Late-comer CJ Hamilton making the most of his chance

From playing hurling with Austin Gleeson to getting a call-up with Ireland, all is fulfilling the prophetic words of CJ Hamilton's grandfather

Republic of Ireland Press Conference, FAI HQ, Abbotstown, Dublin 6/6/2022. CJ Hamilton. ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy

When his Grandad Dixie O’Keefe was buying his first boots and driving him around Waterford to matches, CJ Hamilton didn’t believe his prophetic words about Ireland honours.

Outside observers beyond his Grandad had spotted the raw material too, including the Hunt brothers Stephen and Noel Hunt from near his village of Clonea Power on the Tipperary border, but there was a well-worn path to be followed first.