights into some of the sport's most controversial moments - from the assault on Ronan O'Gara during the 2001 Lions tour to Gary Ella's tenure as Leinster coach. They also express their opinions on the most important issues facing the game today - from Brian O'Driscoll's hair to the role of the coach and the future of the sport itself. Their take on the times is often as comical as it is insightful.Compelling, informative and humorous, Legends of Irish Rugby is by far the most revealing volume yet on one of the country's favourite sports.

Rugby is not a game for those who think that centres are what you find in a box of Black Magic or who confuse Jonah Lomu with Joanna Lumley. At the same time, it is not a game for the bright: what kind of tortured mind would invent an oval ball? Of course, it helps if you know the rules and don't have any fear. In this respect you are in the same boat as most referees, particularly if you have a problem with your eyesight. Odd-Shaped Balls captures the humour, the agony and the ecstasy of one of the world's most popular sports. It snoops inside sweaty, smelly dressing-rooms, reveals the passions of coaches and fans - without whom rugby would cease to exist - and delves deep into the sport's archives to recall its heroes, villains and victims, all of whom are part of the daily currency. The book is no less than a who's who of the game, with both old and young getting the opportunity to have their say. Lining out is a cast of mischief-makers, miscreants and mad-hatters: from Max Boyce to Keith Wood; from Sean Fitzpatrick to Austin Healy; from Bill Beaumont and his streaker to Gavin Hastings; from Gareth Edwards to David Campese; and from the man in the scrum to the man at the bar. All exponents of surrealism, comic genius and savage wit, they offer a quirky insight into the sporting psyche as well as providing some riotous good laughs.With hundreds of funny stories, Odd-Shaped Balls is a light-hearted romp through decades of rugby tomfoolery that is guaranteed to put a smile on the face of all sports fans.

The lore and legend of Gaelic Games has been shaped by great players. Since the Games began, special players have had a unique power to make the heart skip a beat. Now THE GAA IMMORTALS celebrates the achievements of 100 of the very best footballers, hurlers, managers, ladies footballers and camogie players from the start of the twentieth century to the present day.Based around exclusive interviews with a who''s who of Gaelic Games, THE GAA IMMORTALS covers all the codes, giving a unique insight into icons of the games, including Dick Fitzgerald, Mick Mackey, Christy Ring, Jack Lynch, Nicky Rackard, Mick O’Connell, Seán O''Neill, Eddie Keher, Jimmy Barry-Murphy, Angela Downey, Lulu Carroll, Nicky English, DJ Carey, Peter Canavan, Henry Shefflin, Gooch Cooper and Joe Canning.With stars from all 32 counties represented, THE GAA IMMORTALS is a fascinating account of the greatest heroes and legends of the games."John Scally''s latest book celebrates the fantastic players, the unforgettable games, the great rivalries and the wonderful pride in parish and county that is part and parcel of the GAA."EILEEN DUNNE"A true celebration of the greats of the GAA."SEAN BOYLAN

The lore and legend of Gaelic Games has been shaped by great players. Since the Games began, special players have had a unique power to make the heart skip a beat. Now THE GAA IMMORTALS celebrates the achievements of 100 of the very bestfootballers, hurlers, managers, ladies footballers and camogie players from the start of the twentieth century to the present day.Based around exclusive interviews with a who’s who of Gaelic Games, THE GAA IMMORTALS covers all the codes, giving a unique insight into icons of the games, including Dick Fitzgerald, Mick Mackey, Christy Ring, Jack Lynch, Nicky Rackard, Mick O’Connell, Seán O’Neill, Eddie Keher, Jimmy Barry-Murphy, Angela Downey, Lulu Carroll, Nicky English, DJ Carey, Peter Canavan, Henry Shefflin, Gooch Cooper and Joe Canning.With stars from all 32 counties represented, THE GAA IMMORTALS is a fascinating account of the greatest heroes and legends of the games.

In its long and rich history the GAA has provided many great moments. This book is a celebration of one hundred of the best of them: the Thunder and Lightning Final; the Polo Grounds Final; Seamus Darby's goal in 1982; the epic clashes between Dublin and Meath in 1991; Leitrim's Connacht title in 1994; Clare ending 81 years in the wilderness; Wexford becoming home to `the Riverdance of Sport' and the GAA opening up Croke Park to other sports. These moments and many more are featured in these pages. Every county is included.Based on exclusive interviews as seen through the eyes of the key personalities who shaped them, it goes behind the scenes and offers unique eyewitness accounts of the dramas on and off the pitch that captivated, enthralled and occasionally infuriated the nation. New light is shed on old controversies, fresh insights into the players and personalities that linger long in the memory are provided, and the epic contests that turned the national games into the national soap opera are recounted by the men and women who were there in the heat of the battles.

Here are Irish Rugby''s most legendary, celebratory and brilliant moments from the 1940s to today.101 Great Irish Rugby Moments is a unique celebration of the sport''s most significant moments. Featuring:Munster''s historic win over the All BlacksUlster''s victory in the European CupConnacht winning the Pro 12Leinster''s unique European doubleThe national women''s team winning the Grand SlamIreland''s double defeat of the All Blacks . . .These epic moments are based on exclusive interviews with Mick Galwey, Ciaran Fitzgerald, David Humphreys, Brian O''Driscoll, Ronan O''Gara and many others from the great and good of Irish Rugby.Enjoy a host of brilliant anecdotes and remarkable insights into the controversies, epic matches, thrilling contests and pivotal events on and off the field which shaped these 101 GREAT IRISH RUGBY MOMENTS.''The legendary Mike Gibson, once eloquently wrote that "rugby is like love, it is a game of touch and of feel and of instinct". I have no doubt that John Scally has written this book with those same qualities of love, touch, feel and instinct. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.'' OLLIE CAMPBELL

Gaelic Games are the focus of endless debate and speculation, set the mood of Monday's post-match workplace and dominate pub-talk. For many of us, life and death run second to major GAA events. Blood, Sweat, Triumph & Tears looks back at some of the best moments from the sporting nation's favourite soap opera. It pays homage to the great players and people in Gaelic football, hurling, ladies' football and camogie. And it glories in the classic victories and thrilling contests witnessed down the decades. Based on exclusive interviews with the greatest personalities in the GAA's rich history, and covering every county in Ireland, here is a unique insight into the passion and politics, the controversies and crises, the wisdom and wit and all the highs and lows of Ireland's national treasure. Full of entertaining anecdotes, inspirational incidents and epic encounters, Blood, Sweat, Triumph & Tears truly captures the magic of the GAA. 'A book to shorten the long winter nights for any GAA fan.' DERMOT EARLEY, Kildare legend'Will bring back great memories for lovers of Gaelic Games.' KAROL MANNION

Fans always answer in the affirmative when their team asks: Will you still love me tomorrow? However, for many GAA fans it is their rivalries that guide them and define them. This unique book celebrates the age-old rivalries that have energised and enlivened the GAA.Based on exclusive interviews with a veritable Who's Who of the great and the good of Gaelic Games, here are remarkable insights into the controversies, epic matches and the thrilling events on and off the field which great GAA rivalries have generated.Full of arresting anecdotes that represent each county, these pages capture the extraordinary pride and passion of Ireland's greatest national treasures: Gaelic football, hurling, ladies football and camogie.John Scally is a lecturer in Trinity College, but in his spare time is a writer and broadcaster. Since 1992 he has written 40 books with cumulative sales of over 150,000 copies. He is the author of the biggest selling GAA book in Ireland, Raising the Banner:The Biography of Ger Loughnane, and for a few years his biography of Tony Ward was the biggest selling rugby book in Ireland.'Will bring back a treasure trove of great memories for GAA fans.'Cyril Farrell'There have been many rivalries through the decades and John Scally will navigate you through them as only he can, with great insight and knowledge and an unrivalled love for our native games.'Donal Ryan'Pulsates with the thrills and spills of epic contests, clashes and controversies. A must read book for GAA fans. It reminds us of who we are.'John O'Mahony

Fans always answer in the affirmative when their team asks: Will you still love me tomorrow? However, for many GAA fans it is their rivalries that guide them and define them. This unique book celebrates the age-old rivalries that have energised and enlivened the GAA.Based on exclusive interviews with a veritable Who''s Who of the great and the good of Gaelic Games, here are remarkable insights into the controversies, epic matches and the thrilling events on and off the field which great GAA rivalries have generated.Full of arresting anecdotes that represent each county, these pages capture the extraordinary pride and passion of Ireland''s greatest national treasures: Gaelic football, hurling, ladies football and camogie.John Scally is a lecturer in Trinity College, but in his spare time is a writer and broadcaster. Since 1992 he has written 40 books with cumulative sales of over 150,000 copies. He is the author of the biggest selling GAA book in Ireland, Raising the Banner:The Biography of Ger Loughnane, and for a few years his biography of Tony Ward was the biggest selling rugby book in Ireland.''Will bring back a treasure trove of great memories for GAA fans.''Cyril Farrell''There have been many rivalries through the decades and John Scally will navigate you through them as only he can, with great insight and knowledge and an unrivalled love for our native games.''Donal Ryan''Pulsates with the thrills and spills of epic contests, clashes and controversies. A must read book for GAA fans. It reminds us of who we are.''John O''Mahony

''I stood up. A miracle had happened. I could walk. It was as if I was born again.''With a heart full of prayer, Marion Carroll journeyed to Knock in the west of Ireland. For 17 years, Multiple Sclerosis had ravaged her body so utterly that this reluctant pilgrim travelled on a stretcher. Then, at the Mass, an unimaginable miracle. Marion rose, pain-free, to walk, talk and see once more.Thanks to this wondrous blessing, Marion has transformed - in her ''own small way'' - the lives of countless others. Her ministries share her rock-like faith and devotion to God. They testify to the power of ordinary people to listen, to care, to inspire.Nearly 30 years later, the Catholic Church officially recognised Marion''s cure as a proclaimed miracle. Here, with warmth, grace, humility - and down-to-earth Irish humour - she tells of her life ''before'' and ''after''. Marion''s powerful, uplifting story is unique. It shines a light on love, hope and a remarkable relationship with God.

Long before the terms ‘mindfulness’ and ‘well-being’ were coined, the Celtic tradition offered pathways to peace of mind and calm. For centuries it has created hope, unity and a community – a sanctuary of rest, renewal and reassurance. In these troubled times, the importance of connection, and a sanctuary, is stronger than ever.Drawing on the wisdom, stories, poetry, prayers and humour that are at the heart of the Celtic tradition, Inspiration for All Seasons reminds us of where we come from and brings comfort when it is badly needed. With contributions from individuals such as Peter McVerry and Mark Patrick Hederman, and a tribute to the late, great John O’Donohue, this book shines a light in the darkness.ALL ROYALTIES FROM THIS BOOK WILL GO TO THE PETER McVERRY TRUST

For over 130 years the GAA has been at the heart of Irish life. Now, in The People’s Games, John Scally tells the compelling stories of the men and women behind the rich history of Gaelic Games.Since the introduction of television Gaelic Games have become a huge entertainment industry, yet at their core remain deeply embedded in the local community. They shape the national conversation and lift the mood of the country. Hurling, ladies’ football, camogie and Gaelic football are Ireland’s greatest national treasures.Gaelic Games are part of the DNA of the Irish Race, and the people are the beating heart of the Games. This comprehensive collection captures the GAA’s evolving history, the fabled heroes, the controversies, the scandals, the pulsating games, the fans, the centrality of the clubs, and the unending and heart-stopping drama.Full of fascinating insights, amusing anecdotes, thrilling tales and new revelations about famous incidents and epic encounters, this volume brings the people’s games alive in all their vibrancy. Based on exclusive interviews, this captivating compendium explores the rich history of the men and women of the GAA who made it all happen.

Long before the terms ‘mindfulness’ and ‘well-being’ were coined, the Celtic tradition offered pathways to peace of mind and calm. For centuries it has created hope, unity and a community – a sanctuary of rest, renewal and reassurance. In these troubled times, the importance of connection, and a sanctuary, is stronger than ever.Drawing on the wisdom, stories, poetry, prayers and humour that are at the heart of the Celtic tradition, Inspiration for All Seasons reminds us of where we come from and brings comfort when it is badly needed. With contributions from individuals such as Peter McVerry and Mark Patrick Hederman, and a tribute to the late, great John O’Donohue, this book shines a light in the darkness.ALL ROYALTIES FROM THIS BOOK WILL GO TO THE PETER McVERRY TRUST

''It''s a funny old game.'' - JIMMY GREAVESFrom golden balls to golden balls-ups, this kit bag of double entendres, outrageous quips and quotes is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. A must for all Man Utd fans.''SIMPLY RED captures many of the laughs associated with Manchester United.'' - KEN DOHERTY''A must-read not just for United fans, but for every football fan out there!'' - SIMON DELANEY

'I stood up. A miracle had happened. I could walk. It was as if I was born again.'With a heart full of prayer, Marion Carroll journeyed to Knock in the west of Ireland. For 17 years, Multiple Sclerosis had ravaged her body so utterly that this reluctant pilgrim travelled on a stretcher. Then, at the Mass, an unimaginable miracle. Marion rose, pain-free, to walk, talk and see once more.Thanks to this wondrous blessing, Marion has transformed – in her 'own small way' – the lives of countless others. Her ministries share her rock-like faith and devotion to God. They testify to the power of ordinary people to listen, to care, to inspire.Nearly 30 years later, the Catholic Church officially recognised Marion's cure as a proclaimed miracle. Here, with warmth, grace, humility – and down-to-earth Irish humour – she tells of her life 'before' and 'after'. Marion's powerful, uplifting story is unique. It shines a light on love, hope and a remarkable relationship with God.

For over 130 years the GAA has been at the heart of Irish life. Now, in The People’s Games, John Scally tells the compelling stories of the men and women behind the rich history of Gaelic Games.Since the introduction of television Gaelic Games have become a huge entertainment industry, yet at their core remain deeply embedded in the local community. They shape the national conversation and lift the mood of the country. Hurling, ladies’ football, camogie and Gaelic football are Ireland’s greatest national treasures.Gaelic Games are part of the DNA of the Irish Race, and the people are the beating heart of the Games. This comprehensive collection captures the GAA’s evolving history, the fabled heroes, the controversies, the scandals, the pulsating games, the fans, the centrality of the clubs, and the unending and heart-stopping drama.Full of fascinating insights, amusing anecdotes, thrilling tales and new revelations about famous incidents and epic encounters, this volume brings the people’s games alive in all their vibrancy. Based on exclusive interviews, this captivating compendium explores the rich history of the men and women of the GAA who made it all happen.

'It's a funny old game.' - JIMMY GREAVESFrom golden balls to golden balls-ups, this kit bag of double entendres, outrageous quips and quotes is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. A must for all Man Utd fans.'SIMPLY RED captures many of the laughs associated with Manchester United.' - KEN DOHERTY'A must-read not just for United fans, but for every football fan out there!' - SIMON DELANEY

They are the chosen few who have drunk from the chalice of immortality. They are the men and women who have been part of the 101 GREAT GAA TEAMS.For GAA fans, our great teams bring colour and richness to our lives. When our team is on a winning streak it imbues us with a deep feeling of solidarity and a glow that uplifts the spirit. Great teams have that special power which energises and connects us. They inspire, make our hearts beat faster and let us dare to dream.All the great and the good are here: Jim Gavin''s Dublin; Brian Cody''s Kilkenny, Mick O''Dwyer''s Kerry; Christy Ring''s Cork; Seán Boylan''s Meath; Ger Loughnane''s Clare; Mickey Harte''s Tyrone; Nicky Rackard''s Wexford; Galway''s three-in-row; Liam Sheedy''s Tipperary; Mayo''s team of the 50s and many more. 101 GREAT GAA TEAMS is a fantastic tribute to the great teams in football, hurling, camogie and ladies'' football that have thrilled fans down the years.

They are the chosen few who have drunk from the chalice of immortality. They are the men and women who have been part of the 101 GREAT GAA TEAMS.For GAA fans, our great teams bring colour and richness to our lives. When our team is on a winning streak it imbues us with a deep feeling of solidarity and a glow that uplifts the spirit. Great teams have that special power which energises and connects us. They inspire, make our hearts beat faster and let us dare to dream.All the great and the good are here: Jim Gavin's Dublin; Brian Cody's Kilkenny, Mick O'Dwyer's Kerry; Christy Ring's Cork; Seán Boylan's Meath; Ger Loughnane's Clare; Mickey Harte's Tyrone; Nicky Rackard's Wexford; Galway's three-in-row; Liam Sheedy's Tipperary; Mayo's team of the 50s and many more. 101 GREAT GAA TEAMS is a fantastic tribute to the great teams in football, hurling, camogie and ladies' football that have thrilled fans down the years.'A book which captures the heart and soul of the GAA' - Kieran Donaghy'This book will evoke great memories for GAA fans' - Jackie Tyrrell'This book is a long overdue tribute to great GAA teams' - Anthony Daly

Irish rugby''s most hilarious and outrageous moments101 Funny Irish Rugby Moments is a collection of priceless anecdotes from the field, with interviews from Moss Keane, Mick Galwey, Peter Clohessy and plenty more, plus a foreword by the legendary Tony Ward.From Lansdowne Road to Thomond Park, from Connacht to Ulster and Leeside to the Lions, these are some of the most unexpected tales of Irish rugby legends, like when . . . - BRIAN O''DRISCOLL HOSTED A BOND GIRL - PAUL O''CONNELL MET PRINCE WILLIAM - RORY BEST TURNED INTO SLEEPING BEAUTY - AND JAMES LOWE MADE A STRANGE REQUEST OF THE GARDAÍThis book offers a unique glimpse into the funniest moments that have happened on and off the pitch with some of rugby''s greatest characters.

101 Great GAA Controversies is a collection of fascinating accounts from the field with appearances from some famous and infamous personalities, like Joe Brolly, Ger Loughnane, Pat Spillane and Babs Keating. With stories from the last 130 years, it is the major controversies that turn national games into our nationwide issues, often infuriating but never boring! Revealing insights into the Cork hurling strikes; Bloody Sunday; The Battle of Omagh; the Tony Keady affair; Louth''s lost Leinster final; Kerry''s undressing; the Sky Sports deal and of course the gripping events of the never to be forgotten hurling summer of 1998, this collection is bound to enthral all fans of Gaelic Games and might even settle a score or two. Including epic tales from Gaelic football, women''s football, camogie and hurling, this book is sure to entertain fans of every GAA sport and continue the lore of the Gaelic Games.

101 Great GAA Controversies is a collection of fascinating accounts from the field with appearances from some famous and infamous personalities, like Joe Brolly, Ger Loughnane, Pat Spillane and Babs Keating. With stories from the last 130 years, it is the major controversies that turn national games into our nationwide issues, often infuriating but never boring! Revealing insights into the Cork hurling strikes; Bloody Sunday; The Battle of Omagh; the Tony Keady affair; Louth's lost Leinster final; Kerry's undressing; the Sky Sports deal and of course the gripping events of the never to be forgotten hurling summer of 1998, this collection is bound to enthral all fans of Gaelic Games and might even settle a score or two. Including epic tales from Gaelic football, women's football, camogie and hurling, this book is sure to entertain fans of every GAA sport and continue the lore of the Gaelic Games.

Irish rugby's most hilarious and outrageous moments101 Funny Irish Rugby Moments is a collection of priceless anecdotes from the field, with interviews from Moss Keane, Mick Galwey, Peter Clohessy and plenty more, plus a foreword by the legendary Tony Ward.From Lansdowne Road to Thomond Park, from Connacht to Ulster and Leeside to the Lions, these are some of the most unexpected tales of Irish rugby legends, like when . . .- BRIAN O'DRISCOLL HOSTED A BOND GIRL- PAUL O'CONNELL MET PRINCE WILLIAM- RORY BEST TURNED INTO SLEEPING BEAUTY- AND JAMES LOWE MADE A STRANGE REQUEST OF THE GARDAÍThis book offers a unique glimpse into the funniest moments that have happened on and off the pitch with some of rugby's greatest characters.

This delightful book will be enjoyed and cherished by GAA fans old and young. - Dermot EarleyGaelic Games have a unique capacity to lift the spirits but they also have created many extraordinary moments. In the GAA world the truth is stranger than fiction and often funnier. This book celebrates the extraordinary moments in the GAA''s long and distinguished history. Representing all counties, it features Gaelic football, hurling, ladies'' football and camogie.Read about the star player who grabbed Ger Cunningham''s balls; Seán Boylan''s experience in the maternity ward; what happened when Pat Spillane took the DART; Ger Loughnane and the night life in Amsterdam; Paidí Ó''Sé and the tractor; the Galway icon who did not wear his socks; the Meath legend''s love affair; Clare''s sex scandal; the tender affection to a top pundit; the man who silenced Joe Brolly; the Dublin star who runs like a chicken; Garret Fitzgerald''s flirtation with hurling; Jack Lynch''s inspiration; and the GAA and Lady Diana.An uplifting must-read for all sports fans and lovers of Gaelic Games.

This delightful book will be enjoyed and cherished by GAA fans old and young. - Dermot EarleyGaelic Games have a unique capacity to lift the spirits but they also have created many extraordinary moments. In the GAA world the truth is stranger than fiction and often funnier. This book celebrates the extraordinary moments in the GAA's long and distinguished history. Representing all counties, it features Gaelic football, hurling, ladies' football and camogie.Read about the star player who grabbed Ger Cunningham's balls; Seán Boylan's experience in the maternity ward; what happened when Pat Spillane took the DART; Ger Loughnane and the night life in Amsterdam; Paidí Ó'Sé and the tractor; the Galway icon who did not wear his socks; the Meath legend's love affair; Clare's sex scandal; the tender affection to a top pundit; the man who silenced Joe Brolly; the Dublin star who runs like a chicken; Garret Fitzgerald's flirtation with hurling; Jack Lynch's inspiration; and the GAA and Lady Diana.An uplifting must-read for all sports fans and lovers of Gaelic Games.