The intercounty season is here, but it's not as we know it. Terraces will be empty, and grounds will be silent. There'll no packed Thurles, or Clones, or Dr. Hyde Park to get us riled up and give that unmistakable hum of "Championship."
For some, it'll be a rare experience to watch their county from afar. For others, it'll be a complete novelty. Among them will be Offaly superfan Mick McDonagh.
Mick McDonagh, if you haven't heard of him, is regarded by many as Ireland's greatest GAA fan and even has his own hashtag on twitter. Searching #offalydude will bring you back glorious results. Wind, rain, or shine, there's one man who's always remained faithful to the Faithful County.
Colm O'Rourke @simonstowngaels manager gives his post match reaction after defeat to @RhodeGAA #Offalydude as always supporting @Offaly_GAA pic.twitter.com/GRtqA8IgtU
— GAA 2022 (@GAA_2022_TG4) November 13, 2016
As a tribute to Mick on this year when he and the other superfans around the country sadly won't be able to attend the games, we thought it apt to have a run through of our six favourite sightings in recent years.
Ah ahh ahh ahh Stayin Alive, Stayin Alive
Celebrating a rare hurling win in recent years
After beating rival Laois
Organising the troops aginst London
Celebrating Offaly's win over Kerry in the hurling Championship
Going through the emotions as The Faithful County saw off Longford the Leinster Football Championship
Playing amateur umpire in the O'Byrne Cup
Tactical advice given at the Shinty international
If there was ever someone that made the neutral to want Offaly GAA to succeed, it's Mick. Hopefully there will be better times coming his way soon.