Hurling and football stars excel in ‘handball showdown’

HANDBALL might well become a more regular staple of training for football and hurling teams in the coming year, if reactions to last Saturday’s GAA Handball Showdown at Croke Park are anything to go by.

Some of the biggest names in football, hurling, camogie, ladies football and rounders appeared from 20 counties to support the closing event of the GAA 125 celebrations, and with proceeds going to the Make A Wish-Foundation, the public turned up in droves to provide their support.

Kerry’s All-Ireland winning captain Darran O’Sullivan was joined by stars such as Justin McMahon (Tyrone), Donncha O’Connor (Cork), Joe Sheridan (Meath), Andy Moran (Mayo), hurler of the year, Tommy Walsh (Kilkenny) and Shane McGrath (Tipperary).