Mark Bergin: We're the lucky ones to represent O'Loughlin Gaels

An O’Loughlins win against St Thomas’ on Sunday will mean a clean sweep for Kilkenny clubs across the three levels, previously achieved in 2020.

CAPTAIN FANTASTIC: Mark Bergin of O'Loughlin Gaels, Kilkenny, pictured ahead of the AIB GAA Senior Club Championship Hurling All-Ireland Final. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

On paper, it’s not difficult to understand why Mark Bergin is captain of O’Loughlin Gaels.

Now 34 and their free-taker from what feels like the year dot, he is the only All-Ireland SHC inter-county winner in the team. Along with Stephen Murphy, he is also one of two survivors from the side that started the club’s last All-Ireland senior final appearance 13 years ago, a 12-point paddling against Clarinbridge.