From county pride to corporate drive

Balancing the demands of elite sport with a thriving professional career is no easy feat, but for David Quinn, Manager, Financial Management & Outsourcing and Cathal Sweeney, Associate, Audit & Assurance, two intercounty footballers now forging paths in the corporate world, it’s a challenge they’ve embraced with discipline and determination.

David Quinn: A new chapter beyond the pitch

After eight years representing Sligo at senior level, David made a pivotal decision in March 2025 to join Forvis Mazars Galway, the largest professional services firm in the Northwest. “I was coming to the end of my football career and wanted to prioritise my work,” he explains. For David, the transition felt natural. “When you’re playing intercounty football, you’re used to a high-performance environment. Professional services isn’t a physical job, so it complements training well. Your sporting career becomes an extension of your work career.”

Cathal Sweeney: Building careers on and off the field

Cathal’s journey began in 2018 with Galway minors, progressing to under-20 in 2019 and senior ranks by 2020. Today, he plays with Salthill-Knocknacarra while building his career in audit and life science at Forvis Mazars Galway office. “The firm has strong ties with the GAA and that connection matters,” he says. “It’s a place where people share common traits – teamwork, resilience and commitment. I’ve really enjoyed the last 18 months. Without a supportive firm, balancing both worlds wouldn’t be possible.”

Shared Values: Discipline, resilience and teamwork

Both men agree that lessons from the pitch translate seamlessly to the workplace. “In a team environment, you won’t get on with everyone, but when you’re working toward a common goal, differences are set aside,” says David. Cathal adds, “Constructive criticism is part of both football and work. Discipline and focus on what’s in your control help build resilience.”

Handling disappointment – whether missing selection or facing workplace setbacks – has shaped their mindset. “You learn to move forward,” David reflects. “Resilience is key.” Cathal echoes this: “Focus on what you can control, not what others think.”

The balancing act

A typical week for these athletes is relentless: gym sessions, training, match prep and a full work schedule. “Organisation is everything,” says David. “You juggle work, GAA and family – being fully present in each.” Cathal emphasises honesty with managers: “If you need flexibility, communication is vital.”

Downtime matters too. For Cathal, it’s walking the dog or swimming. For David, it’s a quiet coffee and reading the paper before a game.

Corporate support for grassroots GAA

Both players value Forvis Mazars’ commitment to local communities. “Seeing your firm sponsor GAA clubs makes you proud,” says David. “It’s about giving back and understanding the importance of the GAA.”

Looking ahead

In five years, David hopes to be retired from intercounty football but involved in management or administration, while continuing to progress within the firm.

Cathal envisions continued involvement with his club and career growth, earning respect from colleagues and teammates alike.

Memories and mantras

Cathal’s standout moment? Winning the Sigerson Cup in 2022.

For David, captaining his club Shamrock Gaels to a county championship after 33 years remains unforgettable.

Their advice to younger selves 

David: “Enjoy it.”

Cathal: “Stay in the present moment.”

One word 

David – TEAM.

Cathal – COMMUNITY.

Forvis Mazars is proud to be title sponsor of the Forvis Mazars Galway Senior Hurling Club Championship.