Hurling Therapist Brains Barry-Murphy On Your Post-GAA Season PTSD

20th Jul 2026

With That Crowd winning the All-Ireland hurling final against the Other Crowd many Cork fans are back with their therapists this week or just rocking silently back in forth whilst repeating “But why did they keep going for goals?” or “Why did they keep pucking it down there when it wasn’t working”. We know, boy. It’s hard. 

That’s why we asked PROC psycho (therapist?) Brains Barry-Murphy to give you a few reasons to be cheerful:

1. You’re From Cork
Not even sure if this is a consolation prize, it’s actually be better than winning the All-Ireland and you never have to worry about it being taken away from you next year. Just look at anyone from Limerick. Are they really happy? They might be enjoying their win but google “Limerick” and console yourself. 

2. Sure, look at the weather 
Imagine if it was one of those summers where it literally never stops raining. If you’re feeling a bit PTSD-y from the championship off you go down to Youghal, Inchydoney or Garretstown or one of the dozen or so blue flag beaches on your door step. Non’a dem in Limerick is there? 

3. We DID win an All-Ireland This Year  
The Big Ball Smallies won Big Time beating Tyrone on a scoreline of 2-16 to 1-16 at Newbridge. Play this on repeat:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o37X2U-paus

4. The Camogie Is Still On
Cork take on Tipperary in the semi-final of the All-Ireland camogie championship next Saturday so there’s still a chance of some top silverware and a homecoming on South Mall.  

5. You’re From Cork
Isn’t it just pure daycint being Corkonian? Do a few downward dogs and a take a few deep breaths while imagining that you’re from Longford or Dublin. Feel better? Nice wan, kiid.  

6. Electric Is Back
Collectively it will us about 10-15 years to remember it has a new name, The Merchant, but it’s back open again so you can gat-on by the river and not be worried about the law taking your can. Add it to your summer bucket list to have at least one drink outside there before the summer ends. Tasty trad sessions on there too. 

7. Finn’s Korma
City favourite Nash 19 closed its doors in January 2024 and was replaced by the brilliantly named Nosh 19, a high-end Chinese restaurant that seems to partially slag it’s predecessor’s marble-mouthed South Mall clientele. 

Now, Indian restaurant chain Andhra Bhavan is set to open at Finn’s Corner and locals are praying the new owners have a sense of humour and rebrand it Finn’s Korma. If they’re dry-balls it’ll be class to see the high profile premises re-open after the sports store, Finn’s Corner, closed in 2020. 

8. We’re Gonna Win Da’League
Alright, it’s not THAT league but after a truly miserable time in the Premier Division in 2025 and a coming agonisingly close in the FAI Cup Final, Cork City are finally putting a stack of great performances together and stand 17 points clear of Bray Wanderers in the First Division at the time of writing. And the best bit is that the quality of the football is really enjoyable with Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher’s brother, Fiachra captaining the side. Adult tickets are only 15e and they often have promotions where kids go free.

Get tickets here.