The Kieran Shannon Interview: A hurling bond that goes beyond borders

When Paddy Stapleton’s family were confronted with a crisis last autumn, he found he could call on old teammates — and some old adversaries — for support. He speaks about an unseen dimension to the Kilkenny-Tipperary rivalry, the Sheedy factor, as well as how his late sister Amanda continues to inspire him.

In his terrific book, Standing My Ground, Brendan Cummins wrote about the special bond a team which wins an All-Ireland shares for life. Even though they may not have spoken to one another in years, they could call upon each other in a time of need.