Former Galway hurling captain David Collins is philosophical about missing out on winning an All-Ireland SHC with his county.
Having featured prominently for the Tribesmen since 2004, the Liam Mellows clubman lost three All-Ireland finals before retiring from intercounty duty in 2016 - a year short of last season's historic breakthrough. As Galway prepare for another decider this weekend, the 34-year-old tells The Irish Daily Star that he has no regrets over his decision to walk away:
"Obviously, if the legs were there, I'd be delighted. But no more. I was with the club all year. We had a great run out of it and got to the All-Ireland semi-final against Cuala, which just didn't go our way.
"But it was a different atmosphere, it was more enjoyable. There was less pressure on it. And I actually started going back and enjoying hurling and enjoying the craic with the boys.
"I had my chance over 13 years and didn't win it but what about it? I wouldn't be any different a person with an All-Ireland medal. It's a feat to get to a final and would be class to have won it, but what can you do?
"I heard a great line there: you'll invite the county lads to your wedding but it's the club lads that will carry you to the grave."
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