CONNOR McAliskey's fitness was a little behind schedule when the Tyrone panel returned to training in the new year, thanks to a 'sombrero' holiday before Christmas. He had to tone up on his own as he had put on a few pounds when soaking up the sun in Mexico.
Obviously he made a good job of the solo sessions as he proved the ideal 'super-sub' during the Dr McKenna Cup.
"I spent a couple of weeks in Mexico before Christmas so the fitness was a bit less than usual," the Clonoe rapid runner revealed. "Earlier last year, my girlfriend Anna (Millar) and I had a look at the football schedule and it wasn't until December that there was time to have a good break.
"We wanted to go somewhere that we would get some sun and it seemed that Mexico was a good bet. It certainly was enjoyable, 38 degrees, and I didn't mind having to do some extra work when I returned home to get back to fitness for the McKenna Cup."
Nor did he mind not being named in the first 15 for some games, as he proved when sent in to contribute handsomely to Tyrone's successful run as the Red Hands stormed to their fifth consecutive success in the season opener.
His contributions as he bounced off the bench not only earned him the hackneyed title of 'super sub' but also the Quinn Building Products UGAAWA Merit Award for January – the second time that he has collected the January honour after his McKenna Cup exploits.
The last time was for January 2013 before he had played either National League or Championship at senior level.
"I started one game in the recent McKenna Cup but I didn't mind not starting others. Mickey (Harte) had new boys in the panel and they had to be given some game-time. Everyone has got to get their chance. They had been working hard," said Connor.
He worked hard too to get back to ship-shape and showed his fitness level by roving far out from his attacking spot on occasions to help further back.
"That was just a case of helping out when some of the lads got a bit tired. With the heavy grounds at this time of year legs do get weary, and going in off the bench gave me an advantage," he recalled.
Winning the McKenna Cup has given Tyrone a head start on other counties, according to McAliskey. "Getting a trophy early gives the team a boost and it also helps the newer players to gain confidence. Winning our first two games in the National League has also given us a head start in that competition, so the year has begun well.
"Begun very well for me personally, too. I'm delighted to have won the Monthly Merit Award again as it launches the season on a high note for me. It is a very prestigious award and any player who wins it has got to be proud. I certainly am," Connor enthused.
Never, of course, is there a clear-cut winner and this time Connor had to survive a dead-heat with Fermanagh captain and midfield man Eoin Donnelly, with Monaghan's Dessie Mone a strong finisher too.
The presentation was made to Connor at a function in Quinn's Corner by former Fermanagh Allstar Marty McGrath, Quinn Products Area Manager.
The winner receives an engraved Belleek Living Vase, specially-designed silver cuff-links from Carlingford Design House, training gear from O'Neill's International Sports, and a medical kit bag from 3FiveTwo, on behalf of Kingsbridge Private Hospital. He will also receive two tickets and overnight accommodation for the next Quinn Building Products UGAAWA Banquet.
