Offaly and Laois dominate Joe McDonagh Cup team of the year

There are also winners from Kerry, Westmeath and Down.

Wed, 09 Oct, 2024 - 12:08

Examiner Sport

Finalists Offaly and Laois have six players each on this year's Joe McDonagh Cup team of the year.

Offaly overcame their neighbours by 2-23 to 0-26 in an entertaining final at Croke Park in June.

Defenders Ciarán Burke, Ben Conneely and Cillian Kiely, along with attackers Killian Sampson, Charlie Mitchell and Brian Duignan have been selected.

Laois keeper Enda Rowland leads their winners, with Diarmuid Conway, Pádraig Delaney, Paddy Purcell, Aidan Corby and Aaron Dunphy also honoured.

Kerry star Fionán Mackessy, now playing for O'Loughlin Gaels in Kilkenny, is also named in the side, with Westmeath's Killian Doyle and Down's Daithí Sands the other winners.

GAA President Jarlath Burns said: “This team is a who’s who of hurling stars who have been leading lights for their county teams this season and in many cases for several seasons, and I know that this recognition for their contribution to a memorable Joe McDonagh Cup campaign will be proudly welcomed by their families and clubs.”

Gaelic Players Association CEO Tom Parsons said: “To the players selected, I want to send heartiest congratulations. Your performances during what was a very exciting Joe McDonagh Cup championship stood out and have been recognised by your fellow players who voted for a longlist, that was then whittled down by the selection committee. You’ve been acknowledged therefore by both your peers and an expert panel.

“I hope that you and all hurling people in Laois, Offaly, Kerry, Westmeath and Down take great pride in your selection to this team. Finally, thank you to the selectors under the chairmanship of Pat Daly.”

The Joe McDonagh Cup Team of the Year will be guests of honour at a gala black-tie event hosted at Croke Park this Friday night which will also honour the Champion 15 team announced Tuesday and the Tailteann Cup Team of the Year which will be announced on Thursday.

Joe McDonagh Cup Team of the Year 2024

1. Enda Rowland (Laois)

2. Diarmuid Conway (Laois)

3. Ciarán Burke (Offaly)

4. Ben Conneely (Offaly)

5. Pádraig Delaney (Laois)

6. Cillian Kiely (Offaly)

7. Fionán Mackessy (Kerry)

8. Paddy Purcell (Laois)

9. Aidan Corby (Laois)

10. Aaron Dunphy (Laois)

11. Killian Doyle (Westmeath)