Kieran McGeeney may have been in charge of Armagh for the last decade, but there has been plenty of change within the group during that time period.
Not only has their playing squad developed with the addition of some top class talents, the coaching team around 'Geezer' has also evolved over time.
McGeeney has always been keen to have the best in class around him as he attempted to improve Armagh. Each season seemed to bring with it new additions, with Kieran Donaghy among the most impactful in recent times.
The Kerry legend has been part of the backroom team in the Orchard County for four years. He has played a massive role off the pitch during that time, with his impact during yesterday's All-Ireland final victory clear to see.
Lifting Sam Maguire was certainly quite the payoff for all the work he has put in during this period, even if it wasn't always easy.
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Kieran Donaghy Recalls 'Fall Outs' In Armagh Camp
Full commitment is a must for any member of the Armagh group, something that extends to their coaching team. Kieran Donaghy fulfilled his duties with the side while travelling up and down from his home county, quite the journey to be undertaking on a consistent basis.
Speaking after yesterday's final, he said that seeing the be crowned All-Ireland champions made it all worth it, despite some doubts and arguments along the way.
There’s been moments after tough training sessions when I’m pulling out of Callan Bridge (Armagh’s training base), when the meeting has gone on until quarter past 10 and I’m asking myself questions.
You’re hitting Newry and you’re thinking ‘Jesus Christ almighty – I’ve four hours ahead of me here! But no, they’re an unbelievable group. Really good lads to be around.
There’s a really strong bond there. It’s the culture Kieran [McGeeney] has created within the group and the team. And it’s hard. It’s not easy. We fall out, we make up. We challenge each other. He loves a challenge culture.
But it is…it is weird. It’s hard to…I said it after the Kerry game, it is hard to take it on board. But when you’ve done the driving that I’ve done the last four years, you end up fully invested in it.
And the bond that I’ve created with the players and the management team. I’m so happy for all them. I’ve had my days in the sun. I’m just delighted those fellas got their day.
It seems likely that Kieran Donaghy will make the move into inter-county management at some point in the future, with his experiences with Armagh likely to be a huge help whenever he does take that next step.
For now, he will be basking in the glory of the team's incredible achievements this season.
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