Larkin and Cavanagh pick up GPA awards

Eoin Larkin of Kilkenny and Tyrone's Seán Cavanagh have been announced as the Opel Gaelic Players of the Year for hurling and football for 2008 by the Gaelic Players Association.

Fri, 07 Nov, 2008 - 18:07

Eoin Larkin of Kilkenny and Tyrone's Seán Cavanagh have been announced as the Opel Gaelic Players of the Year for hurling and football for 2008 by the Gaelic Players Association.

Larkin and Cavanagh won the accolades following a vote by the GPA membership at the GPA’s Annual Gala and Awards Evening at the Citywest Hotel.

Due to their outstanding performances throughout the GAA season, both players will receive a brand new Opel Astra worth approximately €25,000.

Dessie Farrell, Chief Executive of the Gaelic Players' Association said: "Congratulations to Eoin and Seán who have received a ringing endorsement from their fellow players for their displays this year. Both men contributed enormously to their respective county’s campaigns and were stand-out figures despite the stiff competition.

"Their pursuit of excellence as players was evident throughout the summer but, as always, they were part of a collective effort and we must acknowledge the role of the team when honouring the contribution of the individual. Sincere thanks to Opel for their commitment to players in 2008 and thanks to all the GPA members who voted for our award winners."

The Opel Gaelic Teams of the year for hurling and football were named in October and November, with each player on the team receiving €2,500, making the total value of prizes given out on the night worth approximately €125,000.

The 2008 Opel Gaelic team of the Year for Hurling:

1. Brendan Cummins (Tipperary)

2. Michael Kavanagh (Kilkenny)

3. Noel Hickey (Kilkenny)

4. Jackie Tyrell (Kilkenny)

5. Tommy Walsh (Kilkenny)

6. Conor O’Mahony (Tipperary)

7. JJ Delaney (Kilkenny)

8. Shane McGrath (Tipperary) &9 James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick (Kilkenny)

10. Ben O’Connor (Cork)

11. Henry Shefflin (Kilkenny)

12. Eoin Larkin (Kilkenny)