O'Neill first played Gaelic football to a high standard as a student at St Patrick's Academy in Dungannon.
[1] He later studied at the College of Technology in Belfast but declined an offer from Queen's University to line out with them in the Sigerson Cup.
By that stage O'Neill had begun his club career with Coalisland Na Fianna.
O'Neill's inter-county performances earned his inclusion on the Ulster inter-provincial team on 10 occasions.
O'Neill was also heavily involved in coaching and management at club level with Coalisland Na Fianna.
O'Neill was appointed co-selector for Ireland's successful three-game test against Australia in the 1986 International Rules Series.