Sean McComb planning to get a step ahead following Ulster return
Sean McComb was back on the Ulster scene at the weekend following years away.
The Holy Trinity light welter had declared previously that he would never enter the Ulster Seniors again – and thus be in contention for the Commonwealth Games – due to issues with the previous provincial council.
However, changes in personnel earlier this year enticed McComb to enter, and the Turf Lodge southpaw picked up the Ulster Elite Senior title on Friday and put himself top of the pile for consideration for the Commonwealths next year in Australia.
The rangey fighter defeated a spirited Caoimhin Ferguson of the Gleann club, and was keen to credit the youngster in the immediate aftermath.
“He’ll benefit massively from that,” said McComb.
“I was in the same position six years ago, fighting a six-time champion in Ryan Lindberg. I fell short at that point but gained massive experience from it, enjoyed the atmosphere.”
“Obviously heartbroken at the time but, I look back now on how it’s benefitted me, and that’s all ahead of Caoimhin Ferguson who is a very, very talented kid – and strong as well. I believe in the future he will come through as good as I have.”
McComb was in fine form following the win, and paid tribute to the new-look Ulster Council, stating “look around you, there’s been more done in the last six months than there was in the previous six years.”
“BBC showing it live, Ulster Hall, and a full entry of top talent. It just shows you that the change was well needed and it’s just unfortunate that the change didn’t happen any earlier.”
Attentions now turn to the Gold Coast in April, and McComb feels he deserves a spot on the squad.
The European Games bronze medalist explained how “the team that hasn’t been officially selected yet, I would be confident of being on the team, hopefully injury free. All going well, I’d be confident of being part of the team.”
“It’s a massive, massive stage to be on, something I’ve never experienced before, but I know with all my experience it’l bring me to, hopefully, gold.”
“John Conlan has the full plan from now until the Gold Coast. Before the team’s selected I’ll be training like I’m going, and hopefully I am selected, and I’ll be a step ahead of everyone else.”
McComb’s future in the sport is a constant topic of conversation. Currently not funded by the Irish Sports Council, there is regular talk of a move to the pro game.
The 25 year old admitted that “nothing’s decided yet. Gold at the Commonwealths could get me more funding which could get me to Tokyo, I’d like that. I might not even get to the Commonwealths, who knows?”
“We’ll stay positive and enjoy the win tonight.”
Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)
