In the age of streaming, you’d forget just how good terrestrial television can be.
But anyone who put on RTÉ One yesterday evening to watch When Michael Met Davy won’t be in any doubt as to the power of a simple story told well.
The documentary follows what happened when Davy Fitzgerald asked 11-year-old Michael O’Brien to give a motivational speech to the Wexford players ahead of a match.
Davy and Michael first met when the hurling manager surprised Michael, a massive GAA fan, as he appeared on the Late Late Toy Show last December to review braille books.
The pair managed to stay in touch and Michael showed no hesitation at Davy’s challenge.
In the end, the boy gave a rousing speech that would put any county manager out of a job.
“Little did I think I’d be here today standing in front of a county team but I’m here,” he told the team.
“Some people said I’d never be here but I’m here.
“There are two things you have to do – work and believe.”
It was a brilliant piece of television and if Twitter is anything to go by, there wasn’t a dry eye in the entire country after it.
Viewers commended Micheal, Davy and all of the people in the young man’s life.
Was blown away by the strength, courage and resilience shown by Michael in #WhenMichaelMetDavy last night. A young boy focusing on his passions and abilities as opposed to his challenges. Credit to his family and teachers. Davy Fitz is a real class act also. #WhenMichaelMetDavy
— David Saunders (@davidsaunders82) August 6, 2019
Only getting around to watching it now but Michael O’Brien is a man beyond his years. Faith in humanity restored. #WhenMichaelMetDavy
— Ryan O’Sullivan (@Ryan_sull_) August 6, 2019
#whenmichaelmetdavy one inspirational young man. “If you have a fear, be brave and just do it” Well done to #davyfitzgerald for asking him to come talk to the team. Family should be so so proud of him. #kerry
— Annie Dwyer (@anniedw84) August 6, 2019
From the primary school teachers, to his parents and the whole GAA community. This is why I love Ireland! #WhenMichaelMetDavy
— Patrick Donovan (@Paddy_Donovan) August 6, 2019
When Michael Met Davy is available to stream on the RTÉ Player now.
