
Longford's Ross McNerney: 'My whole life before Amble was GAA'
Before the folk trio were performing in major arenas as musicians, McNerney was on the pitches of Croke Park, competing in the Leinster championship.
He would leave county football in 2016, followed by a departure from his local club in 2017 to focus on his music – as part of his previous band, Brave Giant.
'I played at senior county level for Longford,' McNerney said. 'Growing up, football was number one and music second, but then it flipped.'
Fellow Amble member Robbie Cunningham agreed with the sentiment, having played for his home county of Leitrim.
'Right up until two years ago when we met, I was playing football at home in Leitrim,' Cunningham added. 'No one in the team knew I sang or played guitar – but then all of a sudden I was in this band called Amble and gigging in Whelan's and the Risn Dubh.'
Now fully dedicated to Amble, McNerney revealed his excitement at finding some of his sporting heroes were fans of their music.
'My whole life before Amble was sport, so finding out that rugby guys like Jordie Barrett, Robbie Henshaw and James Lowe are fans is massive,' he said.
Check out the full interview with all three Amble members in this month's issue of Hot Press .

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Irish Independent
34 minutes ago
- Irish Independent
Singer Moncrieff on backing Adele, a shout-out from Elton John and how tragedy shaped his music
The Waterford man's ten-year musical journey hasn't been without its challenges and frustrations, but has taken him around the world, given him the chance to support Adele on stage, and produce an Irish number one album with his talent catching the attention of Elton John. Now he's returning to the South East to perform in a headline show on the Live at Breakwater stage, alongside Gavin James, Amble, The Waterboys and The Whistlin' Donkeys. He's come a long way since dropping out of law school after his first year. The singer is a hurling fan and jokes, 'the one thing Wexford and Waterford people have in common is a bit of disdain for Kilkenny'. And he knows that this is a pretty reliable place to start when warming up the audience up ahead of an epic show. Moncrieff came to music later in life, and since 2017 he's been living in London. 'I felt I wasn't very good, so I think London offered a steeper learning curve and a place to throw myself into. If I had stayed at home or in Ireland, I probably wouldn't have gotten there, because I just had too many home comforts.' As a young man and the youngest child of the family, Moncrieff lost his brother Hugh and sister Laura to Cystic Fibrosis. These tragedies have naturally had a profound influence on his life and music. 'I think it changed everything about me. My brother and my sister helped shape my life. I was 15 when my sister passed away and 18 when my brother passed away. I started making music properly, the year after my brother passed. 'There was just a bunch of emotions that could have overwhelmed me. Music saved me in that regard and helped me put words on emotions that were too big to talk about that point in my life.' Apart from being driven by the challenge, London, a city of millions was an environment where it was 'easier to fail… London offered a blank slate, and nobody knows who you are. There's no real expectation, because nobody gives a shit about you'. When he first moved over at 19 years of age, Moncrieff was doing that Irish thing of apologising to people who bumped into him, thanking the bus drivers and starting conversations with random people over a pint. 'London can be a very unfriendly and lonely place, and I'm not sure I would have went if it wasn't for music,' he said. However, if he hadn't made the move perhaps Chris would have never become Moncrieff. London calling: A blank slate for success 'It's a long story. When I first moved over, I went to this open mic night in East London. I put my name on a list and waited to go on. The first person came on and they were fucking incredible, I thought 'I'm not cut out for this'. When I went up, I sang a song that was dedicated to my brother and sister. 'A random guy, a good bit older than me came up to me afterwards and bought me a pint. When I was talking to him, it felt like the universe was talking to me through this guy. He tried to give me 20 quid for a cab home, and then I did the Mrs. Doyle thing saying 'Ah no, you're grand'… But that guy's name was William Scott Moncrieff.' For the first time, the singer believed that he hadn't lost his mind chasing a dream and was on the right track. Catching Elton John's attention In 2017, Elton John, who has sold more than 300 million records worldwide, featured Moncrieff's song Symptoms on his Rocket Hour Show on Beats 1 Radio. 'It was very surreal. It was early on in my career and when it got the email, I thought, 'wait a minute, the Elton John?'. It definitely spurred me on.' His route to becoming a back up singer for Adele is even more peculiar. 'The music scene in London is smaller than you think. I was trying to write music, going to open mics and working in a restaurant. I made some mates and one of them just sent a message when I was getting a ferry from Fishguard to Rosslare because I had no money for a plane and he said, 'hey man, what's your availability like next week for an Adele gig'. F**k me, man, it was mental.' Breakwater homecoming Moncrieff's Breakwater gig is going to feel like a 'homecoming' for him. 'There'll be so many people from home there and it's going to be incredibly special.' For anybody walking through the streets of Wexford during the Fleadh, they will encounter exceptional street performers, buskers, and musicians young and old holding audiences captivated in impromptu gigs. Moncrieff has been on that journey. What Live at Breakwater is about is providing the opportunity that artists like him deserve to jump on a large and formidable stage and celebrate their talent. 'It's really cool to be able to share the stage with people that I know throughout the course of my life. This feels like a massive gig. I think it's going to be the biggest show I've ever done. 'I haven't done a hometown show in Waterford, so this is the closest thing. It's going to be f**king special, I'm putting everything into these shows to make it a memorable experience for the fans.' Music is a serious business for Moncrieff, but coming back to the South East means immersing himself into the craic. 'There was a couple of things, I was told I need to try. Where can I find the best spice bag? And somebody mentioned something about a rissole.'


The Irish Sun
16 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
12 of the best Irish family days out this August bank holiday weekend with FREE entry for kids
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Advertisement This much-loved free community event will once again transform the 4 Pirates of Parliament Street will run on both Saturday and Sunday Visitors are promised live performances by pirate actors, lively music from a DJ, face painting, balloon modelling, a pirate craft station, games, photo opportunities, and much more. Perfect for families, this vibrant celebration is designed to spark creativity and is completely free for families to attend. The event runs on Saturday August 2 and Sunday August 3 from 12pm to 4pm daily. Advertisement DUBLIN CITY CENTRE: TEMPLE BAR FOOD AND CRAFT MARKETS Also on the southside of the city, the Temple Bar Square Craft and Food Market returns this weekend. The open-air food market will be operational on Saturday August 2 from 9.30am until 3.30pm. Held in Meeting House Square, punters can pick up fresh, locally-sourced produce from Irish growers, artisan cheeses, breads, and cured meats, global street food and gourmet bites, craft coffee, refreshing juices, and irresistible sweet treats - all in a lively and welcoming setting And it could be your last chance to catch the food market this summer, as further dates haven't yet been announced. The Temple Bar Square Craft Market will also be held on Saturday, running from 12pm to 6pm, also completely free for families. Advertisement DUBLIN CITY CENTRE: STYLE IN THE CITY Turn your weekend walk into a runway as Dublin city will be transformed into the ultimate fashion playground on Saturday. Whether you're a trendsetter, a casual browser, or simply enjoy soaking up the vibrant city buzz, this free event promises fashion, fun, and flair like never before on Grafton Street from 1pm to 5pm. Fashionable families can expect live fashion shows featuring everything from local boutiques to high-street favourites and rising Irish designers. There will also be interactive hair and beauty demos, pop-up shops showcasing unique finds, stylist spotlights to inspire your summer wardrobe, and live DJ sets to keep the energy high. With free entry, a family-friendly atmosphere, and activities for all ages, Style in the City is the perfect way to add a dash of glamour to your weekend. Advertisement GALWAY: GALWAY RACES The iconic And while it might seem the big races are all boxed off, the weekend is the perfect time for families to hit Ballybrit. Under-12s go free when accompanied by their parents on a €30 ticket. Saturday's racing gets underway just after 2pm with the final race of the day at 6.05pm. And Sunday is the Mad Hatter's Family Fun Day with family admission tickets still on sale for a special advance price of €42.50 or single adult tickets for €30 on the day, with kids again going free with their parents. Advertisement Along with eight races running between 1.50pm and 5.30pm, there's also 25 kids' activities including magic shows, inflatable games, penalty shoot-outs, face painting, a family photobooth, teacup rides, a miniature train and much more. WICKLOW: BRAY AIR DISPLAY Returning for another year, the Bray Air Display takes place this Saturday along the town's seafront in This free aerial spectacle features the Irish Air Corps, the RAF Red Arrows, parachutists and vintage aircraft in action. Ground entertainment includes food vendors, a funfair, live DJs and military exhibitions. Public transport and park-and-ride options are recommended due to limited parking - with organisers issuing a Advertisement Flying displays run between 3pm and 6pm, but early arrival is strongly advised. Punters were warned: "Please be aware that the event is expected to attract a large volume of traffic on the road network and via public transport so you will have to increase the journey times." WATERFORD: SPRAOI The iconic Spraoi runs until Sunday August 3 with over 200 free performances across Waterford city. The city-wide street arts festival includes international performers, parades, music stages and circus acts. This year's theme is Urban Jungle, with immersive installations and a Saturday night fire show on the Quay. Advertisement Street food vendors and art installations are available daily from 12 noon, while performances take place throughout the city centre - with no booking required. The Spraoi Parade on Sunday evening is a major highlight, starting at 9.30pm and followed by fireworks. WATERFORD: LIVE AT THE BREAKWATER FESTIVAL Also in The Headline acts this weekend include Gavin James who plays on Saturday night, with adult tickets priced at €39 and kids under 14 going free on an adult ticket. Advertisement DONEGAL: GLENCOLMCILLE AGRICULTURAL SHOW Held on Sunday August 3, this traditional country show will take place in Glencolmcille, Co Attendees can expect livestock judging, horse showing, home baking competitions and local produce markets. Children's activities, live music and heritage displays also form part of the event. The showground is located near the Folk Village and is open from 11am. Admission is paid at the gate, with under-12s going free. Advertisement WEXFORD: FLEADH CHEOIL NA HÉIREANN The Fleadh kicks off on Sunday August 3 in This is the first day of a week-long celebration of traditional Irish music, dance and storytelling. Workshops, youth events and exhibitions begin on Monday morning while street sessions and performances are expected across the town from midday. And in the evening, While most events are free, some shows require advance booking with tickets available on Eventbrite. Advertisement WESTMEATH: ATHLONE RIVER FESTIVAL Taking place across the bank holiday weekend, the Athlone River Festival in Events include Viking boat tours, kayaking, jet ski demos and a river parade. Live music, food stalls and family activities take place in the town centre and along the quay throughout the weekend. Admission is free for most activities, with some water activities requiring tickets. WHERE CAN KIDS EAT FOR FREE? Milano - This restaurant has branches in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick. Kids get a free Piccolo meal including pizza or pasta, dessert and a drink every day when an adult orders a main. M&S Café - these cafes are located in M&S stores nationwide, including Grafton Street and Dundrum in Dublin. And children receive a free Kids Munch Menu with any adult spend over €7 during the school holidays. Freshii - This is another top spot operates in multiple locations such as Dublin city centre and Dundrum Town Centre. Under-12s get a free meal when an adult buys a burrito, bowl, wrap, salad or soup during school holiday periods. Bay - Located in Clontarf, Dublin 3, right along the seafront. Every Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm, kids eat free with each adult main course ordered. Wrights Café Bar - Based in Swords, Co. Dublin, near the Pavilions Shopping Centre. On Sundays, children can get a free meal when accompanied by an adult ordering from the main menu. Tony Roma's - Located on Great Victoria Street in Belfast city centre. Every Sunday from 12 noon, kids eat free with every adult entrée ordered. Greens Pizza - Found near Queen's University on Lisburn Road in Belfast. On Wednesdays from 5pm to 7 pm, children receive a free meal with any adult dinner DUBLIN: ALL-IRELAND LADIES FOOTBALL FINALS On Sunday August 3, Advertisement This is one of the largest women's sporting events in the country, drawing over 50,000 spectators annually. The triple-header begins in the morning and runs into the late afternoon, with the senior final scheduled for 4.15pm. This year's senior final features Dublin vs Meath in a hotly anticipated rematch. Tickets are still available from DUBLIN: NATIONAL SENIOR ATHLETICS FESTIVAL Ireland's top track and field athletes will compete across two days - starting this Saturday August 2 and finishing Sunday at Morton Stadium in Advertisement Events include sprints, hurdles, relays, shot put, long jump and high jump with national titles on the line. Sharlene Mawdsley, Kate O'Connor and Israel Olatunde are all The event is open to spectators, with single day tickets for €15, two-day tickets for €25 and kids under 16 going completely FREE. 4 The All-Ireland Ladies football final will take place this Sunday Credit: Sports File


The Irish Sun
20 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Tipperary star uses Liam MacCarthy Cup as wedding gift for lucky couple – sparking Tipp, Tipp chants
TIPPERARY goalkeeper Rhys Shelly served as a suitably safe pair of hands while using the Liam MacCarthy trophy as a novelty wedding gift. The hilarious scene unfolded at the Talbot Hotel in Clonmel. Advertisement 3 Shelly made his own entrance to maximise the spectacle Credit: @talbothotelclonmel 3 The happy couple got to raise the trophy into the air Credit: @talbothotelclonmel 3 The 24-year-old became the first goalkeeper to ever score from play in an All-Ireland hurling final The staff shared the raucous reception Shelly and the Cup received on the hotel's It was then further shared by sports writer Stephen Gleeson. While doing so, he remarked: "Tipperary hurling keeper Rhys Shelly is some all-rounder this week. "Makes a key point blank save against Thurles Sarsfields, saves a penalty against John McGrath, will play in a Mid-Tipp final on Sunday & finds time to bring the Liam MacCarthy Cup to a wedding in Clonmel." The quintessentially Irish moment was added to by not only the presence of Tipp flags in the background but also The Sunday Game theme tune blaring in the background. Advertisement Read More On GAA While last week saw everyone's social media feed filled with blue and gold celebrations, the past few days have witnessed an avalanche of green and gold joy after Monday's initial homecoming Dingle was the setting for Tuesday's shindig. Paul Geaney owns a pub in the coastal town and The now three-time All-Ireland winner hailed: "We're out in Dingle tonight. A few weeks ago David asked ye all to come out and back and ye did." Advertisement Most read in GAA Hurling As the camera panned over the whole street, the 34-year-old went on to compare it to New Year's Eve such was the turn-out. He added: "This is unbelievable to be a part of. It's probably the best we've ever seen for Kerry. I'm emotional but we're enjoying every minute of it." Kerry GAA star leads All-Ireland homecoming celebrations from HIS pub in front of huge street parade The instance he referenced about talisman Looking ahead to returning to Advertisement "I'm not sure they realise the impact they can have on us in Croke Park. "When we hear that Kerry crowd behind you it's worth five and six points to you in a game.' So it proved as while That improved connection was evident in further wins against Ulster opposition. Advertisement The question mark hanging over their 2026 tilt for number 40 is whether boss Jack 0'Connor