Kilkenny gets special honour

Dublin dual ace Ciarán Kilkenny has created a notable piece of history by being honoured with life membership of his club Castleknock prior to his departure to Australia.

The 19-year-old, who started in Dublin ’s All-Ireland football semi-final loss to Mayo in September, flies out to Melbourne on Thursday to link up with Aussie Rules outfit Hawthorn on a two-year international rookie contract.

Kilkenny received the club honour just a few hours after playing a huge part in helping Castleknock qualify for the final of the Leinster Club Junior Football Championship final, as a result of Sunday’s semi-final 3-9 to 1-3 win over Meath junior champions Ratoath, at Ratoath.