Along Ireland’s small roads, All-Stars and pride sprinkled generously…

Dean Rock of Dublin scores his side's first goal during the All-Ireland final last year. Rock's award, alongside clubmates John Small and James McCarthy mean Ballymun Kickhams are the second most decorated club in the history of the awards. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Since the inception of the GAA All-Stars in 1971, 1,470 awards have been presented to worthy recipients across hurling and football as a recognition of their individual feats of brilliance. But behind each All-Star, there is a local parish, a local GAA club, and an army of volunteers who, in most instances, have helped mould their star player long before county colours were adorned.

The list of clubs that have produced the most All-Stars is striking, in that, for the most part, it’s the epitome of rural overachievement and that age-old adage, mighty oaks from little acorns grow.