Dignity in victory proves Sheedy was right man for Tipp

WHEN Liam Sheedy was appointed Tipperary senior manager three years ago, the astute hurling hero, Donie Nealon said to me: “Seán, we have appointed a good one.”

Donie, as always was spot on. Sheedy has done a fantastic job in honing the skills of the Premier county players and building up a backroom team that worked tirelessly and selflessly to achieve All-Ireland glory.

Sheedy’s speech at their magnificent victory banquet in the Burlington Hotel was the first opportunity I had to observe the Tipperary manager closely. Victory speeches can often be bland affairs. Not so Sheedy’s. What was impressive was the manner in which he heaped praise on others – the players, the board, the supporters and sponsors.