‘They'll humble you straight away’ – Billy Ryan on teaching, hurling and ambition

The 28-year-old works in St Patrick's De La Salle, where Brian Cody was once a principal. 

HANDS ON: Billy Ryan of Kilkenny poses for a portrait with the Liam MacCarthy Cup during the national launch of the All-Ireland Senior Championship Series at Kinnity Castle in Offaly. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

The ambition of Kilkenny hurling means provincial silverware is little more than a stepping stone. For Billy Ryan, the ultimate ambition stays the same. Six Leinsters in a row won’t satisfy their hunger.

"Look, every year when you set out your stall with Kilkenny and you're training, the ultimate goal is to win an All-Ireland,” he said.